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Stick Close To Shore For Grouper

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By MEL BERMAN

The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 2, 2009

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

Now with more affordable fuel, recreational grouper diggers are again heading offshore in their quest for some hard-pulling gags. Most have discovered the best grouper fishing is close to shore.
Captain Michael Plastic and his 7-year-old grandson, Kyler Kelty, were fishing guests aboard local attorney James Amarosa's boat.

"It was a little choppy in the morning as we headed out to 80 feet. But by the time we got there, the Gulf seas had calmed down nicely," Plastic said.

Anchoring up, they soon discovered the bite was not very productive. So they decided to try the more shallow rocks in some 40 feet.

That was a good move. All hands on board began cranking up many grouper. Some were "shorts," but many were nice keepers. In addition, the trio hooked several other species, including "octopi," as young Kyler called them, as well as good numbers of Key West grunts.

It appears that as long as this unseasonably mild weather continues, your best bottom fishing will be in nearshore structures. Best baits include frozen sardines and squid, as well as live pinfish.

The excellent trout action continues inshore. With the season now open, anglers can keep four trout in the south zone, and five in the northwest and northeast zones.

The statewide slot size is 15 to 20 inches, with one trout more than 20 inches allowed.

Just remember that although trout season has reopened, you still will be releasing many of these delicate fish. Experts urge using circle hooks with barbs crimped down and a release device to avoid handling them. And get them back into the water as quickly as possible.

Hear "The Captain Mel Show" on Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. on 970 AM. Also, visit "Fishing Florida OnLine Magazine" at capmel.com.

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