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Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 209
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, November 12, 2009 - 6:14 pm: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Unbelievable Gag grouper fishing west of Hernando Beach Florida. We are having a great time catching Gag grouper this fall. So many keeper size grouper being caught we have to stop at our limit and move on to other types of fishing. Most of the common areas like the Tanks, Richardson Reef, Martins Reef, and the Concrete Ruble are holding a lot of Gag grouper. Be prepared to use a lot of bait. There are still thousands of short Red and Gag grouper in the area eating us up. It is not uncommon to catch over a hundred short grouper in a day and use fifty pounds of Threadfin Herring. The only way to use less bait is to use cut up Grunts and Mullet. Other fish that are around in great quantities are Spanish Mackerel, Kingfish, Bonita's, Amberjack, and Red Snapper. The Snapper and Amberjacks are released since the season is now closed. However they are a lot of fun to catch and release since they provide non-stop action due to their immense population. The Kingfish are here now and are scatted in all depths of water. The closest Kingfish we caught lately was in 20 feet of water. It hit knocker rig on the way up when an angler was checking his bait. To his surprise he had to hook the fish in the eye with his circle hook and was able to land the large King with a mono leader. He was reminded by his fishing buddies to buy some lottery tickets after this great catch since luck was truly on his side that day. Off-shore in 50 feet there are large schools of bait working their way south. These schools of bait are under attack by Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, and Bonita's. Great trolling action for these fish with spoons, dusters on a plainer, and deep diving lures. Look for the birds diving and chasing bait near the surface. These tell tale signs will keep you fishing were the fish are and hooked up.
Off-Shore Forecast: Fishing of Hernando Beach is consistently very good and will always have grouper swimming around it's reefs for you to catch. December is looking like it will be just as good as any other December in recent past. Look for awesome big Gag grouper in shallower areas and ledges to eat larger cut up bait like Boston Mackerel, Mullet and Grunts. Same basic types of rock, ledges, and hard bottom areas will produce great numbers of fish. Do not forget about the greatest fish to fry in the Gulf of Mexico the "Grunt". Grunts are great to eat and are worth the effort to catch, fillet, and fry. Recently some anglers brought back to memory how great a meal grunt make. They are easy to catch, plentiful, and will keep kids busy while you are working on catching the big grouper.
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
On the flats the Redfish are moving around points and rocky oyster areas. Lures are still working real well if casting in the wind doesn't bother you. An easier approach is to use Pinfish cut in half and small Blue crabs. These baits are hard for a Redfish to pass up when they are normally swimming around chasing live stuff. The Sea Trout are starting to bunch up on the deeper rock piles and in the early morning many are being caught in Jenkins Creek off Shoal Line blvd. In Jenkins Creek popping cork and live shrimp have been the most consistent bait early in the morning. Snook action has been very good up in the Mud River. Small top water lures like a Jug-bug and Rapalas have been working well at night.
Flats Forecast: Look for December to produce bigger Sea Trout than previous months around the creeks that have warmer spring water running into the Gulf of Mexico. With the Sea Trout you will notice large schools of Jack Cravelle moving up and down these creek areas. They are ferocious fighters and will eat most lures without hesitation. Set your drag correctly because these fish will rip a lot of line of your reel. They are not that great of a fish to eat but they are fun to catch. In most cases once you find the Jacks in an area. Hook ups on every cast with these fun fish are not uncommon for hours. |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 206
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, October 31, 2009 - 11:43 am: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Unbelievable Gag grouper fishing west of Hernando Beach Florida. We are having a great time catching Gag grouper this fall. So many Keeper size grouper being caught we have to stop at our limit and move on to other types of fishing. Other fish that are around in great quantities are Spanish Mackerel, Kingfish, Bonita's, Amberjack, and Red Snapper. The Snapper and Amberjacks are release for the commercial fishing industry to harvest at a later date. However they are a lot of fun to catch and release.
Fishing of Hernando beach is consistently very good and will always have grouper swimming around it's reefs for you to catch. November is looking like it will be just as good as any other November in resent past. Look for awesome big Gag grouper in shallower areas and ledges to eat larger cut up bait like mullet and Grunts.
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 29
Registered: 5-2008
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, October 30, 2009 - 7:00 pm: | |
This time of year is special for anglers. The waters are holding in the mid 70s which means that all species of fish are on the move and actively feeding. We are catching fish in all depths and the only problem we have had is deciding on what species to target.
As a guide, I often establish a game plan for my clients based on a number of factors. The weather and tides are two important factors to consider when forming this plan of attack. Understanding the elements and having the right strategy based on them can make the difference on weather or not you put fish in the cooler. This can be as simple as getting out a few hours early to beat the arrival of a front, or hitting the flats first while waiting for a high tide. Drifting the flats while waiting for water to move in is a productive way to pass time and target other species like mackerel,blue fish,cobia,shallow water grouper,trout,and more. Once the high tide arrives, you will have fish in the box and you'll be warmed up for those bruiser reds and hopefully a couple of line siders.
Redfish and snook are feeding best on the begining of the out going tide in the morning or late afternoon. North of bayport up to Chassahowitzka has produced NON-STOP REDFISH ACTION! Look for schools of mullet near structure jumping and creating "nervous water" and Reds will be there ready to take your offering. Cut mullet, lady fish, or live pinfish placed near the shore line will work. If artificials is your fancy then try a gold spoon or bounce a copper penny GULP near the mangroves and oyster bars. Topwater plugs like the Storm Chugbug or a Hedden spook jr. will produce fish. It is always a fun to watch those fish blow up on a topwater.
TIP-Always keep working the topwaters until you feel the fish pulling! Many anglers make the mistake when they see that explosion at the surface of setting the hook to soon and end up pulling the lure away from the fish!!
Good luck out there and tight lines!!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 203
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, October 24, 2009 - 2:17 am: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Off-shore the Red and Gag Grouper fishing has been very good in all depths of water. Rock piles, ledges, and hard bottom areas are the places to look when off-shore. Mostly frozen Threadfin Herring has been used to catch these fish while anchored up. Additional, cut up Grunts especially the head portion has produced the largest Grouper on every trip. Be sure to check your leader and line before dropping a head down to the bottom. If there is a weak spot these Grouper will make sure it comes apart. There are still allot of Red Snapper being caught while Grouper fishing in 60 feet of water and beyond. Since the season is closed we have successfully release every single Red Snapper.
Around the wrecks Live pinfish have been working well for the Amberjacks and Mangrove Snapper. The Amberjacks have been larger than the 30 inch legal size. Many fish over 40 pounds and have been caught on conventional and spinning gear. Using a flat-line off the stern has produced plenty of Spanish Mackerel and some Kingfish in 40 feet of water and beyond. Live bait like Blue Runners work well when the tide is moving fast enough to keep the bait in place.
Fishing is always very good off Hernando Beach; However we are looking forward to the fall run of Gag Grouper in our shallow water areas. The Stone crab traps are out and the Grouper fishing will only get easier as the water cools down with each approaching cold front. Look for the action to really pick up when the water temperature gets down to the mid 70's.
Capt Rick
727-992-9494 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
New member
Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 28
Registered: 5-2008
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 - 7:19 am: | |
Bulldog Fishin Charters inshore report
The recent front that came through last weekend brought a lot of wind and brought the inshore waters down to the mid to upper 70's. We had to wait a few days for the wind to let up, but the bite was fantastic once we could get out to wet a line. The morning low tides combined with the wind blowing from the east made it difficult to get into the backcountry in the morning.
Due to the low tides we have been fishing the flats early until we were able to move in and look for red fish. The shallow flats provided us with non stop rod bending action. Good numbers of trout,Spanish mackerel,blue fish,lady fish,cobia and more are pulling drag in 2 - 6 ft. of water. There are a number of tactics that will produce fish in these depths this time of year. GULP shrimp,silver spoons,and hard baits like a Rapala Twitch n' Rap are all great options. The trout have been small on average but the bigger ones seem to be hitting top water plugs. A bone colored Heddon Zara Spook Jr. is one that seems to put some nice trout in the cooler. The daily bag limit for trout in our area is 5 per person - They may be NO LESS than 15" and one of the 5 may be kept over 20".
The backcountry areas North of Bayport are continuing to hold large numbers of upper slot sized reds. I find the best bite continues to be at the start of a out going tide. Schools of reds are spread out the entire region and are moving with schools of mullet. Live pin fish and cut mullet placed near oyster bars and mangrove shore line are producing the most fish, but lures like a gold spoon or GULP 3" shrimp will draw strikes. Be sure to target areas that are holding schools of mullet and approach them with stealth. Be ready for the occasional snook to feed on one of these offerings. I often fish with a 30 LB. leader just in case a large "line sider" decides to cooperate.
Grouper continue to migrate in from the deeper water with the decreasing temperatures in the Gulf. Large keeper gag and red grouper are be caught in a shallow as 15 ft. of water. This pattern will continue as we move towards winter.
This is the time of year when fishing out of Hernando Beach peaks and gives angler roughly 2 plus months of incredible fishing. Don't miss this opportunity to get out and enjoy some fantastic fishing and beautiful weather.
Good luck out there and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 200
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, October 13, 2009 - 8:59 pm: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Report
Off-shore the Red and Gag Grouper fishing has been very good in all depths of water. Mostly dead bait has been used to catch these fish while anchored up. Around the wrecks Live pinfish have been working well for the Amberjack and Mangrove Snapper. Plenty of Spanish Mackerel and some Kingfish action in 40 feet of water and beyond. Fishing is always very good off Hernando Beach however we are looking forward to the fall run of Gag Grouper in our shallow water areas. The crab traps are out and the Grouper fishing will only get easier as the water cools down with each approaching front.
Capt Rick
727-992-9494. |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
New member
Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 27
Registered: 5-2008
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, October 13, 2009 - 7:25 pm: | |
The days have been hot the past week, but the water temperature is staying in the low 80's. We have a front moving through this weekend but it appears that it is going to bring more wind than cold air. The fishing out of Hernando Beach has been fantastic the past week. We have been catching a mixed bag of quality fish.
The backcountry bite is really starting to peak. Good numbers of red fish,snook, and trout are being caught on a variety of baits. The many bays and creeks North of Bayport have been holding a a lot of fish that are on the move and feeding. Target areas that have structure like oyster bars and mangroves on the start of a out going tide. One tactic that I feel produces the most fish is to set up within casting distance from these points and offer baits like cut mullet,cut pin fish or live pin fish. I prefer to use a cork so I can see the strike. Use a 3/0 - 4/0 circle hook with a 20 - 30 lb. mono leader. When your cork disappears, slowly reel down until you feel the weight of the fish and let the circle hook do its job. Circle hooks allow anglers to get a good hook set in the corner of the mouth. This not only reduces the number of break offs, but it makes it easy to get the hook out of the fish. This allows anglers to get back to fishing quicker and reduces the risk of a gut hook which will injure or kill the fish.
TIP- Keep a few lady fish to use as chum. If my clients start catching lady fish, I always put a few in the cooler for future trips. Cut them into small pieces throw them towards the oyster bars and mangroves your fishing using a bait slinger bat. These pieces of chum not only bring fish to the area, but it will also keep them there. This is a no cost easy way to chum an area your fishing and will put more fish in the boat !
Flats fishing continues to thrive in 4 - 12 ft. of water. Drifting fishing these depths over grassy bottom with sandy pot holes is what I target. GULP shrimp,silver spoons, or hard baits like mirro lure mirrodines are all producing fish. Trout,mackerel,lady fish,blue fish,jack crevalle,cobia,and more are all pulling drag.
Good luck out there, and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
New member
Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 26
Registered: 5-2008
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, October 06, 2009 - 1:47 pm: | |
Hernando Beach-Hernando County Near Tampa and Orlando
Fishing out of Hernando Beach is hot and should continue to improve. One reason the fishing is so good is the Autumn cooling trend this area of the Nature Coast is starting to go through. Fronts will continue to move through bringing water temperatures down. As the Gulf continues to cool a variety fish will migrate through
.
The shallow flats and backcountry from Aripeka North to Chassahowitzka are producing good numbers of quality fish. Trout are feeding in 3 - 6 foot of water. Drifting these depths over spotty bottom and casting silver spoons or bouncing Gulps across the bottom on a 1/4 ounce jig are a sure bet. The many near shore points with structure and spoil islands are still holding good numbers of red fish. Cut mullet and small pinfish seem to produce the best. Anchor up as far off as possible on these areas. Get within casting distance and no closer. This is why I prefer braided line. You get great range with a strong line. The further you stay back the less chance you have of being noticed by fish. This allows fish to move about naturally and feed.
Stone crab season starts the 15th of this month but commercial crabbers are allowed to bait and drop their traps ten days before that. These thousands of traps that are dropped are fantastic fishing areas. I believe this to be another reason that fish push in. Drifting these traps is a great tactic that will put fish in the box. The deeper flats offers anglers to catch a mixed bag of quality fish. I often target rock piles in 8 - 12 ft of water especially now that the crab traps have been soaking for a few days. Anchor off near these areas and put out a chum bag. This will attract large numbers of Spanish mackerel and the occasional cobia passing through on their southern migration. This tactic will also have trout,blue fish,sea bass,and jacks pulling drag. White GULP shrimp under a popping cork or a silver spoon worked in the chum slick will catch fish. A light steel leader may be needed to stop the cut offs from the macks and blues.
Oh yeah, can you say shallow water grouper! Big grouper can be caught on these very same rock piles. Long cast on heavier tackle is key. Due to the shallow water it is crucial to anchor a little ways off and cast to the structure. This forces the grouper to come out of the rocks to feed. When grouper are hooked away from rocks, there is no cover for them to dive into. This means less break offs. Casting plugs or frozen sardines floated back to the structure on heavy spinning tackle is a blast. Bring your back brace!! Trolling these areas can also produce if the weeds are not to bad. Precision Tackle on U.S. 19 has a fantastic variety of casting and trolling plugs to choose from. I prefer red/white or black/gold Long A Bombers scented with Pro-Cure. This set up is also great to throw to a big cobia you might spot working his way up your chum line.
Good luck,tight lines, and take a kid fishing!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 197
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, October 02, 2009 - 5:42 am: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Grouper fishing off Hernando Beach is always very good and lots of fun. Cooler air and cooling water temperatures are heating up the more shallow areas in ten feet of water. It is an amazing event to catch Grouper when you can see them take your bait. Most anglers are used to the idea of a Grouper pulling their line down. These fish swim sideways fast from one side of the boat to the other trying to find a rock to swim under. Exciting stuff!
Offshore the Grouper, Amberjack, Snapper, and Kingfish action is still very good. Large Mangrove Snapper, and American Red Snapper are plentiful. Live or dead bait continue to work equally well. Some Dolphins schools have been found around floating debris. These fish are crazy and easy to catch, have fun!
Capt Rick
727-992-9494 |
Capt. Alan Sherman (Shermana)
New member
Username: Shermana
Post Number: 13
Registered: 10-2008
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 30, 2009 - 7:37 am: | |
Fishing in South Florida continues to get better every day. If business would pick up with the level of the fishing then everyone would be a lot happier in the fishing industry. The good news is that the weather has been stable with no tropical systems to mention for the time being and things look good for that trend to continue. I have had the opportunity to fish some great clients this past week and also got to do some fishing of my own and with my wife Dana as you will see in the pictures I have added with this report.
I was in Flamingo with my wife last week and then with clients Jeff and Scott a few days after and fished Florida Bay with my wife where we found plenty of big redfish on the flats that were eager to eat Hook Up lures tipped with a Gulp shrimp. Along with the redfish we also had plenty of trout, snappers, jack, ladyfish and tripletail. All of these fish were caught on Cajun Thunder floats with live baits suspended or on Rapala Twitchin Raps and X raps and of course mentioned earlier the Hook Up lures tipped with Gulp soft plastics.
