Fishing Report

Date: January 20, 2003

Title: Sailfish Invade South Florida

Probably some of the best sailfishing of the year so far, is occurring right now off the shores of Miami. Anglers have been recording double-digit numbers of fish all week. Two weeks ago, a strong showing of fish was noticed from Miami down to the Keys. Fisherman have been catching them slow trolling with Ballyhoo down in the Keys and kite fishing with live pilchards, threadfin herring, and goggle eye, further to the north. There has been a noticeable lack of “other fish”. By “other fish” I mean dolphin, kingfish, bonito, mackerel, etc. Typically, while fishing for sailfish with live bait, it’s not uncommon to catch a dozen or so dolphin and a handful of kings, but lately the action for these fish has been slow. However, that can change over night, and we could see a dolphin run any day.

Savvy anglers have been on the lookout for cobia following rays over the clear shallow waters off Key Biscayne. This time of the year the cobia can be seen in the shadows of the rays and will readily strike a live bait thrown to them. A boat with a large tuna tower is almost a must. Charter boat captains will cruise this area in their towers searching for the rays, which may be down deep and difficult to see in a smaller boat.

A few anglers have been catching amberjack and grouper on the artificial reefs off Key Biscayne. Mutton Snapper have been caught on the patches but lately they have been reported on the small side.

Look for continued good sailfishing throughout the month along with sporadic catches of dolphin, kings, and bonito. See you on the “rip”.

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Florida Fishing Charters
with Captain Mark Houghtaling
aboard Magic Fingers
(305) 253-1151
magicfin@aol.com

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