Lure and Bait For Snook
In Florida, many bridges span saltwater tributaries. Snook congregate under these bridges, making the areas a productive place to cast lures for the species. For Florida bridge snook fishing, use root beer-colored 3⁄8-ounce baits, as they are reported to bring good results by Larry Larsen at Florida Sportsman website. Larsen also writes he uses only artificial lures unless there is evidence snook are feeding on the surface and then switches to baits to bounce along bottom, drawing out the snook.
Silence is Golden
The Florida Sportsman article, penned by Larsen, also suggests using an electric trolling motor if using a boat under bridges. Snook and other species are easily spooked by noise, and an electric trolling motor prevents noise. A better method, and one perfect for canoes or sea kayaks, is to use paddles instead of any motor. Use the stealth of the craft to position into the eddies under the bridge where snook school.
Hook, Line or Sinker
Jim Merrill at Florida Sportman uses a root beer DOA TerrorEyz in 3⁄8- or 1⁄2-ounce and reports it as his favorite. It is also suggested that a 7-pound rod be employed with the lure with a combination of 40- or 50- pound fluorocarbon leader and 20-, 30- or 50- pound braided line. Snook hooks should be barbed and size 3 or 4. Sinkers are optional, depending on the fish feeding at the surface or going deep by pillars and in eddies.
Article Written By Eric Cedric
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.
