Speckled trout fishing is one of the most popular activities on the Gulf Coast. Speckled trout are abundant in waters of the Gulf of Mexico. They have long bodies that are spotted and there are more spots on the back. The inside of the speck’s mouth is yellow and has two, quite large canine teeth. Specks are silver in color and have a greenish tinge to them. These fish run in schools so if you catch one, you are likely to catch more. They grow to become a maximum of around fifteen pounds.
Where to Fish and How to Catch Speckled Trout
Young specks are often found in small lakes and marshes. They stay in those areas until they get bigger so they are protected from larger predators. Once they become less vulnerable, they begin to move farther out into the waters. The fishermen in search of big speckled trout, fish from the beach, shallow rigs and bays. It is best to fish for the bigger ones in spring and summer months. Those that are fishing for trophy worthy fish believe that May seems to be the best time. This is when they head for the shoreline and are heavy with roe. For those seeking smaller specks, autumn and wintertime are best. The marshes will be teeming with young specs.
Drifting is a popular method of fishing for speckled trout. This is best done above sandy flats or oyster beds. The location of the fish depends upon the current and wind conditions. The specs could be up by the surface, midway in the water or down near the bottom. The rougher the water is, the lower the trout will go. Live shrimp or minnows are popular to use when drift fishing.
Some anglers prefer bottom fishing. Live bait is widely used for bottom fishing. Speckled trout seem to have a preference for shrimp. Croakers and pogies are very effective as well. If you are using live baitfish, a #5 kale hook will be great for large specks. Hooking the baitfish through the dorsal fin or lips will allow the baitfish to swim freely. This will attract any big nearby speckled trout to your line.
Surf fishing for speckled trout might be the easiest way to catch them if you don't have a boat. Seagulls and pelicans that are feeding on a meal are telltale signs that speckled trout are present and plentiful. The usual baitfish will work just fine for surf fishing. You can not catch these fish with cut bait; It must be fresh and alive. Johnson spoons and ripplinredfins are lures that work effectively for specs. My favorite lures for speckled trout fishing are Fin-S jigs; they catch fish and they are cheap.
Night fishing can be very productive. The areas under bridges seem to be congregation places for larger specks. Bright lights will draw the fish to the vicinity and improve your chances of catching speckled trout.
Source: http://www.gulf-shores-travel-guide.com/speckled-trout-fishing.html |
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