Cap’n Doug’s 10 Tips For Catching Fish in Sarasota
& The Basics (scroll down)
#1
Use Sharp Hooks
(1/0 or 2/0 Bait Holder or Circle Hooks)
and Fresh Leader
(25lb Mono is fine but Fluorocarbon is better)
#2
Match the Hatch
Use whatever is locally available in relation to live bait I.e. shrimp, whitebait, crabs, sand fleas, cut bait, etc.
(Note* I’ve seen folks use a little bit of cut bait on the tip of their hook to catch the most fish ever on my boat!)
#3
Fish Structure
Docks, Bridges, Rocks, Reefs, Grass-flats.
Anywhere little fish can hide.
I’ve caught my biggest Redfish (46”) behind someone’s house on their dock.
#4
Don’t stay anywhere too long.
I’m good for about 20 mins in a spot with no bites, then we gotta move!
#5
After you cast your bait out there, let it sit for a moment.
Give the fish time to smell, see or feel the vibrations coming from the bait
I catch most of my fish when the rod is in the rod holder and I’m eating, making a phone call or taking a drink, go figure?
#6
Be cool at the Bait Shop, Go To Hart’s Landing for the “Phattist” Shrimp Around!
Talk to the other anglers and get their opinions, tactics, especially locals, they usually know what’s up.
No-one knows everything, don’t be a know-it-all. Ask Questions and Listen.
#7
Use good equipment, and know how to use it.
Walfart Rods usually suck, and will only last a few fishing excursions,
Go to a local fishing tackle ( All About Fishing & Economy Tackle) They will direct you towards the better equipment.
Practice casting at home, Don’t cast over your head, this is dangerous and inefficient, side cast or flip your baits so as to not kill them with your Superman Cast.
#8
Bring your wife, daughter or young son fishing with you.
They’ll probably, most likely catch the most and biggest fish. Test this one for yourself or ask any fishing guide.
#9
Use Gloves or De-hooking device with all fish.
Every fish has some sort of defense, Slime, Poop, Spikes, Teeth, Sharp Gills, etc, they’ll get you one way or another, Watch Out, especially for saltwater catfish!
#10
Remember why you are fishing.
I fish for species that I can eat, fishing for snook, reds, etc is fun, even when they are closed season, BUT
Please be careful with the fish while removing the hook. There’s nothing worse than having your Catch and Release Fish floating away, lifeless.
How To Catch Redfish in Sarasota Video
See Cap’n Doug abroad the Phat Katt II, show you the ropes on redfish fishing and more video links
The Basics of Fishing
Be The Best Possible Angler That You Can Be, Armed With Knowledge
Practice makes perfect.
As a first step towards perfecting your saltwater fishing skills, consider going on a trip where you can practice alongside more experienced anglers. Cap’n Doug and Tearin’ Em Up! Fishing Charters would be ideal for this, with dedicated staff that will be delighted to help you through each step of the process, from baiting to reeling. Public fishing piers can also be a good place to pick up basic skills.
Be Familiar with Equipment
This may seem like the most obvious tip, but it’s important to take the time to become familiar with the processes of casting, knot tying, and baiting. These are things you can practice without even setting foot on a boat, and once you start to get the hang of these essential steps, your next saltwater fishing venture will be that much more pleasurable.
Sun, moon, wind and weather
Picking the proper location and time of day for saltwater fishing can make all the difference in the world. Acquaint yourself with how the phases of the moon and sun affect where fish can be found, and which times of day are ideal for different types of fish. Wind and weather conditions can also have a huge effect on fish migration patterns as well.
Research the area
If you’re new to saltwater fishing, you’re most likely also going to be new to the waterways in your area. Before you venture out on the waters, take the time to look over navigation charts and study the most promising areas to fish. Educate yourself about the different species of fish available and which types of tackle are best to use. Check with the locals for additional saltwater fishing tips particular to the area.
Learn how to spot fish
Beachfront locations with holes, pockets and reefs are often the best places to go for saltwater fishing. Channels that lead to deeper water are also a good place to look. Keep your eyes open for feeding fish in hot spots. Circling gulls and birds are also an excellent indicator of where fish may be.
Contact a Professional Guide
Inshore, Nearshore Reefs & Deep Sea Captains Here