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Temps Keeping Grouper Active

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 5, 2008

Updated: 02/05/2008 12:13 am

GO FISHING is a daily look at the area fishing scene through the eyes of local charter boat captains and fishing guides. Today: Randy Rochelle.

Here we are in mid-winter and offshore water temperatures are still holding in the mid-60s. These above-normal temperatures have kept the gag grouper in relativity shallow water and have kept them active. Even those fishing in as close as 30 feet are still finding some quality gags that are willing to chew. Move out just a bit deeper and the bite really cranks up.

The bite to the north continues to be strong, although maybe not as hot as it was a month ago. Having a mix of live and cut bait is still a must as these fish are still active.

The big key of late has been to bounce from spot to spot. It seems each spot will produce a few fish and then the bite will slow or shut down all together. Instead of sitting on the spot hoping the grouper turn on again, pull the hook and move on.

The red grouper bite seems to be spotty but this could be because no one is really targeting them. It seems that most are being taken by anglers chasing gags. With a one-fish-per-person bag limit, it doesn't make much sense to head out to 100-feet of water to try to get a couple of reds when you can stop in 60 feet and have a shot at putting five gags per person in the boat as well as a couple of reds.

As long as Gulf water temperatures stay close to where they are, the bite should remain very consistent.
Captain Randy Rochelle runs the Gotta Go out of St. Pete

and can be reached at

(727) 365-3218 or go to

93islandercharters.net.

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