NEAR SHORE
Near shore fishing is producing a great variety of species and continues to improve as water temperatures climb. Hogfish action remains strong and this is the time to target them before they spread out with warmer water. Live shrimp on light tackle with long fluorocarbon leaders remains the best approach when fishing hard bottom and smaller ledges in the 40 to 70 foot range.
Lane snapper are becoming more abundant as water temperatures rise, especially in slightly deeper near shore waters. They are aggressive feeders and will readily take shrimp, squid, or cut threadfin, with larger fish often favoring fresher baits.
Mangrove snapper remain somewhat hit or miss near shore, but become more consistent as you move into deeper near shore areas. Red grouper are occasionally caught while fishing deeper structure, particularly when using larger live or cut baits.
Mackerel continue to be thick along the beaches and around near shore reefs and wrecks, providing fast-paced action. Kingfish are starting to show in better numbers, mostly in the 15 to 25 pound range, and offer exciting opportunities for anglers targeting pelagics.
Keep an eye out for cobia cruising along the beaches or structure, as they can show up unexpectedly and provide a thrilling sight fishing opportunity.
OFFSHORE
Offshore fishing continues to deliver strong action and excellent variety for anglers willing to make the run. Red grouper remain the primary target with consistent catches coming from depths of 140 to 180 feet. Large dead baits such as squid, bonita strips, or larger live baits have been producing the best results.
Scamp grouper are showing up more frequently as we push deeper beyond 160 feet and are a great bonus catch. Triggerfish action remains steady, particularly in deeper water, and they continue to be a favorite for their table quality.
Mangrove snapper have been consistent overall, though there was a slight slowdown late last week before rebounding midweek. Yellowtail snapper fishing has been outstanding in deeper water, but we are also seeing them in shallower depths around 100 to 120 feet.
Mutton snapper are being caught occasionally, adding excitement to offshore trips, while vermillion snapper, porgies, almaco jacks, and other reef species continue to provide steady action.
Pelagic activity is increasing with kingfish leading the charge along with some blackfin tuna. There are also opportunities for wahoo, cobia, and even the occasional sailfish as conditions continue to improve.
Don’t forget, that we have some great videos on our fishing tips and tricks page here to show you how to target and rig for almost any species-> https://www.hubbardsmarina.com/fishing-tips/
For more fishing reports, photos, videos and more check out Hubbard’s Marina on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tik Tok, Twitter, Pinterest or SnapChat just simply search @HubbardsMarina and do not forget our family motto, “If You’re too busy to go fishing, You’re just too busy!”
Thanks for reading and checking out our report!
Capt Dylan Hubbard,
Hubbard’s Marina
Call or Txt me anytime at (727)393-1947 | https://HubbardsMarina.com
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