I have seen these pilings many times however never looked at them as being around the rock piles at all. It makes perfect sense on how you described them. I am totally amazed. There was another youtube video in which backs up your theory and locations of a gopro video underwater showing these specific pilings underwater with the slants and I was amazed seeing the grouper there in numbers. Must of been a least 6 of them that were very nice size in one spot. With that said, the two videos combined teaches and proves everything in which you stated here, thank you again. I heard about this guy "Scooter" from my ex brother in law who worked in the bait shop a while back, but never had the opportunity to meet him at all. You have been blessed there as well.
This is the only video on RUclips that is actually helpful for fishing on the skyway pier. I've spent a lot of time on there myself. Do you like flats fishing? That's what my channel is based on. I'm going to try your techniques on the south pier and I look forward to your videos. Subscribed!
Hi Joshua i want to thank you i moved down here from NY trying to find a good fishing spot i been fishing cocoa n in Daytona caught a baby black tip looking forward to going here i really appreciate you making this video i love to fish i breath it lol just wish more people were more friendly like you its a lil bit of a drive for me i don't mind if i can bring some fish home lol Bless you and your brother maybe i could see ya out there someday
Awesome video Joshua! I lived down there back in 05-06 and we used to hunt the grouper around the Skyway. We'd pick up mangrove snapper constantly. Our method was to cast out weighted live baits and just hope to feel rock when the weight hit the bottom.
thank you your video was very informative I've been fishing on the Skyway Pier and hadn't had much luck but I think and hope that would change now after watching your video thank you very much for sharing.
Great info, thanks. Went there yesterday. Found what you were talking about. Got there a bit too late and the current got too strong about an hour after we got there and netting or hooking baitfish became difficult. But just after slack tide baitfish were thick. Saw a bunch of big sheepshead and a few grouper swimming around the pilings. Then a grouper that had to go 40 - 50 lbs swirled at the surface next to my friends baitfish. Tried to swim a yellowtail close to the pilings but the outgoing current was too strong. Will try again.
Great tips from a great guy, you helped me out before with a pier rod holder (pucho513) what is a good zone on the open water side of the south side i have a 9ft medium heavy with a 6000 size reel ready to break in, thank you and tight lines capt. Taylor
I wish I saw this video a week ago....I just spent a week down in holiday and was tempted to go but never made it. Catching jacks was fun but I would have loved to give this a shot. there's always next year!
Great video on the spacific spots and what kind of general tackel to use... Ive fished the skyway for well over 10 years. And found a few common spots for medium grouper and small flounder thats easy acess by kyak.. This just showed me wat to look for by the pillers. And one question for you is witch live bait do you averagley use for grouper. I use large freash gren backs cicar mullet or cut lady fish.. Any comments that can help my days off for fishing will be gread mand mych apreacheated thanks
Thank you so so much for the video. JOSHUA, when you freelining the pinfish, will the strong current push the bait to the top of the water? Or they will constantly swim toward the bottom disregarding how strong the current is?
Joshua Taylor Hi Captain Taylor, along the lines of this question is it best to free line only when the current is going away from you/bridge? For example I had a blue runner that I caught yesterday on the south pier. I had it in my well with aerator but died. I moved to a different location where I got a big hit before last year that I hook set to early. I hooked the blue runner up on my 8ft medium/heavy penn rod and reel but was casting to the west but current was pushing to the east. My bait would just keep coming back to the bridge. I ended up putting a 2oz weight and eventually got a big hit that started taking line but once again I think I hook set to early. What do you do in strong wind and current? I caught another blue runner and free lined that but kept tracking over to the neighbor. Is there anything you can do about that scenario? Thanks in advanced!
Hello Ian, unfortunately you can only free line away from the pier. The rock piles are out away from the pier. If the tide is coming in you can free line under the east span and try your luck that way. I have caught many fishing the incoming under the bridge it just isn't very pleasant reeling them in.
JOSHUA....I AM FROM ORLANDO, YOU MENTIONED A SECOND BATHROOM AREA...IN WHICH SIDE OF THE PIER YOU ARE REFERRING TO....IN SKYWAY...? AND WHEN IS THE BEST SEASON FOR THEM....? THANKS
How far from the pier are the rock piles? It looks like they are not within casting distance? Should I try to float bait over the rocks or lug some bait and let it fall down into the rocks? Just trying to figure it out. I am new to fishing and have been out there 6 times the last 3 weeks with no luck.
