Of course, we have to start with Tarpon since my home port is around Boca Grande with thousands of hungry fish. They are awesome fun and make lasting impressions. We also have some catch and release fishing for Snook now because the season is closed for harvest. Pompano offer great table fare if you invest some time and effort. Last, but not least, is the Mackerel run going on along our Gulf Coast now. It will be summer heat by the end of the month, so don’t wait too long to share time with friends and family on our beautiful waters. Tarpon, or Silver Kings, reach their peak late this month or some time in June. You can join the action in the Big Boca Pass or scout up your own fish on Gulf coast beaches. Schools cruise our entire shoreline now migrating from south to north, usually in about twenty feet of water.

Fish also move through both Charlotte Harbor and Tampa Bay hunting for food. Use stout gear for these strong tackle-testers and enjoy their acrobatic jumps. Get lots of pictures; just do not put Tarpon in your boat. Fluorocarbon leaders can make a big difference here when waters are gin clear. I like strong 6/0 sharp hooks and 60 or 80 pound leaders. We cork sometimes or free-line as needed. Snook are easy now, so enjoy some fun with the kids. Catch a few and move on so we don’t stress our spawning fish too much. Fly fishing can be a great way to enjoy some action and learn new skills. You can usually get a few Reds or Trout for dinner if you try. Pompano have become one of my favorite targets. They can be challenging to locate and coax into eating your jigs, but they are worth the effort. We use small metal Goofy Jigs and custom Pompano jigs — usually ¼ - ½ oz. Since these fish have small mouths you must not use too big of a hook. Add a small tidbit of fresh shrimp for better bites.

Concentrate on deeper edges with strong current flows and keep your jig bouncing. Schools move in and out of area passes with tide changes and moon phases. Colors can be important, but sometimes it makes no difference. Try variations and go with whatever works today. Don’t be afraid to move if you’re not catching fish. Spanish and King Mackerel are abundant, easy to find and catch if you are prepared. Here are some tips on what to look for: Clean, clear waters are important. Note flocks of screaming, diving birds, and surface-striking fish. Observe and work around the feeding fish so you don’t run ‘em off. Shipping channels and schooling baitfish are hot spots, too. Passes can hold hot action especially around the high tides. Spend the time with your local tackle shop staff to learn the best rigs and lures for your area. Hardware: spoons, jigs, feathers, all catch plenty of fish. They are on top of the action with reports daily. Be sure you get enough to cover those bite offs. You will lose gear to Macks’ sharp teeth. We use wire on Kings, but mono on Macks because it gets so many more bites. Long shank hooks can help too. Carry plenty of ice to keep your dinner fresh. Share these tasty fish promptly as they do not get better in your freezer! Let’s go fishin’ soon. Capt. Van Hubbard Past President of Florida Guides Association and Winner of 1999 Mote Marine Award info@captvan.com