Finally, after months of anticipation the Winter fishing season is here. After just two or three cold fronts the action has sparked and all of the varieties that we love to fish for are in town just in time for the holidays.
Sailfish have been coming through with every cold front providing some great action when the conditions are right. Most of the fish are being caught on herring and goggle eyes suspended from kites. We've actually spent several evenings out catching a healthy supply of goggle eyes for the upcoming tournament season. I expect the sailfish action will get even better and more consistent with each passing front.
One of the nice things about sailfishing is the inevitable by-catch. Some of the fish that can interrupt the sailfishing are mahi(dolphin) and kingfish. Those who decide to drop a bait to the bottom are ofter rewarded with a nice mutton or grouper. I spoke to a fellow captain yesterday that found a hot spot and was rewarded with about ten nice muttons in addition to a couple of sails. We didn't catch any muttons because we were busy catching half a dozen nice mahi and three kingfish on of which was pushing 30 lbs. Unfortunately for this angler, a large shark fount the fish before he could get it to the boat. (See pictures below)
Before I conclude this report, I wanted to mention that for those anglers that don't like lumpy seas there has been a healthy supply of both spanish and cero mackereal available. Just like the sails, these fish turn on when the mercury drops. Another key to success is a well full of small pilchards that are used as both chum and bait. During a hot mackerel bite the action can be non-stop and there fast runs make them an ideal target for those that enjoy light tackle fishing. Fish will also readilly eat artificials especially when they have been chummed into a frenzy. Fly fishing enthusiasts can also capitalize on these fish when they are hot and heavy.
Well, there you have it. Now is definately the time to pick some dates and give it a shot. Do yourself a favor and book your trips early in order to avoid getting locked out of the peak season action.
Till Next Time,
Capt. Orlando Muniz
Nomad Fishing Charters
www.NomadFishing.com
(786)266-0171