Sorry for all the question lately planning to be out there this summer wanna try to make sure it's a good trip. So question at 3:50 the dark lines in the water are the rock pile? thks like your videos
Joshua Taylor probably explains alot why I got snag alot when I did fish out there in some of spots. Is bait easy to catch on a sabiki? I don't seem to have luck when I fish but I give it hell everytime I go lol
Look for the smaller feathers/hooks. I typically make mine and tip the hooks with shrimp. Be sure to check out my sabiki video here: ruclips.net/video/FzReHtLeL0U/видео.html
Hey Ian, message me about the pier. I am planning on going out on the kayaks the Sunday (28th) after Christmas. My wife won't go out there with me so her kayak will be available.
Hello Nathan, you have to keep tension on the line. It's delicate because there has to be enough for the bait to swim downward but not too much slack that the grouper or bait rocks you. Practice is the key.
Hey Josh, I'm coming a long way to spend three days fishing in tampa this upcoming week. Before i get there Im trying to plan out my trip. One of the three days ill have access to a boat, while the other two ill spend inshore off piers, etc. What are some fishing spots you recommend both off the boat and on the boat. Thank you in advance.
great video! Quick question. Which pier do you prefer, north or south? I haven't had any luck there yet but i'm going to keep trying and hopefully these tips will help! thanks.
Have you ever had to deal with your line/hook getting caught on the rubble, if so how do I prevent it? I've had my line completely caught quite often, not sure if it's from other people's junk but it takes a good 10-15min to unsnag it. Since I don't want to cut the line, because that would just add to the to the problem for other people.
ThabogusTV Absolutely, it is one of those nuisance problems that we have to deal with especially now that more and more people are using super braids. I think a large portion just cut the line allowing a mess of line to collect.
Pinfish, jacks, blue runners, and Skittles (I will let you figure that one out ;)). The best times are from Sept through December. (Depends on the cold fronts)
Looks like a great place to fish Joshua! I'm coming over from the UK in a few weeks on vacation. I seriously need to check this out. Have you got any tips on tackle and bait?
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE INFORMATION.....IT WAS VERY HELP FULL ....WE JUST MOVE HERE A COUPE MONTH AGO AND LOOK UP INFORMATION ON CERTAIN FISHING ....MY FATHER IN LAW LOVE TO FISHING SO WE DO ALOT OF FISHING AND LOVE EAT FISHING SO THANK AGAIN
I will be going to skyway here in the next couple days my reel holds about 700 yards of line as a budget fisherman can I put 300 yards of 80 pound braid and the rest fluro or mono or should I try to put all braid with a 100 + pound leader?
I have figured out where the rock piles are on South Skyway. My trouble is how far out do I need to cast to be successful and about how wide are the rock piles.
I'll never forget my first time fishing that pier. I got slammed into the concrete by a big Goliath grouper. Not just one time but twice. We caught several grouper that day. Loads of fun and I hope someday I will return to catch a king there.
Joshua Taylor what bait do you use to catch those. i just recently left skyway but i always use cut bait and fail every time its making ne want to know what the best thing to use is that way the ocean doesn't discourage me
if i should come back to live in florida,which we will,,,just don't know when.i'm buying a house next to or somewhere near to you so i can go fishing with you Josh.lol.you certainly know your stuff.true and good tips.
Lol sorry I have a lot of questions ok so when you are standing looking at the east span every how many sets or rows are pilings have the cross diagonal ones
+Joshua Taylor (Salty Scales) Awesome thanks for the viedos and tips! I am new to the Tampa Bay Area. Grew up fishing the panhandle in the panama city area. Feeling a bit outta my element down here but your videos are quite helpful. Thanks again.
***** Hello that is a relative question but I love using jacks and pinfish for grouper this time of year. Shrimp and fiddlers will do well for sheepshead.
Hello Joseph, it depends on what type of fish. They both are great fisheries. Try and go when the barometer is rising near a new or full moon for the best results. High tide at dark or sun rise, with a rising barometer and new moon is deadly. ;)
Can catch the grouper and snapper year round or do they shut off during certain seasons? I know the limits and seasons for keeping them go on and off, but is there a right and wrong time for finding them? I feel like in summer or winter the fish may move offshore...
