Opportunity Fish
Capt. Joel Gant
March 8, 2015
Hernando Beach - Saltwater Fishing Report
I would like to talk about what I call "Opportunity Fish". For example; when I'm targeting redfish or trout and I'm moving to and from my flats spots, I come across an opportunity fish. What is an opportunity fish? This may be a cobia, shark, jack, snook or a school of mackerel or bluefish working a bait pod. On a recent charter off of Homosassa, I saw in the distance what we call "rain" on the surface; this is when small baitfish like glass minnows or white bait are making the surface of the water look like it's raining. This can be from them just moving around and or a predator fish stalking them. I slowed the boat down and already had a small spoon rigged up. I threw it just beyond the "rain" and pulled it through. On the first cast I hooked up with a Spanish mackerel. What I recommend for this type of fishing is to always try to read the water. Many times the water will tell a lot. Look for nervous water, which can be just a small difference in the ripple of the water to a big ripple or birds diving or "rain" on the surface or a school of jacks busting the surface. Also, try to always have a rod setup with a spoon or my favorite, a jig with a soft plastic lure or a Gulp. It seems that almost all opportunity fish will hit a jig! This type of fishing can turn a slow day on the water to a very exciting day.
With great fishing in March, April should be an exciting month. The cold fronts should be pretty much over. Many species will be on the move this month. Find the redfish and trout in the skinny grass flats. They should be from 2 to 6 feet of water. Anything from top water, crank baits to jigs can entice a hard fight. Look for the Spanish mackerel to school up on the white bait. Try to match the hatch with a ¼ ounce jig and Zoom jerk bait. Don't be afraid to work the bait fast, the macks like a fast moving bait. Don't forget the tarpon will be around. When fishing for tarpon, be very considerate of the other boats; please don't go on a plane thru the middle of them. The guides up around Chaz are working for their clients. When you see a lot of boats in the area, slow down and idle in.
Get out there on the water and make some memories with friends and family!
Capt. Joel Gant operates Fishdaddy Charters out of Hernando Beach, he knows the local waters like the back of his hand, and works both inshore and offshore trips. Check him out on face book or you can reach him at (352) 279-1615 or visit his website, www.fishdaddycharter.com
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