Captain's Corner

Steve Papen, Times Correspondent
In Print: Monday, September 29, 2008

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What's hot: The fall season means shorter runs to the fishing grounds. Grouper usually takes center stage, but many overlook the abundance of snapper that invades area waters with the grouper migration.

Species: Mangrove snapper will move inshore from their deepwater summer haunts to depths of 60-80 feet and take up residence on most wrecks and smaller ledges. Bait up with cut sardines, but a well full of live sardines or large horse minnows will get better results. Yellowtail snapper will also make the move into the shallower waters. They are much more common in South Florida waters, but if you have the patience you can target them the next couple of months at 80-110 feet. Larger structures such as wrecks and large breaks will be the target areas. Anchoring upcurrent and deploying a slow and steady chum slick will work best. Baits of choice include glass minnows and medium-sized live shrimp.

Other targets: Chum blocks to lure snapper off the bottom should also draw the attention of any pelagics in the area. We will usually deploy free-lined live baits off of transom while snapper fishing in case king mackerel, cobia or blackfin tuna are in the area.

Steve Papen charters out of Indian Shores and can be reached at fintasticinc.com or (727) 642-3411.

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