The mildly cooler periods during transition from summer to fall and winter to spring always produce great action but you can't beat July snapper fishing.
Thanks for the tips! Here for vacation from Virginia... Do you typically catch your bait from the same place on the bridge? Do you just use a simple bottom rig or do you try to sabiki them up?
The only thing that confuses me is that you mentioned about casting towards the crossed pylons. But then you talked about freeline. Once you freeline,, the batefish could swim away from the pylons/ Rock piles. Feeline is great. But i cant avoid your bait from swimming away from your targeted area
Thanks, yes you have to be quick on the strike or they will get you every time. I use a Daiwa Saltist with the an upgraded drag. I like a 7-8 ft Calstar rod. The tip is sensitive but the rod has a great back bone to get the fish from the structure.
Hello Peter, yes the bay is full of grouper but the pier piles have been pressured so much that the fishery isn't as good as it used to be. Not to mention you have to fight all of the fishing line that is carelessly left out on the reefs to get tangled in.
I fish the skyway often, I only seem to catch mackerel. Can I email you for some tips? Id be willing to pay. Although I dont have paypal so Idk how Thanks
That's okay, with each trip you learn a little more. You will be slaying them in no time. Wait for the water to cool a few degree, the fishing will be on fire.
sorry I read your previous comments and it was answered there. do you think a knocker rig would work well there? if so, what size leader would be sufficient for that?
I have seen these pilings many times however never looked at them as being around the rock piles at all. It makes perfect sense on how you described them. I am totally amazed. There was another youtube video in which backs up your theory and locations of a gopro video underwater showing these specific pilings underwater with the slants and I was amazed seeing the grouper there in numbers. Must of been a least 6 of them that were very nice size in one spot. With that said, the two videos combined teaches and proves everything in which you stated here, thank you again. I heard about this guy "Scooter" from my ex brother in law who worked in the bait shop a while back, but never had the opportunity to meet him at all. You have been blessed there as well.
+Tampabay Fishingenthusiast I am glad the video helped bud, now you know their location, you just have to catch them.
Thank you so much for sharing your secrets. I fished there many times and never caught a grouper but have seen other people catch them. God Bless you.
You are welcome!
New to Florida and you just made my day with this news, it's highly appreciated, thanks much.
Glad to you like it Alan Skyy. You're welcome!
This is some really good info!! Don't know if I could handle one of these fish but I'm gonna go out and try.
This is the only video on RUclips that is actually helpful for fishing on the skyway pier. I've spent a lot of time on there myself. Do you like flats fishing? That's what my channel is based on. I'm going to try your techniques on the south pier and I look forward to your videos. Subscribed!
Hello HookedOnTheBay, I am glad we can help. Yes, I primarily charter inshore.
Hi Joshua i want to thank you i moved down here from NY trying to find a good fishing spot i been fishing cocoa n in Daytona caught a baby black tip looking forward to going here i really appreciate you making this video i love to fish i breath it lol just wish more people were more friendly like you its a lil bit of a drive for me i don't mind if i can bring some fish home lol Bless you and your brother maybe i could see ya out there someday
+John Lugo You are very welcome John, I am glad the videos are of help.
thanks for the mini-instructional, learned more info in the last 5 mins than I have seen/heard/learned in the two yrs I've been here
Awesome video Joshua! I lived down there back in 05-06 and we used to hunt the grouper around the Skyway. We'd pick up mangrove snapper constantly. Our method was to cast out weighted live baits and just hope to feel rock when the weight hit the bottom.
Hooked Up Outdoors Getting out there and finding the structure is definitely key.
I liked the satellite view of the rock piles. Looks like you've got a lot of nice fish out there.
Thanks Ricker, yes I have had allot of great memories out on the piers.
thank you your video was very informative I've been fishing on the Skyway Pier and hadn't had much luck but I think and hope that would change now after watching your video thank you very much for sharing.
+William Marquez awesome, good luck out there.