My trip with Jeff and Scott took place in Whitewater Bay where we fished the islands that are scattered throughout the backcountry. Jeff and Scott both threw artificial lures the entire day and were rewarded with snook to 38 inches, lots of mangrove snappers and jacks and some sea trout as well. We hooked a few fish that were huge but got away but that is what keeps fishing interesting and allows for great fishing stories. The one that got away! The top baits this day were Rapala Skitter Walks, X Raps, Twitchin Raps and a new plug the Skitter Pop SureSet.
Check the Photo Gallery at www.getemsportfishing.com to see some all of their catches.
Offshore fishing has been better each day with the return of Mahi Mahi or better known here in South Florida the dolphin. Many of these fish were caught on a Hook Up lure tipped with a Deep Creek soft plastic. Along with the dolphins I had the pleasure of fishing the Florida Marlins ace pitcher Ricky Nolasco and his girl friend Amber for a half day out of Miami. Amber is from Los Angeles where she works for the Dodgers and loves fishing but Ricky had never been before and she was hoping that I could teach him a few things about fishing in hopes that he would get hooked. Ricky was able to keep his body clear of the hooks and stuck a few hooks in a few fish as well. His first bait in the water turned into a legal sized tasty mutton snapper. From there he caught bluerunners and then an Arctic bonito that brought smiles to both of their faces. Not to be out done Amber caught a few bluerunners and then added a nice king fish to the list before we headed inshore where Amber caught sea trout, mangrove snappers and a barracuda. All of the fish were caught on live pilchards fished on a Mustad long shank hook. The pilchards were caught using a ten foot West Coast 3/8 inch mesh net. The baitfishes were thick and two casts filled my Pathfinders live well.
That catches us up for now!
Don't wait too long to book a trip because the Fall Migration won't last forever!
Check out my new web site and see your monthly catches and pictures.
www.getemsportfishing.com
Check out my report in the Miami Herald's Sports section under Fishing Updates each Thursday, the Florida Sportsman Magazines South Florida Internet Fishing Report
www.floridaspotsman.com), my monthly Action Spotter Fishing Report for the South Region in the Florida Sportsman Magazine each month or tune into the Florida Sportsman Magazines Live Radio Show on 1080 WMCU on the AM dial or listen on the internet at www.1080wmcu.com every Saturday morning from 7 to 8 AM and here the up to the minute fishing forecasts from some of the top Capt.'s in South Florida like Capt. Jimbo Thomas on the Thomas Flyer, Capt. Bouncer Smith on Bouncers Dusky, Capt Skip Bradeen on the Blue Chips Too out of Whale Harbor Marina, Capt. Wayne Conn on The Reward Fleet, and more.
I have recently been wearing a lot of Columbia Sports Wear on my fishing charters and the new Blood & Guts shirts are amazing. I have had mackerel, cobia and snook just splatter me with blood and one good washing and the shirts are as good as new. Check out their web site at www.columbia.com />
Sponsors: Yamaha, Bob Hewes Boats, Maverick, Minn Kota, Lowrance Electronics, Daiwa, General Motors & Chevrolet, Rapala, Mustad, Ande Lines, Pure Fishing, Gulp, Berkley, Precision Tackle, Cajun Thunders, Capt. Hank Brown's Hook Up Lures, Hydro Glow Lights, Costa Del Mar Sunglasses, Saltwater Assassins, Key Largo Rods, Lee Fisher Cast Nets, Smartshield, Master Repair in Stuart Florida, Power Pole, Stow Master Nets, superfishlight.com, Columbia Wear
Capt. Alan Sherman
"Get Em" Sportfishing Charters
www.getemsportfishing.com
Host of Florida Sportsman Radio Live/South
1080 WMCU AM Saturdays 7 to 8 AM
786-436-2064 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
New member
Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 25
Registered: 5-2008
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 30, 2009 - 5:59 am: | |
Hernando Beach inshore report provided by Bulldog Fishin Charters.
Well anglers, we have made it through Summer and have moved to Fall fishing. This week brought the first of the cold fronts. These fronts will continue to cool things down. With this cooling trend fish will be on the move and eager to feed. The change in weather has certain species migrating through this area of the Nature Coast creating some fantastic fishing.
Large schools of red fish are being found cruzing the flats North of Bayport. Most of these fish are over the 27 inch slot size, but they really can put up a fight. As with all fish, handle these reds with care. Make sure to return these bronze bombers back to the water quickly and revive them fully. We are also catching some nice slot reds near the many Northern spoil islands and mangrove shore lines. Focus on points with structure. I approach these areas as quietly as possible and look for activity like mullet moving through the area. You will see mullet jumping or creating what I like to call "nervous water". Cut mullet or pin fish under a cork and placed near structure are a great tactic. Sub surface twitch baits are also producing nice fish. Be ready for the occasional trout or snook in these areas also.
The trout bite has still been fantastic. We are catching quality trout in 2 - 8 ft of water. At times we are catching a lot of 12 - 14 inch trout all in the same area. When this happens, I often move to a different location in search of bigger trout. Gulp's worked across spotty bottom is a favorite presentation of mine, but I do enjoy working top water lures at times. Nothing beats watching trout,reds,snook,blue fish, or even jacks slam a surface walker. Bomber or Zara Spooks are great examples of productive plugs.
The mackerel are starting to invade the area. Drift fish depths of 4 - 12 ft of water. You can also anchor near structure and deploy a chum bag on a good moving tide. Target areas like North Rack or Cutters Rock. I like to throw silver spoons or place shrimp and small pin fish under a cork. Use a 2/0 long shank hook to prevent cut offs. A lite 3 - 4 inch steel leader may be added, but this can prevent strikes at times.
Best wishes and tight lines!!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 196
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, September 27, 2009 - 6:15 pm: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Grouper fishing off Hernando Beach like always is very good. Plenty of keeper size fish in all depth of water. The most consistent depth for larger fish for now remains in 50 feet and beyond. Basic frozen and live bait techniques are still an effective way to catch Grouper. Trolling for Grouper is becoming easer since we have had more east winds. East winds blow the surface weed out of the area so we can enjoy catching fish instead of weeds. Chartreuse, Black & Gold, and Olive colors are great choices when trying to catch Gag Grouper trolling.
When you are ready to catch fish call me!
Capt Rick
727-992-9494 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
New member
Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 24
Registered: 5-2008
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 - 5:39 am: | |
October is almost here which marks the start of my favorite time of year to fish the flats and backcountry of this area of the Nature Coast. The weather is beautiful and there is a cooling trend in the gulf waters. This cooling trend means that bite will be fantastic and a variety of fish will be caught. Trout will be moving in from the deeper flats and will should take 1st place with red fish finishing a close second. Be ready for the occasional snook,cobia,jack crevalle,blue fish,lady fish,or shark to pull some drag. Target locations like the mouths of Fillmans Bayou,Hernando Beach spoil islands,or Higgenbotham creek at the beginning of a out going tide. When fishing locations like this I often cast to the deeper cuts near structure with good tidal flow or drift the grassy flats with spotty bottom.
October also means big schools of Spanish mackerel should arrive. look to find these guys in 3 - 12 foot of water. I often drift fish to locate mackerel and deploy a chum bag. Free lined shrimp on a 2/0 long shank hook or silver spoons are both successful techniques. A 4 - 6 inch light steel leader may be used to prevent cut offs by these toothy critters. Large schools of blue fish will often invade which can make for a lot of fun on light tackle. Blue fish fight hard and will hit any offering thrown to them. If you find yourself in a large school of blues, try a bright colored top water. These fish attack top water in a frenzy and will give anglers quite the aerial show.
Berkley GULP has been a very productive bait. Fish just can't seem to resist these scented baits. I prefer to use 3 colors - white,new penny, or nuclear chicken. A 3" shrimp or the paddle tail shad both produce a variety of fish. Work these baits slow at first but be ready to adjust your retrieval speed if necessary. How will I know when it's necessary - you ask. If the bite slows try something else. Even something subtle like working your lure faster or slower can make the difference. Sometimes the color of the lure is not the problem, it's the presentation!
Good luck out there and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 193
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, September 20, 2009 - 5:51 pm: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Grouper fishing off Hernando Beach like always is very good. Plenty of keeper size fish in all depth of water. The most consistent depth for larger fish for now remains in 50 feet and beyond. Basic frozen and live bait techniques are still an effective way to catch Grouper. Trolling for Grouper is becoming easer since we have had more east winds. East winds blow the surface weed out of the area so we can enjoy catching fish instead of weeds. Chartreuse, Black & Gold, and Olive colors are great choices when trying to catch Gag Grouper trolling.
When you are ready to catch fish call me!
Capt Rick
727-992-9494 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
New member
Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 23
Registered: 5-2008
Rating: 
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, September 19, 2009 - 11:11 am: | |
Bulldog Fishin Charters Hernando Beach report
The summer heat has let up a bit. With these cooler days the water temperature is holding in the low 80's. This is the time of year where we make the transition to an Autumn cooling trend. With these slightly cooler conditions, the only hot thing in this area of the Nature Coast is the fishing. This is my favorite time of year to fish the flats and backcountry areas from Aripeka to Chasshowitzka.
The rain did cool things down a bit, but it also made the waters mirky at times. We had to target a variety of locations early in the week to find clean water but it was worth the effort. When the water is dirty from recent winds or rain it is important to remember to adjust your tactics. I like to use a lure that will make a little noise like a Mirro-lure Catch 2000. Scented baits worked slowly will also bring more strikes in low visibility conditions. Live pinfish,select shrimp, or cut bait will always work well in any conditions.
The spoil islands and creeks that litter this area of the Nature Coast are loaded with mangroves, oyster bars, and bait. Quietly approach these areas and look for signs of life like diving birds or jumping mullet. These areas will hold trout,red fish, and the occasional snook. I target these areas at the beginning of a out going tide. Live pin fish or cut mullet are great baits. Johnson gold spoons or a Rapala Twitch'n Rap are artificial's that will cover a lot of territory and produce quality fish. No matter my bait or lure, I only fish with braided line. Braided line gives angler the ability to use a strong line that has a small diameter. This is a must for making long cast to spooky fish.
The deeper flats are producing quality trout,mackerel,shark,sea bass,jacks,and more. 1/4 ounce jigs combined with 3" GULP shrimp have produced steady rod bending action. 8 - 12 ft of water has been our target depth. The bite slows on a slack tide, but once the tide shifts the fish are on the move again and feeding!
Good luck and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Post Number: 190
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 - 2:08 pm: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Grouper fishing is still outstanding in 50 feet of water and beyond. Limits of Gag and Red Grouper have not been a problem. Large Mangrove Snapper are abundant and are a welcome addition to the cooler. We have been using both fish boxes to accommodate the large amounts of Grouper we have been catching. Dead bait has still out performed live bait. Using Grunt heads for bait has consistently produced the larger Grouper on every trip. Great bottom fishing will continue through next couple of months and we will soon find that Grouper fishing will drastically improve in the shallow 20 foot deep areas. Shorter days and cool nights are causing the water temperature to slowly go down. Typically nonstop action can be expected all day with less emphasis on the morning and evening bite. Look for Kingfish to become more common in the Hernando Beach area. We have noticed large schools of bait moving south already and we have caught some large Kingfish on a flat line while Grouper fishing.
Anglers ask me how is it that we are able to catch so many Grouper and other reef fish? My reply is usually the same , "fish where the fish are"! Sounds funny, but true. It is common for anglers to go fishing and not fish the best areas and attribute slow action to fish not biting. Though it is reasonable to believe fish do not eat all the time. Your chances of catching more fish are better if you are in tune with the environment and know where the fish are located. One trick to catching more fish is to find places that have not been pressured by other anglers. New spots almost always produce bigger and more fish. If you have a true understanding of what your depth sounder is displaying you can discriminate sand from rocks, and identify schools of fish. Sounds a little tricky but anyone can learn how to find structure with a little practice. Structure is what the fish relate to. This is where they seek shelter, and find food. Most structures like hard bottom, rock piles, and ledges produce the most. If you constantly observe your depth sounder while slowly moving from one known fishing area to the next you will eventually encounter another fishing area. Go slow, allow your sounder to provide you a clear depiction of what is on the bottom. Test your newly found areas by dropping a line to the bottom. If you catch a grunt or a Grouper of any size mark it on your GPS and save you new spot. Slowly move your boat around a short distance and continue this process. You will be amazed at how many new places there are to catch fish near your old spots. |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 - 12:25 pm: | |
As we move through September, the inshore bite is starting to heat up. I fished shallow water for most of the week and was rewarded with some quality fish. The gulf waters have cooled down due to a combination of the rain and cloud cover. We are approaching my favorite time of year to fish. As we move to October the Inshore bite should be fantastic!
The backcountry is holding good numbers of red fish,trout, and snook. These fish seem to hold in the skinny water longer with cooler water temperatures. I still try to target these fish early morning. This is the time that these fish are on the move and actively feeding. Target the many deeper creeks and cuts of Hernando. I prefer a high out going tide. The Hernando Beach channel has been hot also. The rocks and cuts that span the North side of the channel are holding large numbers of quality trout,red fish, and the occasional snook. I fear that the fishing around the channel will be affected with the dredge starting soon, but once it's done the fishing should be better than it was with the deeper water.
There are a variety of baits and lures anglers can use while fishing these areas.Free lined pin fish and select shrimp are great live baits. I use a 3/0 circle hook and 3 - 4 foot of 20 - 30 LB mono leader. Target areas that have near by structure. If you are a artificial angler and only throw lures then I recommend you basic white plastic that is either scented or has good action (like a paddle tail). Another lure is one that Dave from precision Tackle turned me on to. Its a Rapala Twitchin' Rap, and I am very impressed with this lures action and castability. This lure is suspension lure that slowly sinks but when retrieved it stays just under the surface. There is a variety of colors to choose from, but most of the Rapala Twitchin'raps have that red chin and belly that I believe draws a lot of strikes. Remember, to give any new lure a chance to work, and be sure to fish it in a variety of ways.
Good luck, and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Post Number: 187
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, September 11, 2009 - 3:14 pm: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Fishing off Hernando Beach for Grouper and Mangrove Snapper this month looks great. We have been catching Mangrove Snapper and Grouper in close and offshore a ways. Frozen Threadfin Herring, Pinfish, and live Sand Perch have been working really well for the Grouper. 10 hour and 12 hour trips during the warmer months are the most productive for size and variety of fish.
Mangrove Snapper have been caught best on clear 15 pound line on spinning tackle with no leader or weight. Chumming with glass minnows and sand really gets the Snapper fired up and off the bottom. Then you can flat line for them with small chunks of bait. Most of the Mangrove snapper are around 2 pounds; however it is not uncommon to catch them over 5 pounds.
See ya on the water,
Capt Rick
727-992-9494 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Post Number: 184
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 02, 2009 - 8:36 am: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Fishing off Hernando Beach for Grouper and Mangrove Snapper this month looks great. We have been catching Mangrove Snapper and Grouper in close and offshore a ways. Frozen Threadfin Herring, Pinfish, and live Sand Perch have been working really well for the Grouper. 10 hour and 12 hour trips during the warmer months are the most productive for size and variety of fish.
Mangrove Snapper have been caught best on clear 15 pound line on spinning tackle with no leader or weight. Chumming with glass minnows and sand really gets the Snapper fired up and off the bottom. Then you can flat line for them with small chunks of bait. Most of the Mangrove snapper are around 2 pounds; however it is not uncommon to catch them over 5 pounds.
See ya on the water,
Capt Rick
727-992-9494 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Post Number: 21
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 02, 2009 - 8:05 am: | |
Hernando Beach report - Bulldog Fishin Charters
September is an exciting month for inshore fishing. Anglers not only have the opportunity to bag a snook and put him on the dinner table, but they also will have a chance to catch a huge redfish.
