Miami, Florida - Offshore

Without a doubt, probably some of the best Sailfishing of the year is occurring right now off the Dade, Monroe County coastline. It’s not uncommon to hear of multiple catches of at least two and sometimes over ten releases in one day during a day of fishing. For diehard Sailfisherman, this is music to our ears, but for many anglers, they could give a damn about catching a Sailfish. Many anglers prefer catching a few fish for the freezer while they’re out for a day of fishing. During this time of year, we can be in a transitional phase of Dolphin fishing, the Mahi Mahi will show up along the edge of the reef one day and disappear for the next six days. Then they will show up ten miles offshore on a rip, and the next day they will be back along the reef. But for anglers seeking a filet or two, if they make a few quick observations, they may be able to come home with a half dozen Dolphin when other anglers are still dreaming of May and June Dolphin mania. There are many Dolphin caught this time of year. This may surprise many anglers, but we call them winter Dolphin, and they are cruising the Gulf Stream in search of the many Flying Fish that are found either along the reef or possibly well offshore. You need to read the water conditions to find the Dolphin this time of year. The Gulf Stream may be in close or well offshore during this time of year. Before you plow offshore in search of Dolphin, if you see a rip along the edge of the reef , there is a good possibility that Dolphin will be following this rip in search of Flying Fish. However, if you find dirty water in close, run offshore until you find a color change. There is a good probability that you will find Dolphin on this edge. Don’t run too far offshore. In all likelihood, the Dolphin will be no further that eight to ten miles offshore. If you do find a rip or weedline, troll small lures down the line to maximize your fishing time, and hopefully encounter a school of fish. You will find days when there are no fish to be found. However , when you do find fish they may stay in our area for a few days before moving on. Personally, I prefer to fish the edge for Sails and take my chances on the on the GROCERY fish. Usually, while fishing live baits off the kite, you can catch a half dozen Dolphin when they are in the area. I will also put a bait down deep and have a good chance of landing a Mutton Snapper or Kingfish while drifting the edge. Whatever you do, live bait is a must. Learn to read the water colors. They can be the key to a successful day of fishing. Biscayne Bay Fly Shop, located at 8243 South Dixie Highway, Miami, will be hosting a Fly Fishing Seminar with Captain Rick Murphy, famous for his ESPN Sportsman’s Adventures, on March 11, time and price to be announced. And on March 25th and 26th, Chico Fernandez, renowned author and master fly-fisherman, will give a two day, one on one, fly fishing class which will include breakfast and lunch both days. Cost will be $375.00. Every Wednesday from 7pm to 9pm free fly tying classes will be given by resident expert Jesus Quintino. For more information call 305-669-5851. On Thursday nights, from 7pm to 8pm, at the Old Cutler Raw Bar, South Dixie Highway and SW 184 Street, come listen to “Fishing South Florida Style”. This is an hour long live radio show hosted by Mike Pace, Captain Rob Fordyce, Captain Marty Locke, and Captain Mark Houghtaling. Offshore and inshore fishing topics are covered during the live radio broadcast, and you can pick up a few tips from the radio hosts after the show. You can also catch the show on Thunder Country 100.3 FM. Captain Mark Houghtaling wants to hear from you. Send him your latest catches and pictures to15920 SW 85 Ave. Miami, Fla. 33157, or E-Mail him at [email protected]. Capt Mark also has a charter fishing service ,you can call him at 305-253-1151 or check out his web page at http://www.magicfin.com For free safe boating and personal watercraft classes call the Coast Guard Auxiliary at 305-820-8411, or the United States Power Squadron at 305-238-4807.