Great info, thanks. Went there yesterday. Found what you were talking about. Got there a bit too late and the current got too strong about an hour after we got there and netting or hooking baitfish became difficult. But just after slack tide baitfish were thick. Saw a bunch of big sheepshead and a few grouper swimming around the pilings. Then a grouper that had to go 40 - 50 lbs swirled at the surface next to my friends baitfish. Tried to swim a yellowtail close to the pilings but the outgoing current was too strong. Will try again.
That's a great secret to share. I always go out there and catch gags by trail and error. Now I'm gonna now where to locate them much easier.
Thanks.
Thanks Andres, yes indeed!
I'm kind of new to fishing, and I now realize I need to up my rod and reel game. I tried this tip the day after I wacthed the video and got spooled!
+Keith Taylor Yes sir, you have to have the gear for the big boys.
So when your free lineing a pinfish, how much do you let of out there and what tide is best to fish the rock piles, is strong current good
Great tips from a great guy, you helped me out before with a pier rod holder (pucho513) what is a good zone on the open water side of the south side i have a 9ft medium heavy with a 6000 size reel ready to break in, thank you and tight lines capt. Taylor
Excellent video man. I've never fished the Skyway, will have to try this out. How much does it cost to fish the pier?
Prices have went up but It's a few dollars per person and a couple dollars for the car I believe.
I just went and its 6 a person, even though the website says 4 per car and 4 per extra adult.
Good video Man!! I used the satellite image but can’t seem to find the couple piles right after the bait shop
I wish I saw this video a week ago....I just spent a week down in holiday and was tempted to go but never made it. Catching jacks was fun but I would have loved to give this a shot. there's always next year!
+sawzall666 Maybe next time, give it a shot and let us know how you do.
Great video on the spacific spots and what kind of general tackel to use... Ive fished the skyway for well over 10 years. And found a few common spots for medium grouper and small flounder thats easy acess by kyak.. This just showed me wat to look for by the pillers. And one question for you is witch live bait do you averagley use for grouper. I use large freash gren backs cicar mullet or cut lady fish.. Any comments that can help my days off for fishing will be gread mand mych apreacheated thanks
Thank you so so much for the video. JOSHUA, when you freelining the pinfish, will the strong current push the bait to the top of the water? Or they will constantly swim toward the bottom disregarding how strong the current is?
+Mike Bui Hello Mike, the current will pull them to the top. That is where you have to learn when to let out line and so forth.
Joshua Taylor Hi Captain Taylor, along the lines of this question is it best to free line only when the current is going away from you/bridge? For example I had a blue runner that I caught yesterday on the south pier. I had it in my well with aerator but died. I moved to a different location where I got a big hit before last year that I hook set to early. I hooked the blue runner up on my 8ft medium/heavy penn rod and reel but was casting to the west but current was pushing to the east. My bait would just keep coming back to the bridge. I ended up putting a 2oz weight and eventually got a big hit that started taking line but once again I think I hook set to early. What do you do in strong wind and current? I caught another blue runner and free lined that but kept tracking over to the neighbor. Is there anything you can do about that scenario? Thanks in advanced!
Hello Ian, unfortunately you can only free line away from the pier. The rock piles are out away from the pier. If the tide is coming in you can free line under the east span and try your luck that way. I have caught many fishing the incoming under the bridge it just isn't very pleasant reeling them in.
With a real strong current(3-5 knots), I`ve actually used a #1 trolling planer! Works well with about 15 ft of leader.
Thanks I enjoyed your video. I got the fishing bug again and going to hit the pier soon. Do you think 20 lb drag is sufficient. 4/0 penn
Zoom Alan It could work but more is better.
Thanks for the video. Do you add any inline lead weight while fee lining for grouper?
Joe Macey Hello Joe, I use no weight at all.
Hey nice vid. Can you list your rod and reel size? Also what size and type of hooks you use? Thanks
JOSHUA....I AM FROM ORLANDO, YOU MENTIONED A SECOND BATHROOM AREA...IN WHICH SIDE OF THE PIER YOU ARE REFERRING TO....IN SKYWAY...? AND WHEN IS THE BEST SEASON FOR THEM....? THANKS
Javier Rivera both sides have rock piles, I prefer the south pier. I like fishing Sept through early December for them.
