Yellowtail Snapper Fishing Tips

Chumming

Proper chumminga crucial element to catching the yellow snapperkeeps a steady stream of snapper coming to your boat. Although many chumming techniques exist, the recommended variation involves one, or preferably two, chum bags. Prepare the chum bag and include oats and sand to the mix, which will provide a clouding effect to the water. However, before adding the oats, soak them in water for up to two days, according to the website Keys Fishing 101. After preparing the chum, ladle the mixture into the water on a regular basis. Another option is to ball up the mixture and put in on the line and wrap the line around the ball of mixture several times.

Proper Line and Technique

The yellow snapper has a remarkably keen sense of sight that allows them to recognize line within the water. Using a clear monofilament line and a fluorocarbon leader, each of 12 to 20 lbs. of test, will help reduce the fish's advantage, according to the website Keys Fishing 101. Attach the leader directly to the line and use a blood or uniknot; forget using a swivel knot. After preparing the leader and line, keep an ample amount of slack in the line, providing a slow drag effect. Let it out without any resistance, letting it flow at the same speed of the current, allowing the bait to sit in the middle of the chum. After a bite, the line will escape rapidly. Allow it to run for several seconds, then close the bait and reel.

Locating the Fish

When fishing for yellow snapper, look into the water for any signs of reef structures; coral heads, edges, outcrops and reef patches tend to attract the fish. A depth finder is an invaluable tool for this fish; they change depths during different water conditions. If the water is clear, expect to find snapper at depths of 60 to 100 feet, but if the water is cloudy the fish often swim to shallower water and are found in depths of 40 to 60 feet, according to the website Tortugas Fishing. Lastly, before starting to cast out any lines, leave the boat motor running for 15 minutes; the sound of the engine attracts yellow snapper. After years of heavy fishing, the snapper associates the engine noise with food due to the chumming technique that many commercial fishing boats use, which feeds many snapper at once, according to the Tortugas Fishing website.