By Dave Mistretta, Times Correspondent
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Springtime: Options seem endless as warmer weather brings more fish our way. Kingfish are not prevalent yet, but we have high hopes for a decent run any day. The boats at our marina got a few last week.
Bait fish coming: We did notice migrations of big schools of sardines offshore. Diving seabirds known as "gannets" made spotting bait schools easy. We found them in 70 feet in the morning and 50 feet in the afternoon. This eastward migration is typical for the spring. Expect the schools to settle on artificial reefs about 10 miles from shore.
Pleasant surprise: While jigging baitfish, a giant cobia swam toward us. Spring offers huge cobias, particularly this one of 60-plus pounds. These curious fish have been spotted on many locations. It's common for cobia to show up under your boat. This time of year, we always have a rod ready.
Big bull shark: Sharks are showing up at many locations, too. We got a 300-pounder Friday while fishing over a wreck in 80 feet. These aggressive fish love to hang around wrecks and will eagerly attack your fish while being reeled in.
Dave Mistretta captains the Jaws Too out of Indian Rocks Beach. Call (727) 439-2628 or see www.jawstoo.com.