The reason I say huge is because this is the time of year when huge bronze bombers (aka red fish) move into the flats in massive schools to spawn. These fish that move through the area are not just looking for love, they are usually very hungry and willing to eat what ever gets in their way. These schools of reds can hold hundreds of fish and most of them are over the slot limit of 18 - 27 inches. Look for these reds in the deeper flats early in the month. Try to find birds diving the water. Birds follow these schools and pick up the scraps left by a red fish feeding frenzy. Approach quietly and throw a select shrimp under a cork or a spoon. I use 15 LB braided line with a 20 - 30 LB mono leader. The braid allows anglers to cast further which is crucial when the reds are spooky.
As of the 1st of September, anglers no longer have to catch and release snook. For the next 3 months 1 snook per person can be put in the cooler as long as it's in the 28" - 33" slot limit. Target snook with pin fish and white bait. I like to free line these baits on a 3 - 4 ft. a 20 - 30 Lb leader with a 3/0 circle hook. Areas with good moving current and structure are a must. .
The offshore bite continues to be fantastic in 60 - 80 ft of water. Limits of red grouper are being caught relatively quickly with a few gags mixed in. The hot bait seems to be live pin fish with frozen sardines being productive as well. The mangrove snapper have been cooperating also but if you want to target these guys try down sizing your hook and leader. The only problem we seem to have off shore is the amount of American red snapper we have to catch and release. It just does not seem that there is a shortage of red snapper in the gulf.
Remember scallopers, the season closes as of sept. 11th so get your scallops while you can.
Good luck anglers and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Post Number: 182
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 25, 2009 - 3:12 am: | |
Hernando Beach Florida Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Looks like the summer heat is going to continue for a couple more months and the fishing will stay hot in deeper water. Last few Grouper fishing trips in 60 feet of water were very productive. Throughout the day we caught Red Grouper, Gag Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Grunts, Sharks, and some small Cobias. Consistent action all-day makes fishing allot of fun and helps keep your mind off the heat.
Fishing in this deeper water will more than likely continue to be very good since there are other currents beside the tide that tend to keep the water a little cooler. Offshore you will also notice there are more pods of bait and Sargasso sea weed floating around. This floating weed often attracts bait fish that seek refuge from predator fish in the open water. The accumulation of baitfish will often make it easier for an angler to locate and catch Cobia, Mackerel, Mahi, and Black-fin Tuna.
Best thing to do is be prepared to catch fish a number of different types of tackle. Conventional Grouper fishing tackle, spinning gear are two types of tackle that will help you capitalize on fishing opportunities you encounter. Live Pinfish, and frozen Threadfin Herring are always great baits to have when offshore fishing. On a recent trip a Cobia swam around the boat and would not bite anything we threw at it. However, when we took the sinker off the line and allowed a live Pinfish to swim naturally about 30 feet behind the back of the boat. The cobia quickly swam toward the bait and ate it immediately. Luckily we were prepare for this occasion and a wonderful battle between fish and angler commenced.
See ya on the water
Capt Rick
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Post Number: 20
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, August 24, 2009 - 4:51 pm: | |
August can be a tough month for shallow water anglers. The proper strategy and tactics will make the difference of weather or not you have a good day fishing. Getting out early or fishing late afternoon is the time to hit the water to avoid the summer heat. Fish are on the move and actively feeding during these times. Targeting the skinny water areas early in the morning on a good out going tide is a recipe for success. The tides are not always perfect but fortunately we have a nice morning high tide this weekend.
The red fish bite has been slow through out the entire area. Patient anglers willing to put a little work in will be rewarded. Cut mullet and live pin fish have been the most productive. Free line these baits around structure. I often target saw grass and rocky areas, but I also make sure these areas are near thick mangroves that provide cover and cooler water for the reds. These areas will also produce the occasional snook.
The best trout bite continues to be in the deeper flats. Drift fishing the grass flats while free lining shrimp or pinfish is a good tactic, but I prefer to slowly jig a Scented artificial like a 3' GULP shrimp across the bottom. Both these techniques produce non stop rod bending action. We are catching quality trout,sea bass,small grouper,mackerel,sharks,and more in 10 - 12 ft of water.
Speaking of sharks! If you like shark fishing then now is the time to target them. Heavy spinning tackle is my favorite way to fish for these bruisers. 30 - 40 LB. braided line with a 2 -3 ft. 60 LB. mono leader tied to a 6 - 8 inch 60 - 80 LB. steel leader is how I rig my rods. The reason I put in the 2-3 ft of monofilament leader is so there is some stretch in the line. The braid and steel leader have zero stretch, so the mono allows some give during the fight and lowers the risk of break offs. This tackle might seem a little light for shark fishing but the majority of the sharks we catch are from 2 - 6 ft, and this tackle is perfect for this size. Place 1 or 2 chum bags off the side of the boat and they will come. Cut lady fish or mullet on a 6/0 -7/0 circle hook will do the trick. Heavier conventional tackle is necessary for larger sharks so I often have one rod ready in case bigger sharks make a showing.
Be safe out there and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Post Number: 19
Registered: 5-2008
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 18, 2009 - 9:36 am: | |
Hernando Beach inshore report
The weather this past week gave anglers the opportunity to get out and fish and the bite was good. The early morning is still the time to get out to avoid the summer heat and the afternoon thunder storms. It appears the hurricane season has finally started and fortunately we will not be in the path of Bill.
The backcountry bite is still a little slow. Anglers willing to get out early and be patient will catch fish. Target the outer points near structure. Structure can mean a number of things. Mangroves,saw grass,oyster bars,docks, or even deeper cuts all qualify as "structure" that will hold fish. I like to focus on these areas on a high outgoing tide and as early in the day as possible. Be ready to use a variety of lures and baits. I prefer to use live pinfish or cut mullet for bait and a gold spoon is a great artificial option. Try to target areas that show signs of life like mullet jumping. These areas will hold reds,snook,trout,flounder,jacks, and more. Fish like jacks might not be the best table fare but they are a blast to catch. Jack crevelle are kind of like the junk yard dogs of the gulf.
The flats off Hernando have been producing non stop rod bending action. We have been catching quality trout,sea bass,mackerel,shark,jacks,small grouper,blue fish, and more. The grass flats in 8 - 10 ft of water seems to be where the best bite is. The fish prefer the deeper flats this time of year due to the cooler water. I often drift fish these depths and slowly work shrimp,small pin fish, or 3 - 4 inch GULP shrimp across the grass. these tactics combined with light tackle will not only put a bend in your rod but it also will fill a cooler with quality fish.
Good luck out there and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 181
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, August 17, 2009 - 11:31 am: | |
Aug 09 Gulf Grouper Deep Sea fishing Report
Little deeper and further offshore are the fishing conditions you are looking for. When you are looking to catch big Red Grouper, Gag Grouper, and Red Snapper the cooler waters in 50 feet or deeper have been the most consistent for catching fish all day long. The shallower waters have plenty of Gag Grouper and other reef fish. They just do not cooperate very long; For example, you may anchor on a reef and catch one or two Grouper then they stop eating. Additionally around 11:00 am on a sunny day it is almost impossible to get any keeper size fish to bite. There are always exception in fishing. However, Off shore the fish tend to feed longer and average length is longer. Dead Threadfin Herring are great to start off with to get the fish chewing. Then drop a live bait down and feel your rod load up when GagZilla takes off towards the rocks. Pinfish, Cigar minnows, and Porgies are great live baits. Live baits seems to get used faster than dead bait so make sure to have plenty.
Tip of the day. Most anglers use 80lb line and 80lb leader material when fishing for Grouper. In deeper water using lighter 60lb monofilament line and longer leaders will always get you more bites, and some times more fish. Getting more bites is what you want then you can worry about trying to land the fish. Most of the time the toughest part of the battle is the first 5 seconds when the fish first senses resistance when hooked. 60 pound line can handle the strain if the line is new and has no abrasions. Checking the terminal tackle constantly and replacing leaders that are rough will help you land more fish. A good time to check leaders and line are when you're baiting the hook. Simply remove the damaged areas of line, and replace scorn leaders and you will land more bigger fish.
Capt Rick Rodriguez |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Post Number: 18
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, August 14, 2009 - 11:32 am: | |
The inshore bite in September will be much like August. Be ready to use the same summer tactics. Getting out early to beat the summer heat is key if you want to be successful. Fishing the skinny waters of the Nature Coast around sunrise this time of year is crucial because the water temperature is as cool as it will be all day and the fish are on the move and actively feeding.
Red fish can be a challenge in September. Be ready to use a variety of baits and locations. The best bite will be towards the end of October, but if you are patient and willing to work for them you will get your reds. A great tactic is to get out early and target the many points and spoil islands in our area. I like to fish a high out going tide. A gold spoon is a great search bait. Setting up near structure like rocks,oyster bars,and mangroves and free lining cut mullet or live pin fish will also produce. As you quietly approach a area you plan to fish look for mullet jumping or creating "nervous water".
I would have to say that the trout bite has taken first place last month and will continue to be hot throughout this month. Target the deeper grass flats in 8 - 12 ft. of water. I like to throw top water plugs early while the water is calm and then fish deeper in the water column later in the day. I prefer to bounce a 1/4 ounce jig with a 3 - 4" GULP shrimp across the grass. Work these baits as slow as possible. Free lined pin fish is also producing some quality trout.These tactics have also had sea bass,mackerel,shark,jacks,blue fish,small grouper and more pulling drag. That's what I love about drift fishing the deeper grass flats, you never know what's going to hit next!
The scallop numbers continue to improve every week. Scallopers are catching their limits from Bayport to Homosassa in 4 - 8 ft. of water. Scalloping is a great way to break up the day. Fish in the morning and cool off when the summer heat kicks in by snorkeling for scallops. It just doesn't get any better than that! Remember to deploy your "diver down" flag.
Be safe out there and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 177
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, August 10, 2009 - 4:34 pm: | |
Aug 09 Gulf Grouper Deep Sea fishing Report
Little deeper and further offshore are the fishing conditions you are looking for. When you are looking to catch big Red Grouper, Gag Grouper, and Red Snapper the cooler waters in 50 feet or deeper have been the most consistent for catching fish all day long. The shallower waters have plenty of Gag Grouper and other reef fish. They just do not cooperate very long; For example, you may anchor on a reef and catch one or two Grouper then they stop eating. Additionally around 11:00 am on a sunny day it is almost impossible to get any keeper size fish to bite. There are always exception in fishing. However, Off shore the fish tend to feed longer and average length is longer. Dead Threadfin Herring are great to start off with to get the fish chewing. Then drop a live bait down and feel your rod load up when GagZilla takes off towards the rocks. Pinfish, Cigar minnows, and Porgies are great live baits. Live baits seems to get used faster than dead bait so make sure to have plenty.
Tip of the day. Most anglers use 80lb line and 80lb leader material when fishing for Grouper. In deeper water using lighter 60lb monofilament line and longer leaders will always get you more bites, and some times more fish. Getting more bites is what you want then you can worry about trying to land the fish. Most of the time the toughest part of the battle is the first 5 seconds when the fish first senses resistance when hooked. 60 pound line can handle the strain if the line is new and has no abrasions. Checking the terminal tackle constantly and replacing leaders that are rough will help you land more fish. A good time to check leaders and line are when you're baiting the hook. Simply remove the damaged areas of line, and replace scorn leaders and you will land more bigger fish.
Capt Rick Rodriguez |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 175
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, July 31, 2009 - 9:47 am: | |
Gulf Grouper Deep Sea fishing Hernando Beach Florida
This week we have been running offshore 12 hour trips and the fishing could not be better. Limits of Red Snapper and Grouper on every trip. Calm seas and warm weather equate to hot fishing in the blue water 50 miles and beyond off Hernando Beach. Mostly frozen Threadfin Herring has been used for bait along with live Pinfish. Steady fish catching action all-day, with a few surprises here and there. On a recent trip we caught a 22 pound Blackfin Tuna Cobia and Kingfish. Just goes to show you fishing is full of surprises, you never really know what you are going to catch. All you can do is make certain all the terminal tackle is perfect, drags are set, and fish where the fish are. The rest is up to the fish!
Capt Rick
www.gulfgrouper.com
727-992-9494 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 17
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Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, July 27, 2009 - 8:57 am: | |
We had great weather once again this past week. The early bite was fantastic throughout the entire area. The typical late afternoon thunderstorms came through as they often do this time of year and they produced quite a bit of lightning. It's important to pay attention to what the weather is doing and to have a escape plan if bad weather is approaching.
The backcountry is producing nice redfish early. The bite starts to slow around 10 a.m.. The summer heat will quickly raise that skinny water to the mid 90's. When the water temperature gets this hot, the fish slow down and feed less. The islands and points near Aripeka have been very rewarding to anglers the past few weeks. When fishing these areas look to the mangrove points with oyster bars. I try to start at the areas that have activity like moving schools of mullet that create nervous water and are jumping. Cut mullet and pin fish are great baits to use. White bait works well also but it can be difficult and time consuming at times to locate bait big enough to fish with. That's why I bring pinfish,creek chubs, and cut bait in case I can't locate the bait or if I don't want to waste quality fishing time throwing a net.
The flats still continues to produce quality trout from 8 - 12 ft. of water. We are also catching jacks,blue fish,sea bass,sharks,mackerel and more. I love this area because you can catch a variety of fish with one tactic. I prefer to drift fish. Throwing a GULP shrimp on a jig is not only very productive but it stays on the hook when the small baitfish are tapping at it. Work these lures slow this time of year. Small pin fish have been great baits also.
The scallop numbers were spotty at first but they seem to be improving each week. North of Bayport approx. 6 miles has produced great numbers the past week. The scallops are a little late to our area but each day they get a bit closer.
Best wishes and tight lines
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldogfishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 16
Registered: 5-2008
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Votes: 2 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, July 20, 2009 - 4:20 pm: | |
The weather this past week was beautiful giving us anglers a chance to get out on the water and wet a line. All the recent rain has cooled the gulf waters a little. This drop in temperature has fish in our area on a feeding frenzy. The best bite is still in the morning before the summer heat shuts the bite down. Try to fish the skinny water early if the tide allows and then move deeper as the day gets hotter.
The Hernando Beach channel has been a hot spot this past week. This area can be very difficult to fish at times with all the boat traffic. This traffic can cause the fish roaming the spoil islands near the channel to spook easy or force them to relocate to a quieter location. I try to fish this area on week days when there is less pressure on the fish. I also hit the water as early as I can stand it. Red fish,trout,snook,cobia,mangrove snapper, and more can all be caught here. Select shrimp or pin fish are my favorite live baits to use, and a Johnson gold spoon or scented GULP 3" shrimp on a 1/8 ounce jig. Work your lures slow, and make as long of a cast so these fish will see your presentation before they see you. Using braided line like Power Pro or Suffix gives maximum casting distance. This area will be affected with the much needed upcoming dredge but don't worry, when the dredge is finished we should have more structure to fish.
Trout have been the most consistent bite on the flats this past week. 6 - 10 ft of water has been holding great numbers of quality trout. Pin fish and New Penny GULP 3" shrimp are my baits of choice, but these guys will feed on a lot of baits. Silver spoons,Mirro-lure mirrodines,and live select shrimp are also effective tactics. The best bite is early but these fish are feeding throughout the day. I like to drift fish and cover a lot of territory. When drifting we have been catching mackerel,sea bass,lady fish,blue fish,grouper, and a lot of sharks. There are a ton of juvenile sharks in the flats right now. If you want to target some big sharks then put a chum bag out,beef up your tackle, and hang on.
