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Snapper: They continue to be the focus on many offshore trips. Mangrove and yellowtails are feeding best in 70-100 feet. Longer leaders and lighter line are the keys. I usually like to explore the water column to see where the larger fish are feeding because they are not always on the bottom. Snapper, when in a frenzy, have been known to surface in depths of 180 feet or more if the chum line is strong enough.
Amberjack: They are on the slow side inside of 40 miles. But if you are willing to make the run, you will find them stacked up on the larger pentacles in the elbow. These fish will devour almost any live bait, but blue runners will produce the best. I prefer to fish these baits with no lead and a single hook. While over the structure, pitch the runner downtide of the boat, ensuring the bait does not swim under the boat for protection. Let the bait swim naturally by keeping slack in the line. The runner will swim toward the bottom and should find the jacks on the way down. The elbow is known for larger jacks, some more than 100 pounds. A 100-pound main line and leader will get the job done.
Grouper: They also are on the slow side and are scattered in all depths. Hard-bottom areas in at least 100 feet are holding large schools of bait, under which you will find grouper looking for an easy meal. Look for the large bait schools on the bottom. Most of the time, you will find red grouper. But once in a while, you will find a pack of gag grouper.
Steve Papen charters out of Indian Shores and can be reached at (727) 642-3411 or www.fintasticinc.com
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