By Larry Blue, Times Correspondent
Sunday, May 15, 2011
What's hot: King mackerel fishing has been off, but amberjack have not only been found on the usual wrecks but on the reefs and big ledges. On your fish finder, look for amberjack in concentrated schools, usually suspended at mid depth.
Tactics: Once you locate fish, anchor up-tide and drift into position. Set out a chum bag to get the fish excited, and throw in a few live chum baits, too. You don't want to feed them; just give them a treat. Toss over a couple of chum baits and pitch your hooked bait among them. As the free-swimming baits disappear, the hooked bait will stand out awaiting a strike.
Hang on: Once the amberjack takes the hooked bait, you'll know why so many anglers love this hard-fighting sport fish.
Larry Blue charters the Niki Joe from Madeira Beach Marina. Call (727) 871-1058 or visit CaptainLarryBlue.com.