Mangrove fishing in the Florida Keys is a thrilling and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to make the most of your mangrove fishing adventure.
Best Time for Mangrove Snapper Spawn
The mangrove snapper spawn typically occurs soon after the full moon in June, with excellent fishing continuing through July and August. During this period, the larger mangroves move to shallow patch reefs on the ocean side in massive schools, making them easier to target.
Effective Bait and Tackle
Bait
- Chunks of cut ladyfish are recommended as they are too big for small fish to eat, resulting in more catches of larger snappers.
- Other effective baits include Ballyhoo chunks, cut pinfish, squid, shrimp, and live baits like pilchards and pinfish.
Tackle
- Light tackle is preferred as it makes the fishing more enjoyable and increases the chances of catching more fish.
- The ideal line weight should be balanced to avoid scaring the fish away or breaking the line.
Handling Wind Against Current Situations
When faced with a wind against current situation, it is crucial to adjust your fishing technique accordingly. Here are some tips:
- Freelining: Use freelining with chunks of bait to allow the current to carry the line away from the boat. This helps maintain a natural presentation and increases the chances of catching fish.
- Line Management: Be mindful of your line and adjust it regularly to avoid getting hung up on structure. Reel in periodically to ensure you are not too far away from the boat.
Recommended Circle Hook Size
For mangrove snapper around bridges and the Gulf side in the Florida Keys, a circle hook size between 2/0 and 4/0 is recommended. This size range is effective for catching larger snappers while minimizing the catch of smaller fish.
Effective Structure for Catching Mangrove Snapper
Grassy Bottoms
Areas with grassy bottoms are ideal for attracting mangrove snappers. Chumming can be used to congregate feeding fish in these areas.
Patch Reefs
During the spawn, mangrove snappers tend to congregate in small areas on patch reefs, making them easier to target.
Charters and Guides
If you are new to mangrove fishing or want to maximize your catch, consider hiring a local charter or guide. They can provide valuable insights into the best fishing spots, techniques, and tackle. Some popular charter services include:
- Manic Sportfishing Charters (Marathon, Florida): Offers 3 to 6-hour reef fishing charters with experienced guides and a variety of tackle options.
- Lower Keys Flats Fishing (Florida Keys): Provides backcountry snapper fishing charters with a high catch ratio and filleting services.
Additional Tips and Resources
- Conservation: Be mindful of local regulations and practice catch-and-release fishing to help preserve the mangrove snapper population.
- Local Knowledge: Consult with local fishermen, guides, and online resources to stay updated on the best fishing spots and techniques.
References
- Salt Strong. (2020). How To Catch Boatloads Of Big Mangrove Snapper (3 Simple Keys). Retrieved from https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/catch-nearshore-mangrove-snapper/
- Manic Sportfishing. (2023). Mangrove Snapper Fishing In the Florida Keys. Retrieved from https://manicsportfishing.com/mangrove-snapper-fishing-in-the-florida-keys/
- YouTube. (2022). MANGROVE SNAPPER SPAWN, FLORIDA KEYS – 2022 SEASON. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1R_cPpDJLo
- Lower Keys Flats Fishing. (n.d.). Mangrove Snapper Fishing Charter | Florida Keys Backcountry. Retrieved from https://lowerkeysflatsfishing.com/flats-fishing-target-gamefish/backcountry-snapper-fishing/.