I’m over here checking out the reef at Fisherman’s Cove RV Resort. Snook season is closing at the end of April at midnight. We only have a few days left, and we have murky, murky water conditions. Those murky conditions are going to allow you to use a bigger leader, so bump up those leaders and keep reading for more tips in this weekend fishing report!
There are two different types of white bait that are running around out here. Threadfin herring, and the scaled sardine, also known as the greenback or pilchard. Some people also call them “shiners.”
These baits are popular among anglers because of their versatility and effectiveness in attracting fish. Here are some specifics and how they can help you catch more fish.
Threadfin Herring
Threadfin herring (Opisthonema oglinum) is a small fish in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. It is a prevalent baitfish, especially in the southern United States, where it is used to catch various saltwater game fish. The threadfin herring has a silver-colored body characterized by a thread-like extension of its dorsal fin. This extension, which can be up to half the length of the fish’s body, is where the name “threadfin” comes from.
One of the most common ways to use threadfins is as live bait. Anglers often use a cast net to catch threadfin herring and then use them as bait for larger game fish, such as tarpon, snook, and redfish. When using threadfin herring as live bait, keeping them alive and healthy is essential. This can be done by placing them in an aerated livewell or using a bait bucket with an aerator.
Another way to use threadfin herring is to cut them into pieces and use them as cut bait. This is particularly effective for bottom fishing, where the bait’s scent can attract fish feeding on the ocean floor. When using threadfin herring as cut bait, it is vital to use a sharp knife and cut the bait into small pieces that are easy for the fish to eat.
Sardines
Sardines are a type of small fish that are found in many parts of the world. They are commonly used as bait in both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Sardines have a silver-colored body and are characterized by a series of dark spots along their sides. They are popular baitfish because they are readily available and easy to catch.
Like threadfin herring, sardines can be used as live bait for larger game fish, such as tuna, marlin, and sailfish. They are also used as cut bait for bottom feeders.
Despite our great bait options, the weather for the end of snook season is abysmal. It looks like our first good thunderstorm of the season is rolling in this weekend, and it’s not going to get really pepped up until Sunday. It looks like you’ll be able to find a nice wind shadow on Sunday and chase that pre-frontal bite.
Get out there, and find some good bait. I’m Captin Erik, this is your weekend fishing report, and we’ll see what’s happening next week underneath the doc at Fisherman’s Cove RV Resort.
