TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Oil snappers are fan favorite fish, but most people are thinking about Florida keys or where to catch them. However, the bay has a rich population. You have to go a little further to find them.
Captain Ryan Amaturo, with Reel Nauti Fishing Charters, says he has been successful in 120 to 180 feet of water near wreckage, coral reefs and rocky mountains. Having a chum block in the water helps to pull the snapper up a little from the bottom.
If light tackles are best and the water is too clear, a lighter leader is better. Amateuro told Amanda that he was using 1/8 to 1/2 ounce jighead along with live shrimp, but he would eat a variety of food. If the live shrimp are not working, try dead shrimp, squid, or cut bait.
“The idea is to hide the hook, release the shrimp’s tail and hide the hook from its body.” Throw the jig into the water. Amatero said he kept bail open and feeds the line as he sinks, making it look natural. Once the oil takes it, they will run and feel the line comes out faster. Close bail and start reeling!
There are big fish waiting, so it’s important to wrap them around quickly. Sharks and barracudas want more of your catch. If you’re not fast enough, they’ll bite quickly.
Keep in mind that snappers like to hang out together and can lead to a good by-catch. While on the Gulf Coast, Amatero caught a lovely mangrove snapper even among schools.
Not only are they fun to catch, they were also very tasty and cooked in many different ways. You can cook them perfectly, they are perfect for ceviche and snapper sandwiches and tacos are always tasty!
If you would like to contact Captain Ryan Amaturro, you can do so on his reel Nauti Fishing Charters website.
