Despite last week’s challenging conditions, anglers who braved the rough seas were rewarded with some of the best sailfish action of the season. Double-digit sailfish days were reported off Conch Reef as the Gulf Stream pushed warm water close to shore, creating perfect conditions for these acrobatic billfish.
Reef report: Yellowtail snapper spawn is on
The reef bite has shifted into high gear as yellowtail snapper begin their annual spawn. Anglers are finding consistent action on the following spots.
• Molasses Reef: 40-60 feet, chum lines with cut ballyhoo.
• Conch Reef: 50-70 feet, live shrimp on light tackle.
• Davis Reef: 35-55 feet, small jigs tipped with squid.
Pro tip: The spawn means yellowtails are aggressive and feeding heavily. Use light fluorocarbon leaders (12-15 pounds) and small circle hooks for best results.
Wreck fishing: Mutton snapper show up
The deep water wrecks are producing quality mutton snapper for anglers willing to make the run offshore. Live pilchards have been the ticket, with fish holding in 120-180 feet of water.
Hot wrecks this week include Tennessee Reef deep wrecks, Alligator Reef offshore structure and Crocker Reef deep ledges.
Gear recommendation: 50-80 pound braid with 60-80 pound fluorocarbon leader, 7/0-8/0 circle hooks.
Shallow water action: Cobia sightings
Anglers are reporting cobia sightings in shallow water, with fish being spotted cruising the flats and around channel markers. These powerful battlers are showing up earlier than usual this season.
Where to look:
• Channel markers and buoys in 10-20 feet of water.
• Flats edges near deeper channels.
• Around bridge pilings and structure.
Tactics: Sight-fish with live crabs, large shrimp, or bucktail jigs. Cobia are curious — a well-placed cast in front of a cruising fish often triggers a strike.
Conditions Outlook
Last week: Rough seas with 4-6 foot waves, 15-20 knot winds from the east. Challenging but fishable for experienced captains.
This week: Conditions are improving with winds backing off to 10-15 knots and seas dropping to 2-4 feet. Water temperatures holding steady in the mid-70s.
