Snapper Fishing Tips

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Snapper are smart fish that dwell at the bottom of rivers, lakes and seas. When angling for snapper, be aware that specific water conditions and bait will increase your potential for a strike. Because snapper are more prone to strike if the presentation is right, only cast your line once you reach the appropriate water depth and have the best rig for this large fish.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Choose the right outfit. Opt for a 9- to 22-pound soft tip reel about 6 to 7 feet in length. Tie on a 2/0 to 8/0 size hook and a sinker, using no more than a size 3. If using leader, add a 30- to 40-pound fluorocarbon leader.

Step 2

Focus on presentation. Snapper are fast swimmers, so incite a strike with a good presentation. Bait your line with flathead, pike, cod, mullet and small fish. Cut 1- or 2-inch bait chunks. Alternative bait choices include shrimp and crabs. Keep bait out of the sun to avoid spoilage.

Step 3

Drop your line close to the bottom, near shellfish beds, soft reefs, reefs and channel edges where snapper can be found feeding on Plankton and forage fish.

Step 4

Move inshore near reefs and rocky coastal areas after nightfall. If you are not fishing from a boat, drop your line off a rock near a bank or pier.

Step 5

Go fishing in deeper waters after a hard rain when the tide is still unsettled. Take advantage of peak times such as early in the morning and after sunset. Watch as snapper schools swim in from smaller lakes and rivers. Allow yourself an hour to set up before the arrival of your peak time.

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

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