By Brent Gaskill, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Early spring: Warm weather in mid February has sparked an early spring bite. The first sign of spring is the early arrival of Spanish mackerel. Mackerels' size has varied by location, but their presence in Tampa Bay has been a positive sign for good spring fishing.
Bait: It's still early in the season for workable baitfish on the hook, so artificial lures have been key. An abundance of glass minnows gathering at the mouth of the bay has drawn predators into the area. Using small, shiny lures that mimic these baitfish will draw strikes. Tiny silver spoons, pencil-shaped chrome hard plastic baits and small jigs will connect.
Quick work: Mackerel love to chase lures. Retrieving an offering lures at a sporty pace may draw a strike. Mackerel like a lure that moves quickly and is attempting to flee. If you observe mackerel following your lure, go faster and try to get it away from them.
Brent Gaskill runs Summer Vacation Charters out of the St. Petersburg area and can be reached at captbrent@summervacationcharters.com or (727)510-1009.