Hernando Beach report = Bulldog Fishin Charters

Capt. Keith Tomlinson
October 22, 2012
Hernando Beach - Saltwater Fishing Report

We had some great weather the past week. The start of this Fall weather has migratory species like mackerel and cobia on the move and feeding off Hernando beach.
If you have a honey hole that holds a lot of bait then take the time to run there and load up. Set up at your spot and chum these guys right to the boat. Usually you will have enough bait for the day with just a few throws of the cast net. Having a good supply of white bait is always a good thing, and chumming the water with these guys can really get the bite going.
One species that has arrived in good numbers to our area is Spanish mackerel. You can find these guy from 2 - 12 ft of water right now. There are many tactics anglers use to catch these guys. Trolling spoons, setting up near structure, or just drifting an area are all good tactics. No matter what technique I use, I always have some light steel leader ready to tie on if these toothy critters start cutting the line. I usually start with a 30 lb fluorocarbon leader with a 2/0 XXL long shank hook and switch to the wire if the fish keep cutting my clients line. One of the best baits for these macks is the white bait I mentioned above.
A chum block deployed up current from a rock pile or shallow wreck is another good tactic to use to get species like trout, mackerel, jacks, blue fish, and cobia to bend a rod. These predator fish will stay in the area and feed on the small bait fish holding in the chum slick. Keep a heavier spinning outfit ready to cast a lively bait in case a big cobia shows up. Cobia will often show up in pairs so take your time and make a good cast to the bigger one or have two rods ready to double up.

Good luck out there and tight lines!

Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581

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