Good luck out there and tight lines!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 171
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, July 08, 2009 - 12:35 pm: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Report
Warm weather equates to great fishing West of Hernando Beach. This time of the year our area reefs, and ledges are teaming with bait fish. Schools of scaled sardines, Threadfin Herring, Cigar minnows, and Ballyhoo are slowly moving north in all depths of water. In 15 feet of water near the cave schools of baitfish are under attack by Spanish Mackerel, and Gag Grouper. It is quite a sight to behold, when you observe Grouper swimming to the surface and pushing bait out of the water with explosive force. All the while Spanish Mackerel are shooting out of the water in all directions chasing their next meal. Definitely exciting fishing in close and easy to catch. Some techniques that work well to catch live bait are small bait rigs that have multiple hooks in a line and a small weight at the end (Sabiki Rig). Catching the same bait that the fish around you are eating will always ensure successful hook ups.
Once you have caught some bait try to use spinning tackle that will enable you to present the bait to the fish away from your boat, ( 15 to 20 pound line) works best. Allow your bait to swim by opening the bail and providing line so it can swim naturally. Do not try to feel a fish bite; the line will move fast off the reel when the bait has been eaten. After you notice the bait has been ate set the hook and fight your fish. This technique is very good in deeper water also. Kingfish, Snapper, Grouper, and Amberjack love a free swimming bait.
See you on the water,
Capt Rick
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Post Number: 168
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, July 01, 2009 - 7:06 pm: | |
Spanish Mackerel, Grunt, Mangrove Snapper, Sharks and Kingfish are abundant and fun to catch on light line . Large schools of bait are still moving north though our area, fishing continues to be very good. |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 165
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, June 16, 2009 - 7:18 pm: | |
Hernando Beach Gulf Grouper Report
Summer time grouper fishing tactics are required to consistently catch fish. We know how, and are ready to show you the tricks of the trade. Plenty of Gag and Red grouper in the area. Dead Threadfin Herring and live Pinfish are both working well with great results.
Spanish Mackerel, Grunts & Mangrove Snapper are abundant and fun to catch on light line . Since large schools of bait are still moving north though our area it is likely fishing will continue to be very good.
See you on the water,
Capt Rick
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
joel gant (Fishdaddyjoe)
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Username: Fishdaddyjoe
Post Number: 1
Registered: 6-2009
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, June 11, 2009 - 11:27 am: | |
Summer time is here ! The days are longer and the sun is hot. So is the trout, mackerel, sea bass, grouper and shark bite. They are in the 6 - 10 foot flats area. You can throw just about anything and hook up, artificial like jigs, spoons and Gulp bounced on the bottom will get you a tight line. If you have them, small pinfish will get you a "Gator Trout". The redfish are in the backwater areas with the higher high tides we've been having. They are taking top water lures, gold spoons and cut or live bait. Always keep a heavier rod on board, there are alot of cobia, shark and tarpon on the flat right now. Always check the weather this time of year, the thunder storms can come up quickly. Be safe and catch fish ! check out my website fishdaddycharter.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 163
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, June 07, 2009 - 4:29 pm: | |
American Red Snapper are one of the most delicious fish available to anglers in the Gulf of Mexico west of Hernando Beach. To the surprise of many anglers these fish are not hard to catch once you find them. Most of the time Red Snapper are found in depths greater than forty feet and relate to most bottom structure. Snapper tend to congregate around and above Reefs, ledges, wrecks, and hard bottom areas. To catch Red Snapper, an angler simply has to get a bait close to the structure and wait for the fish to bite. One terminal tackle method that has proven to be effective is the standard bottom rig, that consists of a sinker, a swivel, 4 feet of leader material, and a circle hook. Another method is the “knocker rig”, that consists of a circle hook and a lead sinker that slides freely on the line to the eye of the hook. Dead bait, Live bait, Squid, Mullet, Pinfish, Cigar Minnows, Northern Mackerel, and Threadfin Herring; are all acceptable for catching Snapper. Most of the time when you discover Snapper, they are in schools and compete for the bait presented to them. Lastly, be prepared for Gag, and Red Grouper they usually inhabit the same areas. Fishing for the American Red Snapper is exciting and well worth the expense and time to run off-shore. Keep in mind, the daily bag limit for Red Snapper is two fish per person.
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 159
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, May 25, 2009 - 9:14 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Florida, near Orlando, Disney, and Tampa
On land it may be raining. However off-shore in the Gulf of Mexico the weather and the fishing could not be better. Limits of grouper is an everyday occurrence with many Cobia, Kingfish, Mangrove Snapper, Sharks, and Grunts. All anglers on the Gulf Grouper are having a blast catching fish all-day. Check out the photos page on www.gulfgrouper.com to verify the results. Summer is on its way and the fishing forecast looks great. Plenty of fish under the boat all the time all year long. The secret to catching fish is to fish where the fish are.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 156
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, May 14, 2009 - 2:38 pm: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Florida, near Orlando, Disney, and Tampa
The weather has been ideal for Grouper and any other type of fishing lately. Unbelievable fishing trips in the Gulf of Mexico. We have been catching surprises daily; sometimes big sharks, Cobias, Dolphin, and big Kingfish. Luckily we are prepared for surprises, and close the deal on these great fish. Grouper fishing is still nonstop and you will get tired of reeling in fish. Watching people have to take a break is a sign of great fishing. We look forward to more action every day we get out.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 153
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, May 07, 2009 - 4:17 pm: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Florida, near Orlando, Disney, and Tampa
Year round Grouper fishing is always good somewhere off-shore from Hernando Beach. So when the Kingfish show up like they have lately it is a welcome treat. Fishing for Kingfish requires different techniques to ensure a productive outing on the water. Most anglers prefer chumming while using live scaled Sardines, Threadfin Herring, Blue Runners, and Shad. Live bait is an outstanding method to catch Kingfish and is very effective. Other methods are productive and enable an angler to go fishing without spending hours pursuing live bait. Lures like 3.5 spoons, inline jigs, stick baits trolled with a planner work well and can be used with little preparation first thing in the morning. Usually the most active big Kingfish bite is night and early morning hours. There are a multitude of methods that work well for Kingfish so come out to Hernando Beach and get your Kingfish with your Grouper.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 152
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, May 01, 2009 - 6:24 pm: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Fla, Grouper Country
Gag Groupers and Kingfish are making our trips allot of fun. Thanks to the abundance of Gag Grouper in the area we are experiencing non-stop fishing fun. The Kingfish are moving north and are west of Hernando Beach right now. We are having a ball catching Kingfish on dead bait and lures. The nice thing about catching Kingfish is once you find them they will eat a variety of lures and bait. Most of the time they are not picky!
Sharks are moving through also, we are catching them every day we go out. Some are bigger than others, all are tough fighters. Real exciting fishing this time of the year. Give me call and book a trip of a life time.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 149
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, April 17, 2009 - 2:28 pm: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Fla, Grouper Country
Gag Groupers and Kingfish are making our trips allot of fun. Thanks to the abundance of Gag Grouper in the area we are experiencing non-stop fishing fun. The Kingfish are moving north and are west of Hernando Beach right now. We are having a ball catching Kingfish on dead bait and lures. The nice thing about catching Kingfish is once you find them they will eat a variety of lures and bait. Most of the time they are not picky!
Sharks are moving through also, we are catching them every day we go out. Some are bigger than others, all are tough fighters. Real exciting fishing this time of the year. Give me call and book a trip of a life time.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 148
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, April 07, 2009 - 6:53 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Fla, Grouper Country
Now anglers can keep Gag Grouper! Of course, we are catching allot of Gag Grouper. We have been catching our limit every day we go and releasing the rest. Along with the Gag grouper we are catching Mangrove Snapper, Grunts, Sea Bass, Spanish Mackerel, Sharks, and Kingfish. Needless to say we are having nonstop action catching fish all day. Frozen Threadfin Herring, cut up Grunt, and live Pinfish are the baits we prefer.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 145
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, March 28, 2009 - 12:19 pm: | |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date:
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Fla, Grouper Country
Grouper, Grunts, Sea-bass, Mangrove Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, and Kingfish are what is happening in the Gulf waters west of Hernando Beach. Still nonstop action all-day with dead and live bait. We have been catching keeper size Gag Grouper every day we go out. Trolling has produced allot of Spanish, Kings, and Grouper throughout the day. Have fun catching fish all day; consider calling me for a great fishing trip aboard the Gulf Grouper. Hernando Beach's Full time 6 passenger or less Charter boat.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 141
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, March 23, 2009 - 3:40 pm: | |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Fla, Grouper Country
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
24 March 09
Grouper, Grunts, Mangrove Snapper, and Spanish Mackerel are what is happening in the Gulf water west of Hernando Beach. Nonstop action all-day with dead and live bait. Still catching plenty of Gag Grouper every day we go out.
Forecast: Looking for Kingfish to show up any day. Lately, Sharks, Bonita's and small Cobia are around.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 15
Registered: 5-2008
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Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 - 5:02 pm: | |
Spring weather is here and the flats and backcountry fishing in Hernando Beach has been HOT! The redfish bite has improved since the water has warmed. They have moved out a bit to the points near mangroves and oyster bars.Working the shore line with a gold spoon or setting up on one of these points with shrimp,pinfish,or cutbait on a strong moving tide has been the best tactic.Remember, when there are mullet in the area then there will probably be redfish and other fish moving with them so be sure to work any areas with this kind of activity.
Big trout are being caught throughout the flats. We are getting trout from 20 - 25 inches on a regular basis. Using top water plugs at the rock piles in 4 - 10 foot of water early in the morning is producing very well.We are starting to catch nice size mackerel on spoons or shrimp placed under a cork.
The bluefish bite is still non-stop at some of our rock piles in the flats. Top water plugs are the best and the most fun. Our trips have also been producing a lot of black drum fron 15 - to 25 inches.We have been limiting out often.Target the deeper cuts and channels and freeline shrimp with a small split shot to get it near the bottom and hold on.
Good luck out there and tight lines!!
Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 138
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, March 06, 2009 - 2:30 pm: | |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date:
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Fla, Grouper Country
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
6 March 09
Grouper, Grunts, Sea-bass, Mangrove Snapper, and the occasional Spanish Mackerel are what is happening in the Gulf water west of Hernando Beach. Nonstop action all-day with dead and live bait. We have been catching upwards of 10 keeper size Gag Grouper most every day we go out. Each angler has been averaging 30 short Grouper and a multitude of other reef fish. Sounds like fun doesn't it? Well, it is! So if you want to have fun catching fish all day; consider calling me for a trip of a lifetime aboard the Gulf Grouper. Hernando Beach's Full time Private Charter boat.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 135
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 - 10:52 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
18 Feb 2009
Grouper fishing has been unbelievable. Yesterday we caught 13 keeper size Gag Groupers and a cooler full of Grunts; 6 of the Gags were way over 10 pounds. Steady action all day long everyday this week and weekend, over a hundred short Gag and Red Groupers released safely on dead bait. There is absolutely no shortage of Gag Grouper in the Gulf of Mexico. If you are ready to catch fish call me; I always know where the Grouper are. Check out my website and see photos from yesterday and previous 4 days fishing.
Tip of the week: Down size line, Hooks, and weights to get more bites!
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 131
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, February 02, 2009 - 5:46 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
2 Feb 2009
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: Grouper fishing has been great. Yesterday we caught a dozen keeper size Gag Groupers and a cooler full of Grunts. Steady action all day long, over a hundred short Gag and Red Groupers released safely on dead bait. Live bait for whatever reason has not been working for us. Maybe when the water warms up a bit the Grouper will be more aggressive and chase down the live bait. If you are ready to catch fish call me; I always know where the Grouper are.
Tip of the week: Down size line, Hooks, and weights to get more bites!
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 126
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, January 20, 2009 - 1:03 pm: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
20 Jan 2009
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: Larger Gag Grouper will continue to hang around with the stable water temperatures. Maybe a little deeper than normal but not a problem for an allday trip. The rest of January looks good for weather and great fishing. Look forward to big fish days as we move into February. If you are ready to catch fish call me; I know where the Grouper are.
Tip of the week: Fish slower and chum a little to get the Grouper bite going. Look for the Grouper around the larger reef areas.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 121
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, January 12, 2009 - 5:30 pm: | |
Still catching Grouper. Today was windy but productive. Nice Gags, monster redfish, and Mangrove Snapper. Come out and fish with the Gulf Grouper who is always ready to. On the water catching grouper and providing you a honest fishing report. Call me for more details |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 10
Registered: 5-2008
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, January 12, 2009 - 10:03 am: | |
The inshore bite in Hernando Beach is heating up! Redfish, trout, and sheephead are being caught throughout the area. Centipede, Bayport, Aripeka, and Fillman's Bayou served up good size reds this past month. They are inside and at the points of creeks and rivers. Our best bite is early morning or late afternoon. Cut mullet or ladyfish freelined near the mangroves has been the best bait. Trout seem to be in water 3 - 6 ft. Try freelining shrimp or put them under a popping cork . pieces of shrimp on a #2 hook(with a splitshot) tossed to the deeper inshore holes will likely get a sheephead to bend a rod.
When the water cools from a passing front we hit our many springs and spring fed rivers of the area which pump thousands gallons of water a day of 72 degree water into the gulf. Trout, snook, redfish, ladyfish, sheephead, jacks among others all retreat to these areas to warmer water.
Tight lines!! Capt. Keith Tomlinson
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
(352)238-3581 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 120
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 31, 2008 - 4:30 pm: | |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date:
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Location: Hernando Beach Fla, Grouper Country
Great Gag Grouper fishing now and through the new year. Plenty of Grouper to be caught. No problems finding fish, no shortage of fish. More fish this year than years previous. Call me for the truth on Grouper fishing. Have fun catching all the Grouper you want even in Feb or March. Grouper are plentiful and are not endangered we catch and release over 100 grouper alive on most trips! If you want nonstop action catching fish come out with me on the Gulf Grouper. |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 117
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, December 20, 2008 - 9:21 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
20 Dec 2008
Awesome Grouper fishing here in the waters west of Hernando Beach. Plenty of good size Gag Grouper in all depths of water. 10 to 15 keeper size Grouper each trip has been the norm for a few months now. We hope this will continue in the weeks to come. Water temperatures have stabilized around 67 degrees and fishing has been very consistent. Additionally, we have caught plenty of large Grunts, Sea bass, and Mangrove Snapper along with the Grouper.
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: Larger Gag Grouper will continue to hang around with the stable water temperature.
Tip of the week: Fish slower and chum a little to get the Grouper bite going. Look for the Grouper around the larger reef areas.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 109
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, December 05, 2008 - 2:55 pm: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
05 December 2008
In between cold fronts the water temperature has gone up to 67 degrees and the Grouper fishing is outstanding. With perfect water conditions come spectacular fishing trips. Many anglers this week enjoyed limits of Gag Grouper. Some fish were in excess of 15 pounds. A slow approach has been the trick to make the Grouper bite. Just leave the bait on the bottom and do not move it. Unbelievable, but true this really works. Best baits are still Northern Mackerel , Grunt heads, and chunks of Mullet.
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: Grouper season is at its peak. There is great fishing now!
Sea ya on the water
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 106
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, November 30, 2008 - 3:40 pm: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
01 December 2008
The water temperature dropped so fast that the easy in close Grouper fishing slowed down. Moving off- shore a little to warmer fishing locations made catching Grouper consistent. Little more time running paid off with big Groupers in the box. Larger Northern Mackerel baits made the difference this week. Larger baits stay together longer while the Grunts and other reef fish attack it. Grouper sometimes move slower this time of the year; the larger bait holds up long enough for the Grouper to find and eat it. Small adjustments in bait and depth of water will ensure more consistent catches during sudden changes in water temperature.
Best baits are still Northern Mackerel , Grunt heads, and chunks of Mullet.
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: Grouper season is at its peak. There is great fishing now!
Sea ya on the water
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt. Keith Tomlinson (Bulldogfishin)
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Username: Bulldogfishin
Post Number: 3
Registered: 5-2008
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 - 12:45 pm: | |
Bulldog fishin charters/Hernando Beach
www.bulldogfishin.com
Captain Keith Tomlinson
The redfish have been hot north of bayport op to chasshowitzka. Thes big red “fire trucks” are always a blast on light tackle and they really will put your angling skills to the test. The trout bite has slowed a little with this cold weather but the mackerel are still in good numbers.
