Wow, I can't tell you how incredible the response has been to my blackfin tuna guide. I basically came up with ten steps to help target them specifically in Miami and you all loved it. Some of you have had success (Way to go Mike, Richard, and Jonny!), while some of you have not been able to put my tactics to work yet, or if you have you didn't tell me how you did. I'm glad I can help you all out, so please don't hesitate to keep asking me questions. Now on to the report:
We continue to find dolphin on each trip, however, the larger fish are becoming less abundant. There were a few nice fish thrown in the mix on several trips last week (up to 25 pounds), but they were rare. Our average fish size has been from 4-8 pounds with lots of fish smaller than the 20" legal size limit. One of these schools attacked us in 65 feet of water, but they have mostly been found under frigate birds found from just beyond the edge starting in about 250 feet or so and on out to 1000 feet.
Fishing on the edge has been very steady for us. The late afternoon bite has been best for us with plenty of bonito, big sharks, kings, and at least one sailfish on each trip. Bait has been tough for most if you don't know where to look. The traditional spots that are well known have been hit or miss, so putting some time in to find new spots may pay off big for you. Look for patches of grass in 18-25 feet off of Key Biscayne and some will hold pilchards.
The wrecks are producing some nice gag grouper and bruiser amberjacks. Certain spots are holding the muttons, but they are tougher to find.
We will be in the Bahamas next week and will fish a few days locally, so tune in to find out what's snappin' or call me and let's get out there together!
As always, email your fishing questions to our ‘Tackle-N-Tactics' corner at captdave@launchmcharters.com and I will be happy to help you out.
C'ya on the edge, Captain Dave