Net Some Minnows -- It's Mangrove Snapper Time

Some of those tasty, flaky mangrove snapper have come into the local bays in good numbers, and Capt. Jason Prieto of Steady Action Fishing Charters has been getting them on the wrecks and reefs of Tampa Bay.

As tarpon move into the bay to chase glass minnows, so do mangrove snapper make their typical summertime appearance.

Prieto recommends anglers net some fry bait as close as the flats off the Gandy Bridge, although thicker bait may be found around Rattlesnake Key or Joe Island.

Stick some small bait on a Daiichi No. 1 bleeding (red) circle hook with 10-pound braided line, a 20-pound fluorocarbon leader and enough weight to keep the bait at the bottom, depending on water depth and tide movement.

Prieto said the tip to catching mangrove snapper is getting a chum block and do some heavy chumming with glass minnows to draw the mangos to the boat.

Also, too much water movement does not produce the best mangrove snapper bites. Prieto suggests fishing the start or end of an incoming or outgoing tide.

Anglers also can head to Davis Island for possible greenbacks, which can be cut and used for chum.

Anglers can keep five snapper daily at a minimum of 10 inches in total length. For more information on saltwater regulations visit the FWC recreational saltwater booklet on the FWC's website.

Prieto added the tarpon bite has been pretty good inside the bay, and threadfins fished on an outgoing tide has proved the best bet.

Finally, he said trout from 13-to-16 inches have been hitting in the early mornings and he’s caught some stray cobia around the bay. Prieto said he caught a couple cobia this week while chumming for snapper.

Capt. Jason Prieto can be reached for a charter at 813-727-9890 or email captjasonp@aol.com. Web site is  www.steadyactionfishingcharters.com.