NEAR SHORE
Hogfish are a prime nearshore target. Live shrimp, a long 10–15 foot fluorocarbon leader (around 30 lb), and a simple knocker rig with 1–2 oz weight and a 3/0–4/0 hook will get bites. Lane snapper are steady in the deeper nearshore zones; squid and shrimp catch numbers, while cut threadfin and live shrimp typically upgrade size. Mangrove snapper are mixed in—use smaller chunks of threadfin on lighter leader when the bite is picky. Red grouper are possible deeper nearshore, but expect some shorts before a keeper. Flounder can also pop up nearshore around sandy edges and hard bottom transitions.
OFFSHORE
Red grouper remain a highlight offshore on hard bottom, ledges, and potholes—big dead baits and quality live baits are key. Mangrove snapper are biting well; cut threadfin on a double-snell rig is a staple, while live pinfish can produce the biggest fish. Scamp grouper and mutton snapper are in the mix on longer runs and deeper structure. We’re also seeing solid “heads and tails” like vermillion snapper, porgies, and almaco jacks. Triggerfish are about to re-open, so start getting your smaller hooks and squid strips ready. Pelagic action is always possible on clean water—keep a pitch rod handy for surprise tuna, kingfish, or wahoo opportunities.
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
To watch the video, click Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nliTGCAaln4
To read the full report, click here: https://www.hubbardsmarina.com/hubbards-marina-fishing-report-3-1-26