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Captain's corner

By TOM TURKE

© St. Petersburg Times, published March 28, 2001

Mark your calendar for April 3-10, the days before and after the April 7 full moon, with a capital "M" for mango snapper. Mangrove snapper will converge on many ledges, wrecks and springs, and will be cooperative during spring spawning.

First, secure a variety of live and frozen baits. Cast net palm-sized pinfish and purchase jumbo live shrimp. Try to find a school of Spanish sardines around a channel marker or wreck and use tiny gold hooks to catch a few dozen. These sardines are irresistible to snapper and will work live or cut in chunks. You also should have frozen sardines, squid and frozen chum blocks.

Next, pick a spot. There will be many, but the better spots include the rocky edges of Egmont Shipping Channel and just about any wreck, spring or artificial reef. Be at the spot about an hour before sunset, and make sure you are upcurrent of the liveliest-looking piece of structure.

To find the best spot, spend time searching back and forth with your bottom machine about 30 feet off the bottom. The snapper will appear as small, chevron-shaped marks suspended above and around your structure.

Fish your bait at or near the bottom using a knocker rig. This consists of a 1-2 ounce egg sinker that will slide, or knock, directly on top of your 5/0 circle hook.

- Tom Turke charters The Mixed Bag out of St. Petersburg. Call (813) 854-5779.

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