Hernando Beach- Goin for sheepies
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
February 10, 2011
Hernando Beach - Saltwater Fishing Report
It is Febuary, and that means trout season is closed. This closure combined with the grouper closure causes anglers to search for other options. One species I like to target in Febuary is the sheepshead. "Sheepies" can be found close inshore in the brackish zones of estuaries and on near shore structure like reefs and wrecks . They use their flat long teeth to eat crustations and to scrap barnacles from rocks and pilings.
Anglers should look for the "convict fish" along irregular bottom, sea walls, oyster bars, wrecks, reefs and structure not too far from shore. Getting these guys on the hook can be a challenge at times.Some say it's best to "strike before they bite". Since that's not possible, I recommend heavily chumming an area with shrimp or bits of shellfish. OR If you are fishing bridge supports you can scrape the barnacle from the pylons which usually gets them feeding.
I prefer to use light spinning tackle with 15lb braided line. The braid allows anglers to feel the lightest tap. Attach a 20 -30 lb leader (3-4 ft - mono or flouro) to a 1/0 - 2/0 j hook. Tip - If there is a lot of structure I use light weight and a lighter gauged hooks so it will flex if it snags the structure. this prevents break offs and if the hook comes up bent, just use your pliers to repair the hook.
Go with bait since sheepshead do not readily take artificial lures. They are best fished for with live bait or cut natural baits. These include crab, shrimp(halved), mussels, clams, cut bait, squid and boiled sand fleas.
Be very careful when handling the "convict fish", because of their strong and sharp spines on dorsal and anal fins. These spines will draw blood with the slightest touch.
Good luck out there and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581
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