“Space Coast Fishing Alert: Snook Harvest Closed, Gag Grouper Set to Close June 15”

Summer Recreation in Florida: Best Fishing Spots and Tips

Targeting Snook? Here’s What You Need to Know

During the next three months, catching and releasing snook is now mandatory. This move came after the summer spawn, which will attract snook to the inlets between Port Canaveral and Sebastian. If you’re planning to target these beauties this summer, remember to follow these tips:

1. Use the Same Techniques for Tarpon and Goliath Grouper

The same techniques that work for tarpon and goliath grouper will do the trick for snook. Just remember to handle all fish with care and avoid removing tarpon or goliath grouper from the water, as it’s against the law. To know more about fishing regulations in Florida, check out MyFWC.com.

2. Get Familiar with the Best Spots

While catching snook can be rewarding, finding them can be tricky. Look for schools of redfish and black drum around the Clinker Islands and off Biolab Boat Ramp. You can also spot tailing fish in the shallows behind Cucumber Island. Use live shrimp, either freelined or rigged behind a popping cork, to lure them in. If you’re after bigger fish, head to Haulover Canal, where schools of snook are schooling and gobbling up crabs.

Gag Grouper, Amberjack, and Red Snapper: Other Fish to Catch This Summer

If you’re looking for other fishing options this summer in Florida, consider gag grouper, amberjack, and red snapper. These fish have also been biting and can be found in 120 to 200 feet of water. To catch them, use dead sardines and conventional tackle to set the hook with a few quick cranks of the reel. You can also try your luck with kingfish, which have been biting in 30-60 feet of water along with sharks.

Tarpon, Flounder, Sheepshead, and Croaker: Unmissable Catches for Anglers

If you’re after tarpon, you might find them just off the beaches in 20-30 feet of water chasing pogies. Meanwhile, whiting is the name of the game at area beaches, although sargassum seaweed is causing problems. For tarpon, sardines or greenies work well as bait. For flounder, sheepshead, and croaker, pitch to the end of docks and onto flats. You can also fish channel edges and drop-offs to increase your chances. If you’re fishing in the Indian River Lagoon and Banana River Lagoon around Merritt Island, try using live shrimp. Catch and release snook, big jacks, redfish, black drum, and mid-size tarpon can be caught in these areas.

In Conclusion

Florida is an excellent fishing location, but it’s essential to understand the regulations on catch-and-release fishing of certain species. Regardless of what you’re after, patience and technique go a long way in reeling in the perfect catch.

Originally Post From https://www.floridatoday.com/story/sports/outdoors/2024/06/06/space-coast-fishing-snook-harvest-closed-gag-grouper-closes-june-15/73954601007/