Miami, Florida - Offshore

Capt. Mark Houghtaling
February 28, 2000
Miami - Saltwater Fishing Report

Dolphin keep sneaking into our area, giving anglers a preview of what to expect in the upcoming months. The Dolphin have been mostly schoolies running anywhere from 3 to 8 pounds. Look for an edge or color change just beyond the reef. They have been cruising this edge in search of something to eat. Most of the action has been during the morning hours. Anglers fishing further to the south have been finding more fish. The area of the Whistle Buoy off north Key Largo was great this past week for Dolphin.

Sailfishing has been good, when the seas have been on the rougher side. Anglers fishing the Bob Lewis Sailfish Tournament last week enjoyed great Sailfishing during the first day when the seas were a bit choppy. On the second day the action slowed, mostly due to flat seas and no wind to effectively fly kites. There were many small Sailfish caught in the 15 to 20 pound class. The best area was from Fowey Light north to Government Cut.

Cobia have been making a move offshore. A few large fish were brought to the dock during the tournament. Anglers have been catching them in their spread of kite baits. If you happen to hook a large Cobia, get ready for for a "butt" kickin' when you stick him with the gaff. Cobia are notorious for going wild when they feel the point of the gaff. Many anglers have been hurt and tackle has been broken when they are brought aboard the boat. The best technique is to gaff in one swift motion. Bring him over the gunwales and throw him right into an open fish box, and slam the lid shut.

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