On calm days we have been going offshore a little to 8 -12 feet of water and have been catching the famous shallow water grouper famous for this area of the nature coast. Gulf Grouper with captain rick rodriguez and thunder party boat with captain mike senker have been catching grouper at all depths of water but in the spring and fall even us inshore guys get to enjoy the grouper action in the shallows.
Come enjoy the nature coast with me!!! call for a reservation. #(352)238-3581
We supply:
tackle
fishing liscense
coolers/ice
clean your fish
a good safe day on the water
 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 101
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, November 15, 2008 - 10:11 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
15 Nov 2008
This week has been the easy Grouper fishing we have been waiting for. Lots of keeper size GAG Grouper in all depths of water. We prefer the shallow waters closer to home that provide us more fishing time and less fuel expense. Even if you are not a meat hunter you can enjoy the tough fight a big grouper dishes out. In the shallow depths a fight to the surface is expected with line ripping lunges towards the structure on the bottom. Pretty exciting stuff! Most GagZillas continue to break lines and leaders on the rocks below. This line busting experience is what makes most anglers want to go back out and try again.
Best baits are still Threadfin Herring , Grunt heads, and chunks of Boston Mackerel.
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: Grouper season is almost at its peak. There will be great fishing in the near future for lots of Gag Grouper in close.
Sea ya on the water, book a trip soon!
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 96
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, November 03, 2008 - 4:17 pm: | |
Capt. Rick Rodriguez
November 3, 2008
Hernando Beach - Saltwater Fishing Report
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
3 Nov 2008
Like all previous reports I will explain to the fishing community; Grouper fishing is very good here in the Hernando Beach area. We are catching GAG Groupers, Red Groupers, Grunts, Mangrove Snapper, and Spanish Mackerel. The water temperature is a perfect 73 degrees, perfect for bigger Grouper. Dead Threadfin Herring are still the best bait even though other baits will work. The water clarity is improving so live bait will begin to work more often than not. Preferred method is dead bait, 4 foot long leaders, and please match the circle hook size in proportion to the size bait you are using.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast:
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: More King fish will be in the area after the next cold front passes. Larger Gag Grouper will be pushed down also as the water temperature continues to drop. Fish slower and chum a little to get the Grouper bite going.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 89
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, October 24, 2008 - 5:39 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
24 October 2008
Grouper fishing is still very good, we have been catching allot of small Red and Gag Groupers. Nonstop action each day, we consistently catch over a hundred fish that are released. At the end of the day we have enough keeper size Grouper to make any angler happy. Many Mangrove Snapper, and Grunts are caught each trip and are a welcome addition to any fish fry. The best baits are Threadfin Herring and live Pinfish. Water temperature is down to the mid 70's now, and the Grouper are much more active. We expect some outstanding Grouper action for the near future.
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: More King fish will be in the area after the next cold front passes. Larger Gag Grouper will be pushed down also as the water temperature continues to drop. Fish slower and chum a little to get the Grouper bite going.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 83
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, October 16, 2008 - 7:22 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach
16 October 2008
Grouper fishing is good, we have been catching allot of small Red and Gag Groupers. Each day we catch over a hundred fish that are released. At the end of the day we usually have enough keeper size Grouper to make anyone happy. The Kingfish are starting to show up here and there; however the Spanish Mackerel are all over the place in all depths of water. Many Mangrove Snapper and Grunts are caught each trip and are a welcome addition to any fish fry. The best baits are Threadfin Herring and live Pinfish.
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast: More King fish will be in the area after the next cold front passes. Larger Gag Grouper will be pushed down also as the water temperature continues to drop. Fish slower and chum a little to get the Grouper bite going.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
New member
Username: Gulfgrouper
Post Number: 82
Registered: 8-2005
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, September 29, 2008 - 2:11 pm: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
28 September 2008
Days are shorter and the water temperature is falling close to 80 degrees. Subtle changes in the environment indicate fall is on its way. Fishing has been good and now it is even better. This past weekend we really enjoyed catching Mangrove Snapper over three pounds. Lots of bigger Grunts, and a cooler full of big Gag Grouper. Depth of water did not seem to matter; the fishing was great everywhere we dropped our anchor. Large schools of bait were working their way south. Unfortunately the bait fish were under attack by Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Bonita's, and bottom fish like Grouper and Snapper. An amazing event to witness; more action than we have seen in months.
FORECAST: The next few weeks should be exciting. We look forward to the Kingfish and More Grouper. October 5th the Stone crab traps go in the water. The smell of the bait will bring in more Groupers to the shallow areas.
Sea ya on the water,
Capt Rick
727-992-9494 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Post Number: 80
Registered: 8-2005
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, August 31, 2008 - 11:43 am: | |
Charter Boat Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
30 Aug 2008
Grouper fishing is much better now! We are still catching plenty of Mangrove Snapper, Grunts, and other fish. It is warm out, and it is nice to fish in the shade, the "Gulf Grouper" has a roof. Escaping the direct rays of the sun makes a fun day fishing even more enjoyable.
Gustav will drive even more Grouper in our direction. Next week looks like a great week to catch more Grouper. Friday's fishing trip was outstanding. A dozen nice Gags and a few Red Grouper kept all anglers happy.
Hope to sea ya on the water soon.
Capt Rick |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, August 10, 2008 - 7:28 am: | |
Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
10 Aug 2008
Mangrove Snapper are still cooperating more than other fish. Grouper fishing is ok. Lots of short Gag and Red Grouper are being caught every day we get out ( 50 -100 fish) released. A few keeper size manage to find their way up to the boat. Constant action fishing is still the norm. The Snapper are a great sports fish that fight hard all the way to the surface. At the end of the day you can expect some Grouper, Snapper, Grunts and maybe a Cobia.
Sea you on the water,
Capt Rick
727-992-9494
rick@gulfgrouper.com
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast:
More Mangrove Snapper Grouper, Grunts, Sharks, and some Cobias. |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, May 01, 2008 - 3:10 pm: | |
Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
1 May 2008
Hernando Beach Florida
Fishing has been consistent in the waters west of Hernando Beach. Every fishing trip has been very productive for Grouper, Grunts, Spanish mackerel, and Mangrove Snapper. Water temperature and water clarity have been ideal for Gag Grouper fishing. Dead bait, like Threadfin Herring is still the best choice; however live Pinfish are working better & better everyday.
Sea ya on the water!
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, January 16, 2008 - 9:21 am: | |
Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
15 Jan 2008
Grunts and Grouper are the big event in January. We are having a great time fishing everyday we get out. Non-stop short Grouper catch and release action throughout the day using frozen bait. Our anglers are really enjoying the large Sea Bass that they are catching. Sea Bass are fun to catch and great to eat. We are still catching our share of big Gag Grouper on our local reefs west of Hernando Beach. So come out and spend a great day on the water with us and fish the Gulf of Mexico.
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
rick@gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, January 02, 2008 - 10:10 am: | |
Gulf Grouper Deep Sea Fishing Report
Jan 2008
One of the warmest winters in near history and the water temperature is in the low 70’s. After this cold front temperatures should go down a few degrees again to the high 60’s. After this weather passes through the Grouper fishing will be great. Look for the bigger ledges to hold the most Grouper Grunts, and Mangrove Snapper. We are still catching upwards of a hundred short Gag Groupers every trip. Non stop action is the norm when using dead Threadfin Herring. Some anglers have used live bait with marginal success. However if you want to catch the bigger Grouper try larger dead bait like Grunt and mullet heads.
Good luck
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, November 27, 2007 - 3:33 am: | |
Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
27 November 2007
Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, and Grunts are plentiful in the waters west of off Hernando Beach. This year has been outstanding for bottom fishing in all depths of water. We have continuously caught great numbers of fish. The last few weeks fishing trips have been nothing short of outstanding. Anglers have enjoyed constant rod bending action throughout each fishing day aboard the Gulf Grouper. Observe the photos page on www.gulfgrouper.com “pictures are worth a million words”. Frozen Threadfin Herring is the bait we have used along with cut up Grunts. Fresh cut mullet has been outstanding bait in some of the shallow fishing areas. Come out and see how we get things done. I am certain you will get your bang for the buck.
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2007 - 3:05 pm: | |
Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
31 Oct 2007
Spooky weather lately! Lots of wind and rain and falling water temperatures. Fishing for Grouper has been outstanding prior to this change of weather. I am certain fishing will be even better when the wind subsides. Every year this happens in the fall and the Grouper fishing is spectacular. Mostly dead bait will do the trick in the murky waters after a front. Boston Mackerel, Mullet, and Threadfin Herring are best. I look forward to fishing this fall; it is going to be fun.
Capt Rick
727-992-9494
gulfgrouper.com
rick@gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, October 22, 2007 - 1:41 pm: | |
Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
22 October 2007
This year has been outstanding for Grouper fishing. We have had great catches of Grouper, Grunts, Mangrove Snapper, and other sport fish throughout the year. It is not difficult to believe fishing has improved exponentially when review the photos of the last couple weeks on www.gulfgrouper.com. We are truly enjoying our selves! Lots of Grouper and a few big ones everyday are common. Live bait dead bait it really does not make a difference. Fishing is as good as it’s ever been in recent years.
Capt Rick
Gulfgrouper.com
727-992-9494 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 2 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, October 11, 2007 - 6:06 pm: | |
Gulf Grouper fishing Report
5 Oct 2007
The water is cooling off and the stone crab traps are being set right now. This combination of events will entice Groupers to move around from area to area. Schools of Gag Grouper are not an uncommon event but a part of their normal life. When you catch one Gag Grouper nine out of ten times you can bet there is another one swimming down there. With this in mind it is easy to locate Gags around large rock areas and reefs. With each approaching cold front there are a couple days of strong windy conditions. These events seem to bunch Groupers up were they can seek refuge from turbulent waters. So naturally when boating conditions improve anglers can go to their favorite rock pile and find it replenished with hungry Groupers. It may not be as easy as explained but it is true.
Lately Gag Grouper have been cooperating in 20 to 25 feet of water. Frozen and live bait have both worked exceptionally well. There have been quit a few goliath groupers also. Mangrove Snapper are still an everyday occurrence with some Cobia and Kingfish.
Good Luck fishing
Capt Rick Rodriguez
Guldfgrouper.com
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Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, September 17, 2007 - 4:44 pm: | |
September 5, 2007 Gulf grouper Report
Mangrove Snapper
Night Fishing for Mangrove Snapper in September is a great way to spend an evening with family and friends. Recently we have been having a lot of fun catching mangrove Snapper on most of the big reefs west of Hernando Beach. Spinning tackle with 15 pound line and live shrimp are a killer combo when fishing for Mangroves. Anchor up current from the reef and lightly chum with glass minnows. The Mangrove Snapper will come up to the surface a few feet from behind the back of the boat looking for more. During the dark they will stay aggressive and continue to eat unless the sharks come around; then things get tricky. Don’t be too surprised if you get in to the Spanish mackerel and other toothy critters. Sometimes Grouper will respond as well, so be prepared with heavier tackle near by.
Good luck on your next trip!
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
www.gulfgrouper.com |
CaptainIDS (Captainids)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, September 05, 2007 - 10:01 am: | |
Are you a Licensed Coast Guard Captain?
This is for you
http://www.captainids.com/ |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Post Number: 60
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Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, August 30, 2007 - 12:57 am: | |
Gulf Grouper fishing Report
29 Aug 2007
Grouper, Grunts, and Mangrove Snappers are biting like crazy. Lots of action with short Grouper and big break offs from Zilla and his buddies. Most fish have been caught in 38 feet of water. There are few sharks and Barracuda out there trying there best to eat our Grouper while we reel them up. These toothy critters add to the excitement of great summer fishing. Most days we are seeing schools of small Cobia near the boat. They are fun to catch on light tackle.
The best baits of choice continue to be Threadfin Herring and Live Pinfish.
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, August 19, 2007 - 11:28 am: | |
Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
Hernando Beach Florida
Grouper fishing is still good around 35 feet of water. Some of the inshore areas are producing Big Gags in the early morning hours and during overcast days. The fish are available but seem to escape from the heat like we do. Offshore, no problem, start off with dead bait and finish off with live bait. Pinfish are doing the trick. Spot tail pin’s and regular pin’s have been working equally well. Mangrove Snapper and Grunts are very active in all depths of water. Cut up threadfins continue to get plenty of bites when flat lined down current with no weight or leader. Straight 15lb line is more than enough to land these fish.
Capt Rick Rodriguez
Gulfgrouper.com
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Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, August 06, 2007 - 6:41 pm: | |
Gulf Grouper Report
7 Aug 2007
Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Grunts, Cobia, and Sharks are cooperating in 35 feet of water west off of Hernando Beach. We are catching 6 to 10 keepers daily on mostly dead Threadfin Herring. It has been the norm to catch over seventy short Grouper each day. Needless to say steady action makes the day go by quick. The water color is still light green with about 15 feet of visibility. Calm seas with scattered thunder storms equate to good fishing and fun times. Give me a call if you are ready to catch some fish.
Best regards,
Capt Rick
Gulfgrouper.com
727-992-9494 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, August 02, 2007 - 1:30 pm: | |
Gulf Grouper Report
2 August 2007
Grouper fishing in the Hernando Beach area has been very good! We are still catching most of our bigger grouper on cut bait. Some fish have been caught on Pinfish, and Sand perch around the large ledges. The over cast skies and rain has cooled the surface water temperature. This cooling trend has made Grouper fishing fairly easy. Large Grunts, Mangrove Snapper, and sharks are an everyday occurrence.
Let’s go Fishing
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, July 19, 2007 - 4:56 pm: | |
Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
19 July 2007
Have you ever been fishing and thought to your self; why aren’t I catching fish? Some times the fish just won’t bite, most of the time it is a matter of presentation. Fish like “Grouper, and Grunts” move around often. They are highly migratory and move to where they can find food. Most of the time the food Grouper and Grunts like to eat is around structure “reef, wrecks, and ledges.” Locating a secret area that is holding fish is almost impossible. Areas that get fishing pressure from many anglers often require lighter line, leaders, weights, and smaller hooks in order to get bit. Chumming will encourage fish to become more active and cooperative. Chumming with blocks of chum or chunks of bait will increase your odds of catching more Grunts and Grouper.
Lately we have caught just as many Grouper as we have during any other time of the year. I have listened to many discouraging reports of slow fishing. I still have not noticed any decline in fishing action. Every trip has been action packed and many large Grouper that can not be stopped continue to humble the boldest of anglers. Grouper action has been constant all day in 28 feet of water and beyond west of Hernando beach. Most everyday we are catching small Cobias, Spanish mackerel, Mangrove Snapper, and sharks.
Give me a call if you are ready to catch some fish!
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, July 07, 2007 - 7:32 am: | |
No Two Fishing Days Are The Same
04 July 2007 Gulf Grouper Fishing Report
The summer heat is on but everyday reveals new Grouper catching methods. For example, two days ago we were catching only a few keeper size Grouper. The few fish we did catch had their belly’s full of 1 inch long minnows. Each Grouper we caught would spit up hundreds of these minnows. We down sized our tackle to more closely resemble what the Grouper were eating. Sure enough the rods were bent and we caught a respectable cooler full of fish. In our shallow fishing areas it is not uncommon to see and catch grouper near the surface. Anglers fishing for trout often catch grouper on top water lures and many Grouper have come to the surface and take a trolled Kingfish rig. Main point to ponder; try to pay attention to what is going on in the environment sometimes nature will tell you what is best to use.
Most stable Grouper action has been in thirty feet or deeper. On overcast mornings the shallow waters have produced some 10 pound and bigger fish. Live bait (Pinfish, Grunts, White Bait, and Sand Perch) used after dead bait has been more productive overall.
