Deep Water Can Be Dangerous

By BILL MILLER
Posted July 23, 2008 by The Tampa Tribune

I went fishing Wednesday to film a “Hooked on Fishing” episode with the father-son duo of captains Sam and Joe Maisano. We went out 65 miles and caught our limit of giant American red snapper in 180 feet of water. Cut Boston mackerel double hooked was the top bait, even outfishing live bait. We moved to a spring in 150 feet and quickly limited out on big amberjack using live pinfish and grunts.

Fishing that far out in the Gulf can be dangerous if you are not prepared. Numerous bad squalls popped up all around us and we had to maneuver around them at least twice. Maisano’s radar helped us see the size of the storms and which way they were moving. Make sure all your safety equipment is up to date and your motors are running well, if you are going to try a deep-water trip. It is always a good idea to file a float plan so someone knows the area you are fishing in case there is trouble.

Night-time fishermen report big bull sharks are plentiful at the Frankland and Gandy bridges. Black drum floated around the bridge lights on heavy tackle has been giving shark anglers all the fun they can stand.

Spanish mackerel schools are around the Skyway and Egmont Key. Look for the diving birds and striking fish. Position upwind and drift near the schools while casting weighted spoons or diamond jigs into the feeding frenzy.

Captain Bill Miller hosts “Hooked on Fishing” on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-8 p.m. on Bright House Networks Catch 47.