"Lighten Up"

When "spooling" for mutton snapper try to use the lightest lead possible. A light lead is great for feeling a subtle fish bite. 

Unless the current is ripping; a 1, 1.5, or 2oz egg is perfect.

"Glow Over Gold"

Everyone would like to know that special color that catches fish everywhere every time! Unfortunately a "magic color" like that doesn't exist.

But, as Capt. Eric, from The Freight Train Fishing Charters, says "DOA's 'glow over gold' is pretty close to that perfect color." 

Available in the classic shrimp, cal shad/jerkbait, airhead, and other DOA lures "glow over gold" is a dynamite color to have in the tackle box!


For more info, also check out:
http://www.freighttrainfishing.com/

"Speed Search"

Always try to keep a pair of trolling feathers or jet head lures ready to go, even if your not on a trolling trip offshore. They are great to throw in quick when moving between spots; or to quickly investigate any floating debris for dolphin.

"Keep it down"

Having at least one deep bait is always a good idea when setting up a trolling spread. Often times the "down" rod is the only one that gets hit; especially on calm days. A planer or inline trolling sinker is a great way to get your baits down. If the planer or sinker doesn't for in your spread, a large lipped plug is a great way to get a bait down.

"Take a few"

Sabiki rigs are great for catching live baits, but one size doesn't fit all. Take a few different size and color sabikis for different situations. Sometimes a smaller hook, different color bead, or other slightly different factor is all it takes to fill the livewell.

"Big Baits, Big Bites"

The DDX Lures 10" Paddle-Tail is a great bait to throw when the snook are feeding on big mullet and ladyfish. Swim one of these big baits slowly by a big snook or tarpon and they won't be able to refuse it!

"Perfectly Peeled"

Frozen shrimp is a GREAT catch all bait for South Florida fishing. But, it can come off a little quick if not handled correctly. To get the most out of your frozen shrimp try the following:

1. Always keep shrimp very close to frozen, thaw just enough to get the hook through.
2. Break the head and the tail off. They don't make good bait, but they make good chum.
3. Peel the shell off the meat.
4. The remaining part of the shrimp body should be broke in about thirds.
5. Small bite size pieces of shrimp are ready to go. In one side and out the other with the hook and your ready to go! 
6. Consult the fish on wether or not they'd like it cocktail sauce...it varies from day to day

"Knock-knock"

A knocker rig, as mentioned yesterday, is a great rig for fishing the entire water column. A knocker rig is easy to make and easy to use. A small sinker is placed directly on the leader, and will only slide between the swivel and hook. Continue to let line out and the bait will slowly sink through the entire water column. This rig puts your bait in front of fish at all levels, from top to bottom.