When in doubt use a four foot 80lb leader, 3ounce sinker, a swivel, and a 8/0 hook with a dead threadfin Herring or a live Pinfish.
Good Luck Fishing,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
Gulfgrouper.com
727-992-9494 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 6:10 pm: | |
The water is very Hot
Hot water does mean good fishing! Most anglers think that the Grouper move out of shallow water to deeper water. This is not always true. Some Grouper may move to cooler deeper waters; however there are plenty of fish that will always stick around in close. These fish are a little tricky to catch unless you understand their behavior. Just remember these fish will bite first thing in the morning late in the afternoon and during bad weather. A little chum goes a long way and now is the time to use live pinfish and sand perch.
Fish with a loose line and a lite 2 ounce sinker. Observe the movement in the line instead of feeling for a bite. Believe me you will know when a grouper bites. So, slack up and get bit!
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
Gulfgrouper.com |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 3:07 am: | |
17 June 2007 Gulf Grouper Report
Warmer waters have improved fishing for Mangrove Snapper, Grouper, Grunts, and King Mackerel. At present the water temperature is around 86 degrees on the surface. Some inshore areas have plenty of Grouper; however they seem to cooperate only during the first few hours of the morning. More consistent fishing activity starts around 25 feet of water and beyond. Large schools of bait are still pushing towards the north and following them are the Spanish and King Mackerel. In short, fishing is very good for a variety of different fish. Presentation in catching fish this time of the year often requires lighter line, leaders, and weight. Live bait can be very productive especially when used after dead baits have been presented for a while.
Good luck fishing,
Capt Rick Rodriguez
Gulfgrouper.com
727-992-9494 |
Capt Rick Rodriguez (Gulfgrouper)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2007 - 1:11 am: | |
Gulf Grouper Deep Sea fishing Report
6 June 2007
Grouper fishing is still great! Everyday we are catching keeper size Grouper and we are releasing on most days more than one hundred short Grouper. Needless to say it has been non stop action. Along with the Grouper are great numbers of Mangrove Snappers. Even during the day we have been catching them on light spinning outfits with no leader and no weight. If you’re ready for a great fishing trip on the Gulf give me a call.
Capt Rick Rodriguez
727-992-9494
gulfgrouper.com |
Fishing-Rods (Unregistered Guest)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, February 05, 2006 - 9:07 am: | |
This months report is typical for this time of year. January was an up and down month, depending mainly on the cold fronts and what type of seas and water temperature we had.
Mostly, the grouper bite was slow and the fish very reluctant to bite with the cold water. We did have about a five day period around the 20th of the month when the weather warmed, the water temp got up above 62 degrees and the grouper bite turned on.
Expect this pattern to continue through the month of February. When the weather allows, the most productive area has been around the second break - 28ft. to 32ft. and deeper. The best indicator has been the water temp. and water clarity. When the surface temp. reaches at least 63 degrees and you have average clarity in the water, chances are you'll find fish feeding close to structure. Be patient, provide plenty of chum, and use the smelly baits: sardines with squid, mullet and fresh cut bait have been working best.
Don't give up, Spring will soon be here! Speaking of Spring; FISHING-RODS BAIT & TACKLE will be holding its 3RD Annual "HERNANDO BEACH GROUPER TOURNAMENT" Saturday, April 22nd. This is
a great tournament for Charity, so visit our website at "fishingrodsshop.com" or come by our shop in Hernando Beach across from the Public Boat ramps to get more information.
See you next month! |
Always Fishing (Unregistered Guest)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, January 09, 2006 - 6:32 pm: | |
Always Fishing Guide Service
Spring Hill, Hernando County, Florida
Lower Nature Coast
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Ah! The unpredictable January weather, leading into February fishing fun… A lot of what February has to offer comes from January either being kind or not. The cold fronts determine when and where the fish will be biting. Lately even the best of us get skunked, but mostly when we go fishing the day after the cold front passes. A charter captain is on the water in some cases more than the average person so we tend to find more fishing spots that work on bad day’s, but even with all the experience we accumulate we still have bad luck days. I have been truly lucky with many great grouper fishing trips but not so luck in the flats. I have been fishing all my great spots but the water is clear and cold. Even the bait fish are buried or heading for the warmer waters of the backwater. I have to tell you no matter how bad it gets I still love to be out on the water. I was telling you about the good luck I have had fishing for grouper well it was not because I got lucky. The reason I did well is I used a plan for my success which I will share with you. I set up a number of spots south, west and north of were I am launching. I go south and hit a couple of places and if it does not produce I move to the west spots if that don’t produce I go to the north spots. If I find any fish at all I stay in the area that includes any fish I catch. If you didn’t know grouper will only usually eat one big meal a day when the water is super cold as there metabolism slows down and the fish do not move around much. One great way to know if you’re going to do well on any fishing trip is to visit the local tackle store and see if he has shrimp. Now two things, if he has many shrimp fishing will be good but if not and he says the shrimp boats are not catching many shrimp, look for things to be slow in the shallow waters. Once you see the bait shops with giant shrimp hit all your shallow water rocks you know the fish will be out eating the large shrimp. If you like artificial bait fishing look for springs or fish the power plants as the water is warmer and the fish will be more aggressive.
The backwaters are teaming with fish and my shallow water boat has been in need of painting so! You guessed it, I am painting it. I have had reports from Capt Tim Burke and Double trouble charters that the fishing is getting better and better in the backwaters. As the days get longer the flats will once again produce large amounts of fish. I have seen this so many times in the past twenty years. The clear water allows you to see the bottom and if you’re like me piloting the boat looking for signs of fish, even bait. Wow you say”there is nothing left in the gulf” not to despair the fish are just hiding or should I say buried up, soon all will be OK and you will forget about the cold clear water.
Tight lines till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office: 352-666-6234
http://www.alwaysfishing.com |
Fishing Rods (Unregistered Guest)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, January 08, 2006 - 4:35 am: | |
Its been a few months since our last report. Now we are in the middle of our winter fishing pattern which means you have to change your mind set on fishing out here on the Nature Coast. With the cold fronts coming in every three to four days, the windows of opportunity to get offshore are limited, so if you want to spend more time on the water, target something different from grouper and fish Inshore.
Here are the best bets around the Hernando Beach area. Our customers are reporting good Sheephead fishing on the shallow rockpiles; South-rack, Middle-rock and Cutter-rock have all been producing some nice fish. Next, Trout can be found around the cutter-Rock area along with some decent Bluefish. They have moved to this area over the last few days due to the nice sunny days we had last week. With this present cold front, my guess is they will move back to creek mouths and channels and then move to the flats when the sun is high. Next, redfish continue to provide good action. Plenty of smaller "Rat" reds are being reported so treat them carefully for a good release. Most of the reds are inside around Minnow Creek, Jenkins Creek, and Filmans Bayou.
Finally, Grouper are out in the deeper waters. Best catches are coming from the 55ft to 65ft range. Thats not to say grouper are not in the shallower water, its just too cold!, 58 degrees and they are not feeding. Cut baits, squid and sardines are working best.
Thats our winter fishing pattern and it will probably stay this way until March. Pick your days carefully and enjoy your fishing time. Good luck!
Fishing Rods Bait and Tackle is located on Hernando Beach directly across from the public boat ramps. Come by and see us and tell us some fish stories! |
Always Fishing (Unregistered Guest)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, December 16, 2005 - 5:57 pm: | |
Always Fishing Guide Service
Spring Hill, Hernando County, Florida
The lower Nature Coast
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Posted 12.15.05
There are no words that can explain the fall transformation into winter fishing. Cold front after cold front dropped the water temp to fifty eight and that is a normal temperature for winter in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This sudden drop in water temperature has the fish thinking winter is here and not willing to go away too soon. Along with the dropping temperature another major fact in our fishing is low tides. A natural fact is the lowest tidal flow of the year is our winter tides. In most cases the tides can be as low as a foot under normal low tides. An important thing to look for on your tide charts is the minus sign along side of the low tide telling you it will be even lower than normal. An example of this is today there will be a (minus) -1.5 foot low, meaning the tide will be one and a half foot lower than a normal tide. On the other hand we can experience a (plus) or a + 1.5 foot high, meaning the water will be one and a half foot higher than a normal high tide. I like fishing the lower tides rather than the extreme high tides out on the inshore flats and the higher tides in the backwaters or in the creeks and channels. Ok now to tell you how to set up your boat for fishing on the flats. Remember the tides always go from north or south and the fish are not willing to swim against the moving water. So if you see the water moving to the south the fish are going to be located on the south of the grass or structures with the less current movement. Anchor your boat up current and drift the baits like live shrimp or pin fish back into there strike zones. If you anchor down tide try casting baits to the opposite side of the structures and let the bait drift back to the boat. If the bait looks like it is flowing with the movement of the water you will get you more strikes and hooked fish. One thing to remember, most fish are very lazy until you set the hook and then they will get very feisty.
Now drifting is a great option at this time of year as the fish will gather up on structures and we have no idea when or where they will gather. Once you locate an area the fish have gathered, stay in that area. I believe you have found the water temperature that is suitable for the fish. I have notices some great rock piles only hold fish when the water temperature is warm and other rock piles hold them when it is cold. Try to remember which one hold fish at a certain time of the year and next year the same thing will happen. If you know where the springs are you’re a lucky fisherman. If you don’t know where they are you can find warmer water by having a temperature gauge on your boat. If you do not have built in temperature gauge go to a pool supply company and purchase a pool thermometer, which will work also.
Fishing for me and my charters has been on the good side. I have been doing so well about everyone that has fished with me has been happy lately, going home with some nice fish for dinner. On the offshore waters I have been averaging five to ten keeper grouper and about 20 non keeper fish. The biggest reason I attribute this to is using stinky dead bait. Even the fresh pinfish we have caught for bait has been working better after cutting them. I strongly believe that no one bait is better than another but the water conditions controls what the fish are going to eat. Right now the water is very dirty and the fish can find the bait not moving and stinky much easier than fast moving baits. Tuff E Nuff squid has been working to catch grouper, now that is funny. If you have ever been out fishing in the Gulf and used squid you know the grunts, sea bass and other smaller fish attack the squid with vengeance. Lately the squid along with a piece of cut fish has been catching most of the grouper. I have tried trolling and again this always depends on water clarity. If the fish can only see your baits for a few seconds the chance they will follow will not be good. When you can see your baits more than ten feet below the surface, only then go trolling for grouper. On the inshore deep flats the winter trout are starting to come in. The last two days we caught and released over thirty gator trout per day. The big trout were so plentiful on the flats that we decided to go after them on a fly rod. A member of the Always Fishing team Capt Tim Burke and I caught and landed some great trout on a fly. Capt Tim himself landed over five twenty inch gator trout on his new fly rod. All he trout were released by a new tool I bought from x-tools. This tool allows you to release a trout without touching the fish with your hands. Just a note a sea trout will die if not released properly. Always and most importantly never touch a sea trout with your hands removing the protective slime coating Mother Nature supplies the fish. I have seen proof touching a sea trout with your dry hands causes the fish to die in a few day’s. Here is a little fish story for you. The other day we were catching so many trout that one on the gentleman in the boat went to my supply of Salt Water Assassins to find one plastic, the fish would not eat. He didn’t find one, but I bet just about any brand of plastic bait would have worked. Before the end of his fishing trip his exact words were (“uncle”) “I can’t catch anymore fish my arms are tired”. Boy I wish every day could by like the past few trips but as I am writing this report the wind is picking up and the cold front is about to pass. What does this mean … you guessed it, I will be off the water for a few days according to the weatherman but we will see if he is wrong again.
Tight lines till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office: 352-666-6234
http://www.alwaysfishing.com |
Always Fishing Guide Service (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, November 16, 2005 - 6:37 pm: | |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando Beach and the Gulf of Mexico.
Updated: October 14, 2005.
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
The Nature Coast of Florida, Inshore-to twelve miles out and offshore fishing:
Fall fishing is truly upon us. Fishing the lower Nature coast is a delete finding the fish more abundant than previous years. I will never understand Mother Nature and all her wisdom. We the people seem to try to mess with her, but she always wins and that is something to be thankful for. We really don’t know why the red tide is so big, than in years past. We don’t know why there is a dead zone in the gulf but fortunately some of the fish have the ability to avoid the bad water. This faith of bad water has made the Nature Coast teaming with fish as we were so lucky and the red tide didn’t get us too bad. Don’t get too excited! Every day this changes as I am talking about migratory fish like mackerel. Many large schools of mackerel and bait have been swarming the area, more so than years past, I am referring to Pasco, Hernando and Citrus County waters. Any farther north or south I cannot report on. If you like catching the smoker king mackerel get aboard a boat soon and have some fun before the great fishing is only a memory.
One great thing about fall fishing is our shallow water reef fishing, which I do a lot of at this time of year. Lets chat about what I do to catch fish at this time of year. I have onboard my boat equipment to troll or bottom fish. I also have markers with some type of float and a heavy weight attached to the end and a pair of downriggers. I use a downrigger in the shallow water just dropped below the top of the water to stop the floating grass from sliding down the line to the lure and the float and weight to mark a spot I catch a fish Now we pick a spot to fish and instead of traveling thirty-five knots to our fishing hole I travel about three or four knots trolling lures. Here are a few lures I use and note I do not sell any lures, High Rollers, Strike More by Lee Fisher, Cisco Kid, Rapals and Manns stretch lures and I am sure with the amount of new lures on the market there are many more that work. Any of these lures will catch grouper along with other fish in the area. Please understand trolling is a lot of work so be prepared to pull in the baits often to check for grass as a lure with grass on it will not catch fish Once I get a hook up with a fish I either hit the save button on my GPS or throw the float in the water marking the spot I caught the grouper. One of two obvious things happens, either there is structure holding the fish or the fish are traveling to another location. If I find structure then I anchor and fish for them with bait or casting lures. I have had charters with great success in the past couple of weeks. Many grouper were caught but not as many keepers as I would think there would be at this time of year. I have been catching about forty grouper per charter with an average of two to six keepers per trip. This is good and bad… the good is the smaller fish was released unharmed and now we know that the year past we still have good spawn. The bad is we didn’t catch as many keepers as we all like. Most of the people who fish don’t mind releasing the smaller fish, as they know by releasing fish will help preserve the fishery for us and generations to come. I do have to mention all the charters have been taking home to eat many large grunts, sea bass, triggerfish and snapper. All in all fishing offshore has been good on the lower Nature Coast.
On the inshore reefs and grass flats my charters have been really doing well catching grouper nice sea trout, large Spanish mackerel, hound fish and bluefish. On the inshore waters I usually fish with artificial baits drifting which allows my charters to catch a bigger verity of fish.
Tight lines till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois Always Fishing Guide Service Office: 352-666-6234 |
Fishing-Rods (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: 
Votes: 5 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, October 14, 2005 - 10:07 am: | |
FISHING-RODS BAIT & TACKLE, located on Hernando Beach, directly across the street from the Public Boat Ramps.
This months report shows some improvement. Recent reports are indicating we are starting to move into our Fall fishing pattern. The water temp.is down to 83, we are seeing some early morning fog, and the fishing is improving. A couple of more degrees drop in the water temp. and things should really start to pop.
Inshore here in Hernando Beach the hot item is Trout. The bite has really been good for the last week, with limit catches being the norm and customers complaining of having to release 20 inch fish because they can only keep one.
Redfish also continue to keep thing going inshore. The Trout are on the flats in 3ft. to 4ft. and the Reds are in the same area but around the shallow rocks and oyster bars and are most active on the incoming tide.
The deeper flats are producing some Mackeral.
Chuming will bring them to your boat, but keep an eye our for the occassional Cobia.
