05-10-2002, 06:40 PM
May 10, 2002<br><br>Sarasota Fla. Fishing Report<br><br>By Capt. Bob Smith<br><br>The Tarpon have arrived on schedule and are moving along the beaches in ten to twenty feet of water. Of course it is good day, bad day when it comes to the bite. Easterly wind or calm, clear water is very desirable for finding the tarpon. Free-lined live bait such as Threadfin herring, grunts, pinfish and live crabs, etc. are all good baits. I recommend no less then 20 to 30 pound test line for a good live release. Too long of a fight is bad for the tarpon and all you are doing is following him around. I use about 6' to 8' of 80Lb test mono leader and a very sharp and extra strong 5/0 hook.<br><br>When you see the tarpon, position your boat and let them come to you. When they come within casting distance, cast in front of them and let your bait sink or run in free spool until you have a pickup.<br><br>The (M) reefs still have plenty of Spanish mackerel but just a few kings. The Kings may pick up again before it is over. You never know with all this early warm weather. Barracuda action should improve and it is time to keep a lookout for permit. You will need small live crabs or shrimp for them.<br><br>On the bay, redfish and snook are being caught in the backwater around the docks and channels. Seatrout are worth fishing for and are on the grass flats, but are still slow when you are looking for keeper size trout.<br><br>Enjoy and Protect<br><br>http://www.sarasota-fla-fishing.com<br><br><br>