By Jackie Otto, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
What's hot: Tarpon fishing is almost at its peak. Tides for the rest of this week will be slack and not very productive. But the first week in May will have huge "Hill Tides" from the full moon. The outgoing tides flush crabs from the flats and into the gulf, ringing a huge dinner bell for tarpon. From Dunedin Pass south to Stump Pass, crabs will be funneling out on the surface.
Techniques: First, acquire the crabs by dip-netting. Get your boat in what is called the trash line of the outgoing tide and watch as the crabs, about the size of a half-dollar, float by. Most anglers will use a long-handled net with small mesh, dipping it in the water when the crab is sighted. You can keep them in a 5-gallon bucket with a little water and grass or in your baitwell.
Tips: Watch for the tarpon rolling and or "sipping" the crabs. Drift with the current and free-line the crab so it is drifting naturally at the same speed as the current. Proper tackle is a must; at least 30- to 40-pound monofilament or 50- to 65-pound braid main line and 50- to 80-pound leader depending on water clarity.
Jackie Otto can be reached at Betts Fishing Center (727) 518-7637 or jackieotto@msn.com.