Our best friend the Grouper is starting to stir around the inside rock piles. The fishing is best inside 30ft. because of the lingering effects of the Red-Tide from 30ft. to 60ft.
The Grouper bite has been slow so you need to be patient. The same rock areas inside 30ft., especially the 2nd ledge around 28ft. has been producing some good snapper. October and November have always been productive months for snapper. You just need to downsize your tackle
and do a lot of chuming to get the snapper feeding.
Good Luck on your fishing and stay safe. If you're in our area, stop by and say hi. We'll always try and help our customers catch more fish! |
Fishin-Rods (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: 
Votes: 4 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, September 22, 2005 - 4:50 am: | |
In August I reported that Red Tide was off Hernndo Beach and Offshore fishing was not good. Well here I am a month later and I am saying almost the same thing. From 35ft. to 75ft., the
water is a dirty mud brown and there are no fish.
The only choice for offhore is to run north at a 300 heading to about 45ft. then start looking.
For the present I suggest fishing inside for Trout, Mackeral, Redfish and Cobia until the weather and water cool, maybe then the tide will break up or at least you can fish the shallow rocks.
Fishing-Rods Bait & Tackle will try to keep you informed. For more info stop by or give us a call. |
fishingrods (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 3 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, August 21, 2005 - 5:36 am: | |
It has been a while since I have posted a report,
and unfortunately, this report is not great.
Fishing-Rods Bait & Tackle has been doing business in Hernando Beach for 4 years and I personaly have been fishing this area for 20 years, and guess what? This is the first time I have seen Red Tide in our waters. It's really sad to see how much devastation it can cause!
Due to the Red-Tide, which is hanging due west of
Hernando Beach from 30ft. to 60ft. and the warm water, fishing has slowed down and our fishing
patterns have had to change.
Inshore fishing for trout and reds is still good.
Trout are hanging on the deeper grass flats, 10-12ft. and are laying near the bottom. Fish the early morning before the sun gets high,6a-9a.
Reds are inside in the channel cuts and around
shallow oyster bars. Fish during the same time period.
If you run north pasr Chaz. you can find clean
water around 40ft. and you can find some keeper
grouper. In the same area you can find some
cobia and mackeral if you do some chuming. Finally, if yu want to do some serious grouper
fishing, you need to run NW 300d or greater to 65ft. or more.
Its not the best report, buts thats how it is.
Hopefully Sept. will start changing the pattern.
Talk to you then,
Fishing Rods |
Capt. Frank Bourgeis (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: 
Votes: 5 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, May 27, 2005 - 6:43 pm: | |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois / Always Fishing Guide Service
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando County / Brooksville, Spring Hill
Florida and the Gulf of Mexico
The Nature Coast
http://www.alwaysfishing.com
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Inshore-to twelve miles out and offshore fishing
June fishing is upon us and the excitement of usually calm waters brings us to some good fishing. This year should be about as good as it gets. Some times the cold fronts postpone the migration of the fish and this year I believe this is what is going to happened. To my surprise the water temperatures are just now reaching the warmth of April. June should be excellent month for trolling especially for kingfish, grouper and cobia. I have found that the Cobia fishing is already great. I have to tell you the deep water trout fishing just started, in twelve to twenty foot of water. Yes I said twenty foot of water. On a recent trip we hit a shallow water grouper rock and brought in some nice twenty inch trout instead of grouper. The water is clear so I do suggest you lighten up your line and leaders. Speaking of leaders I just purchased some new leader called Tyger-Leader stainless coated leader material that you can tie in a knot or melt the plastic coating with a lighter after you twist it . The leader is flexible and has so far been the best I have ever used. Check my website, www.alwaysfishing.com and go to the links page, there is a link there for Tyger leader. So far I have caught all kinds of fish using this leader and it seems to not impair the movements of the lures.
On a special note with great concern! I will pass to you a note I received. This is something to be concerned with as I check with my sources very bad for our community as well as our fishermen in the whole state of Florida that fish for grouper on the gulf.
The Gulf council has agreed to piggy back public hearings on the public hearings already scheduled in June for reef fish amendment 18a and the charter/headboat moratorium regarding a red grouper/shallow water grouper recreational interim rule to be effective sometime after July 2005. Dr. Crabtree is currently looking at a 3 fish aggregate bag limit with 1 fish being red grouper and an October thru December closure for 2005. The hearings already are scheduled for June 15, orange beach, Al, June 16 Destine, Fl, June 27, Key West, fl, June 28 Naples, Fl, and June 29 Tampa / St. Pete, fl. The council is now working on a regulatory amendment to permanently address the recreational red grouper issue that they intend to have ready for implementation in 2006 I suggest that all interested parties be prepared to attend any public hearing where this issue will be discussed to let their feelings be known. As you can see the closure has been reduced from the earlier proposed 4 months to 3. If you have problems with the closure and/or the proposed bag limits please continue to voice your opinions. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission will meet in Daytona, Fl on June 8,9,10 and Dr. Crabtree has been invited to discuss this issue. If you are interested in the recreational red grouper/shallow water grouper fishery YOU NEED TO BE AT THIS MEETING AND THE PUBLIC HEARING IN YOUR AREA!!!!!! You may also want to voice your opinion to your federal Congressional and Senatorial representatives along with Governor Bush.
Capt. Bob Zales, II
bobzales@att.net
bus. ph 850.763.7249
fax 850.763.3558
Fixing the problem only on the recreational side and not the commercial side is not the way to go in my opinion. Neither is only the commercial getting hit with closures. There has to be a way to please all and help the fish stock come back. Plus closing the grouper off totally for three months would be devastating to my business, as well as to all the people who want to come to Florida and visit and go fishing with friends and relatives. If you agree with not liking the way things are going please let your appropriate government officials hear from you.
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office: 352-666-6234 |
Always Fishing (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: 
Votes: 2 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, May 05, 2005 - 6:27 pm: | |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois / Always Fishing Guide Service
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando County / Brooksville, Spring Hill
Florida and the Gulf of Mexico
The Nature Coast
http://www.alwaysfishing.com
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Inshore-to twelve miles out and offshore fishing
Fishing above all things is a pleasure I get to enjoy often. Catching is another story. Just when you think you have it all figured out Mother Nature always adds a twist to things. The water is still cool as most fish are still following there spring breeding. I think a lot of things are about to happen.
This past week brought temperatures to the point, I think, should have been here about three weeks ago. Trout fishing is fair to midland in most areas around the Hernando Beach area. The best trout fishing I have been able to get into, has been in about six to eight foot of water using Salt Water Assassins on quarter ounce jig heads. The trout have been slow in biting the jigs. I have had to change a few of my clients fishing habits. I advised them to move the baits slower and observing the fall of the baits. This truly proved to be a better fishing tactic to use.
The redfish are at the outer edges of the channels and are being caught better this year than years past. Very large bull redfish (breeders) have been caught offshore. I even heard of a bull redfish being caught in very shallow water. The offshore bull redfish we caught came from twenty eight foot of water on sardines being used for grouper.
Large Grouper are just starting to show up in thirty to sixty foot of water in good numbers but some exceptionally good catches are being caught in thirty five to forty foot of water. I have been more successful on cut bait rather than live bait. Tuff-e-Nuff baits, which can be bought at Dixie Lee Bait and tackle was the bait of choice for some nice grouper this past week. If you do use live bait my only suggestion is to shorten up the leader not allowing the live bait too much freedom to swim far. I have been lucky enough to hit the grouper hungry and full of energy. Major rod bends have been experienced by all that have fished on my twenty six foot (Sea Fox) charter boat. The month of May will be just about the best month of the year to fish.
If you’re planning a trip in May your one of the lucky people. I truly believe May will be teaming with fish. I have seen major bait schools in as little as twenty foot of water and as deep as sixty foot. Many blue runners are being caught and if you’re a King Mackerel enthusiast you know how important the blue runner fish are to the King Mackerel’s diet. . Sharks are here too. We caught two better than five foot sharks this month so far. I can only say “let’s go fishing”. You should not be disappointed unless the weather is not good.
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office: 352-666-6234 |
Capt Frank Bourgeois (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, March 28, 2005 - 6:21 am: | |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois / Always Fishing Guide Service
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando County / Brooksville, Spring Hill
Florida and the Gulf of Mexico
The Nature Coast
http://www.alwaysfishing.com
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Inshore-to twelve miles out and offshore fishing
April fishing in my book is about the time everyone is ready and thinking about fishing. Except for spring gobbler season hunting is put on the back burner. Now the quest for the big fish is in a lot of people’s minds. I have been working closely with Dixie Lee bait and tackle home of Double Trouble fishing charters specializing in back-water fishing to fill my client’s calendar book with just about any type of fishing you want to do. I also have charters working Bass fishing so if you want to go fishing just give me a call for the fishing trip of a lifetime. Well you want to know what’s going on in the world of fishing, so here we go starting with Bass fishing. According to Capt Al Lyman (from Lake county, Florida fishing the Harris chain, Lake Toho and Lake Kissimmee) the fish are just getting off the beds and his clients caught many over 10 pound fish, on recent charters. Capt’s Mark and Luke from Double Trouble Charters have been catching many nice Sea Trout and Red Fish on artificial lures such as D.O.A. cal jigs and spoons. As far as Always Fishing Charters I have been working the deeper water for trout and looking for the extra shallow water grouper to appear. Most times when the Tarpon come in to our area so do the shallow water grouper. On the deeper inshore waters I have been or I should say my clients have been catching big gator trout and to my surprise lots of Blue fish. I also have seen the needle fish on the surface and the Mackerel busting them. Yes folks thing are starting to happen here. Now to convince Mother Nature to slow down the cold fronts and the wind, we will have it made. The area called the parking lot which is about twenty-five foot of water is still slow I have been catching most of my fish in forty foot to sixty five foot of water. On a trip I did recently with Jim Petit working as a first mate, (Jim manages the new tackle shop in the Outlet Mall) he was fishing next to me and we was fishing with a nice family that included a six year old boy. On board the boat I usually carry a spinning rig for Amberjacks ridged with thirty pound line, seeing this was the lightest rod in the boat the young boy and Jim was using a squid product called Tuff-E-Nuff, I buy this product and has been very successful for catching White Grunts and Sea Bass but this day the large grouper decided this was the bait of choice. The young boy caught and brought home three nice keeper size grouper. Of course a large smile came from a proud dad. Just for your knowledge I have been much more successful in the afternoon than in the mornings also when the sun is not as bright the fish did bite best. This is about to change as the fish are migrating and when the water temperature reaches the high sixties to eighty this will be the best time to grab a rod and go fishing. One point I would like to make! We are still on winter tides which means we will be about a foot lower than normal low tides. I use the Bayport boat ramp mostly and have destroyed 4 props so far this year. If you have a boat that draws a lot of water please for your own sake! Use the Hernando Beach boat ramp till the summer tides take over.
Keep a tight line till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office: 352-666-6234
|
Capt Frank Bourgeois (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, February 05, 2005 - 5:43 am: | |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois / Always Fishing Guide Service
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando County, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
http://www.alwaysfishing.com
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore
Well everyone is looking for great fishing report but the fishing changes from bad to good daily at this time of year . So I will just fill you in on how things will be happening in February. We will start out telling you about the offshore fishing coming up. As the cold fronts pass they will effect the fishing more than anything else as it does control two things. One being the habits of the fish the other is being able to go fishing. All across the U.S. the cold fronts, will effect, many species of fish when they will go from being dormant to active. The same applies here. If the water temperature goes up, the fish now think it is ok to start their spring movements. Most of the bigger fish do not move out of their winter haunts till the water temperature moves into a comfortable temperature. Fish like snapper, white grunts and smaller fish are not as uncomfortable in the cooler water. But the big Grouper and larger fish almost hibernate. Here is the only things you can do right now. Start shallow hoping the water is warmer and go deeper and deeper.
The people who have a boat big enough to go to the middle grounds will do the best as a lot of fish migrate there for the winter also the grouper will migrate there for breeding. The water in the middle grounds if you don’t know is over eighty miles from Hernando Beach is much deeper and closer to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. One of the problems that really hurt the grouper is not knowing the exact time period that the grouper go to the middle grounds to lay eggs. Millions of pounds of eggs are not allowed to be put into these beds due to fishing at this time of year, always decreasing the amount of grouper we have each year. The commercial people are forced to not fish during a one month period in the winter and the government controls this and they think they know mother nature well and can tell when the grouper goes to the fishing spots to lay their eggs. This has not worked and sad to say the commercial fishermen have to support their family’s. So all I can say is if you see the grouper with a belly full of eggs limit yourself and practice catch and release for a while and maybe, just maybe we can control our own destiny instead of the government doing it for us. I know this will be hard as it does cost so much money to go grouper fishing and not take home all you can catch especially in my business the clients always want to keep the fish.
On the inshore and backwater waters the fish like trout, reds and snook hide in the deeper grass or near springs where the water is much warmer. Having a very shallow draft boat is the best way to get way in the back of the creeks for some great fishing. Just remember to slow down in the winter for better results. Look south right now toward Tarpon Springs for some real action on Pompano as well as some of the biggest trout of the year. Now Sheep head fishing, that’s a different story you can get them in about any rock pile you know about. Use live shrimp or fly fish for them.
Keep a tight line till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office:352-666-6234 Toll free: 1-888-618-3474
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Captain Steven Soults (Fishing_buddy)
New member
Username: Fishing_buddy
Post Number: 12
Registered: 10-2003
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, January 06, 2005 - 10:31 am: | |
The West Central Florida fishing report is brought to you by Angling Adventures Guide Service. Fly fishing and light tackle fishing in the beautiful waters of Florida’s nature coast.
http://www.angling-adventures.net
Hello, I’m Captain Steven Soults and this is the local inshore fishing report for Florida’s Nature Coast.
REMEMBER!!
There is no need for an early start this time of year. A late morning approach gives the sun time to heat up the shallow water and us time to sleep in a little before we head out fishing.
WARM WEATHER RETURNS!!!
The weather is finally starting to cooperate, with daytime temperatures getting well into the seventies and on some days into the lower 80’s. The fishing couldn’t be better. This beautiful should continue a little while longer, although we can’t say that about the water temperatures. The water is extremely cold, although even with water temperatures as cold as they are, that hasn’t stopped the fish from eating!!! We have been having a great deal of success fishing the warmer shallower waters and backwaters paying very close attention to the small grass patches that are scattered throughout the area north of Bayport in Hernando County.
With water temperatures as cold as they are and with no rain, the water remains very-very clear, so light line this time of year is a must, 6 to 8lb line at the most should do the trick has been doing very well bringing Jack Crevalle up to 15-16lbs to the boat. I recently took 2 people out from Wisconsin. They are a return customer, so as always, I wanted to put them on as many fish as last time or more (which is sometimes can be very challenging), due to the fact that they visited this area in the summer last time and they had non-stop action for the full 4 hours, but its was not the summer, it was winter and I knew it would be more challenging to keep the rod bending for the whole 4 hours. The day started out a bit “iffy” with no takes in the first hour. I was beginning to get worried when the tide started moving and the fish got hungry!! Over the next three hours they boated over 20 plus Spotted Sea Trout between 12 to 18 inches and numerous Giant Jack Crevalle up to the 15-16lb range. Not a bad day!!!
The lure of choice that day was a DOA CAL Jig Body, with the root beer body w/a chartreuse tail found at my local Walmarts. We also had a great deal of success using a simple Cajun Thunder and jig combo (whether using a regular small bodied jig or a DOA Shrimp ¼ oz). I have found that the trick is to twitch the Cajun Thunder Bobber once or twice then let it sit for at least 6 to 8 seconds then do it again. Keep doing this right up to the boat, due to the fact that we have had many fish hooked right at the boat. Remember this time of year no matter what technique you are using, whether it be a jig or a shallow plug, SLOW DOWN your retrieve!!! Fish are not going to spend the energy chasing a jig or plug down like they will in the warmer months.
