If you’ve never experienced barracuda fishing, winter is the perfect time to visit a tropical saltwater destination to try your luck at catching a few. The Florida Keys is one of the best places to go fishing forbarracuda on the flats during the winter months.
Don’t dismiss this less popular species just because it has a habit of lunging at other catches that you might be reeling in. Make no mistake about it; the barracuda’s hard runs and spectacular jumps are sure to get your heart pounding with excitement.
If you’re not sure where to look or what type of barracuda fishing equipment you might need, these five tips can help.
1. You can find barracuda on the saltwater flats, in channels, and near inshore structure. When other inshore game fish start acting fickle due to changes in the weather, barracuda fishing on the flats can still be quite productive. Barracuda tend to school up in the shallows during cooler weather, making them prime sight casting targets. As water temperatures warm up on the flats with the arrival of spring, barracuda will usually start moving off into deeper waters.
2. When fishing for barracuda, you can use a 7½-foot medium-action spinning rod and a 4000-series spinning reel spooled with 20-pound braided line. Distance casting is important to avoid spooking this fish species. Once a barracuda spots you or your boat, it usually means the game is over.
3. Always use a wire leader on a barracuda rig. Barracuda have razor-sharp teeth, which means you need to use wire leader that’s light enough to go undetected, but strong enough to hold up against a barracuda’s toothy grin.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