If you have any questions, about winter fishing, please feel free to email me or call the office. I deal with numerous email’s everyday containing fishing related questions. I always love talking fishing, so drop me a line.
If you have any questions or would like to book a trip to experience SHALLOW WATER FISHING AT ITS BEST please call Angling Adventures Guide Service with Captain Steven Soults at (352) 686-0853 or you can try the cell at (352) 238-9339
Till next month!!! Fish on and tight lines!!!
http://www.angling-adventures.net
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Capt Frank (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, January 05, 2005 - 8:08 pm: | |
Hernando County, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
http://www.alwaysfishing.com
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore
I write fishing reports in hopes to book my boat for fishing trips. That is the main reason most of us guides write them. But most times the people who are interested in the reports have there own boats and do not need my services. Every now and then there is a Captain like myself who just loves fishing a lot and is willing to share what I have learned with others. Through the years I have done many fishing seminars at events like boat shows, fishing shows, fishing and boating clubs, just about anywhere anyone wants to chat about fishing. Most of the time people thank me as they leave the event looking forward to the next speaker as they want to learn more about their sport. After years of doing this, I sometimes wonder if it is worth all my efforts then a really neat e-mail came in. I want to share with you. It read as follows;
Hello Frank
I just wanted to drop you a line and let you know that we read your reports (almost every day). We just wanted you to know that we really appreciate the information you pass on to us . We just picked up a little boat (17' pro-line) a few months back and at the start, frustration set in a little bit but then we recognized you were always fishing and we really started doing our home work. That is where you came in and although we haven't met we wanted to let you know that we get a tremendous amount of info from you.
Thank you for everything!!!!!!
Well I guess if I have helped even one family enjoy the sport of fishing I consider myself a success.
Ok 2005 is going to be a interesting year for me with the addition of the new Sea Fox boat. This boat has one hundred and fifty gallons of fuel on board that is double of any other boat I have had. With the new Mercury Opti-max I believe I will be able to do thirty miles of running on ten gallons of fuel. Watch out fish for here I come…
January and February as well as July and August the fishing is about the same. The inshore waters are not stable and cold fronts effect them more than deeper offshore waters. At this time of year I like to fish as shallow as I can, while searching the waters for fish. I start at twenty foot of water and keep going out till I find fish then stay in that area all day. Sometimes I go to deep then I have to come back and that is not smart. Grouper is one fish I find do not eat as often as other fish. In the winter and in the dead of summer, the big grouper eat only once a day. The smaller grouper eat more often as they burn more energy to stay alive and try not get eaten by bigger fish. In the winter I decrease the size of my tackle and fish for smaller fish like trigger fish, white grunts and sea bass. So often I also downsize my leader as the water gets real clear the larger leaders tend to spook some of the bigger fish.
The backwaters too are effected by the cold waters and that’s why we have good fishing deep in the back of the bays and creeks. Here in this area always fish where the water is the warmest. We boast of large freshwater springs keeping the water temperature more stable. Fish slow baits like slow moving lures or shrimp.
Keep a tight line till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office:352-666-6234 Toll free: 1-888-618-3474
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Capt Frank Bourgeois (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, December 10, 2004 - 5:07 am: | |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois / Always Fishing Guide Service
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando County, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
http://www.alwaysfishing.com
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore
Beware of low tides
Tides are the alternating rise and fall of sea level with respect to land, as influenced by the gravitational attraction of the moon and sun. Other factors influence tides; coastline configuration, local water depth, seafloor topography, winds, and weather alter the arrival times of tides, their range, and the interval between high and low water. As a results, we have extreme low tides in this area. Let me tell you as a charter boat and past tow boat Captain in this area since 1991 I have experienced some low tides. I have seen tides so low no one was not able to negotiate any channel from Hudson to Crystal River. I have seen the Hernando beach channel with no water at all in it. I have hit bottom in the middle of the Bayport and Hudson channel. So if you’re going to go fishing in the winter months, I suggest you check the tides first. Now the good part of low tides being so low. I like to spend time, in idle of course and my motor in the raised position searching for rock piles. I then motor up as close as I can then mark them with my GPS. Now I can use the GPS marks for two purposes. One is for fishing the other is for navigation this allows me to avoid hitting the underwater rocks. Even with all the years I have spent navigating this area, I have hit rocks from Hernando Beach north to Yankeetown. Sad to say hitting rocks and oyster beds, is part of living in one of the best areas to fish, especially when rocks are homes to some big fish.
Offshore fishing has changed as December unfolds. Surprise catches are being caught as you read this report. On my last trip in forty foot of water we caught a Flounder bigger than I have seen in the Gulf since I started fishing here in Florida. In the same rocky area a big Sheep head, Grouper, White Grunts, Dog fish and Lizard fish was also caught. I thought I seen it all but as always the Gulf is full of surprises. This particular trip I left port from Hudson traveling in about a dead west direction for twenty miles the rolling hills are holding some nice fish. I was using jigs and frozen bait.
I do have some open dates so give me a call. ”Lets go fishing”
Keep a tight line till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office:352-666-6234 Toll free: 1-888-618-3474
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Capt Frank (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, October 02, 2004 - 6:23 pm: | |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois / Always Fishing Guide Service
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando County, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
http://www.alwaysfishing.com
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Posted - 1.28.04
Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore
Oh what a relief…
I can speak for many in Florida, “enough is enough with the weather” guess what… I think we are safe now… I just returned from a trip offshore (“ahhhhh”)… Oh what a relief it was to hear my Optimax roaring up the channel again. “Too long” I said to myself but, no one can change Mother Nature. Ok here is what to expect out in the gulf. Gliding toward the bird rack, I noticed lots of new tree branches taking up permanent residence along the channels edge. I suspect the county has cleared the channel of obstructions except the crab traps. I hope the storm has drifted them into the channel and someone did not put them there. Passing by what we call the bird rack which is the number one marker, I really noticed the water was very dirty. The water here on the Nature Coast is clear as drinking water so observing this was not a pleasant site. This is normal after storms and the water will clean up rapidly as the winds calm down. Heading out to North Rack the floating grass was very thick and when I passed North Rack I did notice there was some damage on the rack. The water continued to be dirty and full of floating grass till we hit forty foot of water. This is where I decided to start to look for fish. I fished my way out to fifty-five feet of water. On the way there we tried trolling thru large bait schools and what appeared to be some nice Bonita and Kings. Nope we did not hook up I guess they were full as the bait schools were large. I then decided to hit a good number I have in fifty-five foot of water then it happened. We stayed in this area all day and ended up with some limits of Grouper. Two highlights of the trip was George Lytal of Spring Hill not only limited out on Grouper he caught a prize Shark. The big fish for the day was a beautiful catch by Jim Leech of Zephyrhills, hooking and landing a forty five inch Cobia. The Cobia bottomed out my Boca Grip which only goes to twenty-five pounds.
Keep a tight line till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office:352-666-6234 Toll free: 1-888-618-3474
Keep a tight line till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
Office:352-666-6234 Toll free: 1-888-618-3474
|
Capt Frank Bourgeois (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 2 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, September 20, 2004 - 2:52 pm: | |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois / Always Fishing Guide Service
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando Beach and the Gulf of Mexico.
http://www.alwaysfishing.com
By Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Cabin fever is only for a short time here in Florida. I have been in Florida since 1981 and remember months of bad fishing weather when I lived in New England. I guess a few weeks of bad weather I can live with, but lets see what it will do to the fishing. I predict the fishing will be great but we will have to wait for the fish to settle back down from the storms. Lucky for the fisherman not the fish they do not have a long memory. It takes a few days for them to forget we had a storm and things get back to normal fast. What you really want to consider is fall to the fish is not the same as we think about it. The storms that have just passed dumped lots of cool water in the Gulf. If this sends a signal to the fish that fall is here, you just might want to hit the waters sooner for fall fishing. Now is a good time to re-spool your reels with heavier line in anticipation of the bigger fish moving into the shallow waters. I have just cancelled two more charters as the winds are still causing bad conditions in the gulf. The waters are not only stirred up from the freshwater run off from the land areas but in our area we have to contend with silt. Most of the silt comes from limestone. As a lot of you realize this area is limestone city and we see this every day on the highways as limestone trucks pass us or we follow them and the limestone is on our windshields. This same white powder fills our Gulf waters. All we need is a few good days and our waters will be clean again. The fish will look for clean water too so give your attention to the clarity of the water your fishing in. I have not been on the Gulf since Hurricane Frances so my report is only what was told to me. The fish are biting but very slow and the small fish are active as they require more food than the bigger fatter fish.
Keep a tight line till next time
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
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Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, November 17, 2001 - 3:29 am: | |
Subject: The Nature Coast -Tarpon Springs to Crystal River
Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Florida Fishing Report for: The Nature Coast from Tarpon Springs to Crystal River including the homeport of Hernando County and the Gulf of Mexico.
Http://www.alwaysfishing.com
Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore-over twelve miles out
Hi all:
Well as predicted the fishing is going great. From reports I have had from other areas the nature coast is the best place to plan a trip. Baitfish and much more are waiting for you.
Just in the last week I have gone offshore collecting 10 big grouper as well as releasing over forty back to the water. Along with the grouper were many grunts as well as other reef fish to many to mention. Just about any method of fishing was successful including jig fishing with plastic baits such as Salt- water Assassins, Love’s Lures and new baits sent to me to try Mr. Twister Exude.
A new fishing rod to look at soon to be in shops, also helped in the extraction of many fish this week is the Rouge Rods. They will be on their way to a successful life in Florida. as they are moderately priced and top of the line.
Well enough of product lets get back to fish… I had a great experience this past week taking two lady models fishing in Port Richey along with a new web site called Bite Tracker. They had the ladies there for pictures and to their surprise the fish really turned on. In the Cote River the big jack were in the channel on the way out. Capt Dennis Royston in his boat and myself in mine boated many big jacks. The ladies fought all the fish we hooked up and may I add, they also hooked up on their own and fought them all the way to the boat. Now I know these ladies will want to come back, in fact one is already making preparations for her and her boyfriend to come back fishing with us. The day went on with some nice trout caught and released. A hearty thanks goes out to Nick Stubs and his crew from BiteTracker. This was a great day for Capt. Dennis the ladies and myself. I know the ladies and staff all had a good time.
I also took out a father and son fishing. On the way out they informed me all they ever did was fish, catching was a problem. I told them everyone has those days, but to stay confidant and we would catch fish. Boy was I right; the two caught and released some of the biggest blue fish I have seen in a while. The count according to the young man of eleven was at about fifty blues. Just about two miles away from the blues we started fishing for trout. After a couple of nice trout the young man hooked up to a nice fish. Watching him I knew it was more fish than he ever hooked in to. To my surprise he handled it as if he was a TV star. He applied pressure and adjusted his drag as I chased the fish with the boat as needed. To there surprise the fish was a twenty-one inch grouper. The line I was using was Team Fish line, formally triple fish. The weather was so beautiful I gave them a treat and we went about eleven miles out to an inshore reef. Along with the help of some squid the father and son then caught another fifty fish comprising of silver snapper (grunts), grouper, sea bass and much more. All enjoyed heading back to the dock with smiles and tired mussels.
“Bye For now … BE SAFE”
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
1-888-618-3474
Captain Frank Bourgeois office 352-666-6234 Charter info Toll free 1-888-618-3474 http://www.alwaysfishing.com |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, October 31, 2001 - 11:31 pm: | |
Subject: Hernando Beach and Gulf of Mexico
10/28/01
Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Florida Fishing Report for: Hernando Beach and the Gulf of Mexico. Capt Frank is booking Tarpon trips in Boca Grande this spring.
Http://www.alwaysfishing.com
Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore-over twelve miles out
Hi all:
From Tampa to Crystal River this fishing is about as good as it gets, as always there is a catch. Mother nature is on the offensive again. All the northern cold fronts head this way early fall and the fishing goes up and down… This past week has been so wonderful with trips picking back up and the fish slamming just about everywhere.
Between eight and eighteen feet of water is abundant with fish at this time of the year. If you like shallow water grouper fishing as a sport fish this is the time to do it. I know a sport fish? “Yea” in the shallow waters off the central west coast of Florida is just about as good as it gets for shallow water grouper. A Fact is grouper tend to be in deep waters but most of these fish will never see deep water. Thirty to fifty miles offshore west of Hernando Beach is thirty to fifty feet of water. The charter boat Always Fishing had three trips for grouper this week and I have to say on the average we caught and released over fifty grouper each day. All trips took grouper home to eat and released all the rest.
Well one of the things I like to do when I can, is catch white bait and go to the eight foot reef and use them to chum for grouper. Then I get out my fly rod and fly fish for grouper. Of course I also get hooked up into many big gator trout and a occasional red fish.
The inshore waters
“Bye For now … Catch a bunch”
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
1-888-618-3474
Captain Frank Bourgeois office 352-666-6234 Charter info Toll free 1-888-618-3474 http://www.alwaysfishing.com
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9/28/01
Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Florida Fishing Report for: Hernando Beach and the Gulf of Mexico. Capt Frank is booking Tarpon trips in Boca Grande this spring.
Http://www.alwaysfishing.com
Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore-over twelve miles out
Hi all:
Lets go fishing is on my lips every day now. The fish are finally here… They are ready to eat for the winter and you should not miss it… Long over due cool rains and the fact that it is autumn brings us some of the best fishing in Florida here on the Nature coast. This week alone I have done charters with some great people catching tons of fish. I will tell you only one story… four ladies wanted a ladies day out and hired me for their excursion… They loaded the cooler with Trout and some of the biggest Spanish mackerel I have seen all year. Trout fishing has gone from meek to wild in a week.. Trout fishing is on your mind try the nature coast for some wild action…
I also had a grouper-digging trip this past week the fish are on their way in. We caught about 25 shorts and the fishermen I had on board lost over 6 fish to the rocks and experience… But they also boated two hammerhead sharks…gray snapper…sea bass and more. All in all the three fisherman caught over 100 fish for the day…
The fish are biting, grab a rod and head for the water
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
1-888-618-3474
Captain Frank Bourgeois office 352-666-6234 Charter info Toll free 1-888-618-3474 http://www.alwaysfishing.com |
Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, June 07, 2001 - 9:06 am: | |
Subject: report
Capt. Frank Bourgeois
Florida Fishing Report for:
Hernando Beach and the Gulf of Mexico.
Http://www.alwaysfishing.com
Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore-over twelve miles out
Hi all:
Ok its time to go fishing…
Well I have just returned from the fishing in Boca Grande and let me tell you it was fun. This time I took Carol and we checked into the Weston’s on the beach. I launched the boat in Lemon bay and took her on the scenic ride down the I.C.W. (inter coastal waterway). Talk about beauty, wildlife still flourishes there and mere words can’t describe the beauty this area has to offer. After about 20 miles of sight seeing we pulled into Boca Grande Pass at a idle just in time to see another boat hook up into one of those spectacular fighting silver giants. In about 20 minutes we saw so many fish I new that my charters would be pleased. The rest of the week proved to be as good as I expected and all hooked up on fish.
Back on the home front I have not been fishing here but talking to Hernando Beach Bait and Tackle, Nancy reports Grouper fishing is getting better in the shallow waters. Cobia and Spanish mackerel are being caught in the same areas. Redfish are still in the backwaters and trout can be caught where the shrimp boats are not working. Dixie Lee Bait & Tackle reports trout fishing is wonderful in four to five feet of water and the shark fishing is outstanding with many over five foot black tip sharks being caught. He also reports that the shallow water grouper fishing is picking up where there are more and more keeper grouper are being caught in the shallow waters.
I have no more trips planned for Boca so I should be reporting more often as I only have a computer at home…
Captain Frank Bourgeois
Always Fishing Guide Service
1-888-618-3474
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