How far from the pier are the rock piles? It looks like they are not within casting distance? Should I try to float bait over the rocks or lug some bait and let it fall down into the rocks? Just trying to figure it out. I am new to fishing and have been out there 6 times the last 3 weeks with no luck.
Just got my first Grouper using your technique's 🙌 Thanks for sharing!
Congrats and you are welcome!
What was the temperature outside? And does then temperature matter?
Sorry for all the question lately planning to be out there this summer wanna try to make sure it's a good trip. So question at 3:50 the dark lines in the water are the rock pile? thks like your videos
That is why I am on here, I don't mind the question Randy. Yes, the lines are rock piles and rubble.
Joshua Taylor probably explains alot why I got snag alot when I did fish out there in some of spots. Is bait easy to catch on a sabiki? I don't seem to have luck when I fish but I give it hell everytime I go lol
Bait is extremely easy to catch. Sabiki or a net and you're set.
Joshua Taylor what size sabiki is a good size for green backs or pinfish? only use once but I just grab a pack didn't really know about the sizes
Look for the smaller feathers/hooks. I typically make mine and tip the hooks with shrimp. Be sure to check out my sabiki video here: ruclips.net/video/FzReHtLeL0U/видео.html
I'm planning on being in Tampa around Christmas time and just wondering what tatics would be good during this time of year for grouper?
ian kelly Free lining always works.
Hey Ian, message me about the pier. I am planning on going out on the kayaks the Sunday (28th) after Christmas. My wife won't go out there with me so her kayak will be available.
Josh, could you please share a few tip and/or tricks on feeling the hits while freelining? I always miss the hits and end up rocked. Thanks!
Hello Nathan, you have to keep tension on the line. It's delicate because there has to be enough for the bait to swim downward but not too much slack that the grouper or bait rocks you. Practice is the key.
Hey Josh, I'm coming a long way to spend three days fishing in tampa this upcoming week. Before i get there Im trying to plan out my trip. One of the three days ill have access to a boat, while the other two ill spend inshore off piers, etc. What are some fishing spots you recommend both off the boat and on the boat. Thank you in advance.
Bernardus The Skyway is always productive for pier fishing and Fort Desoto offers great flats fishing.
Hey Joshua, how do you normally hook your pinfish when freelining over the rocks?
cool, thx for the info. I may be hitting it up tomorrow night, Gonna go for speckled trout underneath the lights.
great video! Quick question. Which pier do you prefer, north or south? I haven't had any luck there yet but i'm going to keep trying and hopefully these tips will help! thanks.
Hello EatSleepFish, I prefer conventional reels with a stout rod. The Diawa Saltist or Saltiga work great!
Have you ever had to deal with your line/hook getting caught on the rubble, if so how do I prevent it? I've had my line completely caught quite often, not sure if it's from other people's junk but it takes a good 10-15min to unsnag it. Since I don't want to cut the line, because that would just add to the to the problem for other people.
ThabogusTV Absolutely, it is one of those nuisance problems that we have to deal with especially now that more and more people are using super braids. I think a large portion just cut the line allowing a mess of line to collect.
thanks josh what kind of bait do you use to catch them? also what are the best months to fish skyway for gags?
Pinfish, jacks, blue runners, and Skittles (I will let you figure that one out ;)). The best times are from Sept through December. (Depends on the cold fronts)
***** what about april -june? is it too shallow there for warmer temps?
I catch gags all year around at the piers. the spring and fall months produce best.
what spots and rigs would u recommend for catching smaller fish u can eat like sheepheads and stuff?
Hi there, great video. I tried going thru the comments, maybe I missed it. Are you free lining directly over the piles, or just to the side?
+jake210c Hello, we do both. You have to find the sweet spots, it takes a lot of persistence and patience.
Thanks , I will be out there tomorrow!
+jake210c You're welcome!
Great video !!! What is your recommended rod and reel set up to land these bruisers off any pier ? Spinning or conventional ?
Jrivera Go heavy, I use a Diawa Saltist or Saltiga with a custom Calstar or St Croix rod.
Looks like a great place to fish Joshua! I'm coming over from the UK in a few weeks on vacation. I seriously need to check this out. Have you got any tips on tackle and bait?
Hello Paul Jamieson Stout tackle with 65lb braid or higher is necessary. Live jacks and pinfish is the bait of choice.
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE INFORMATION.....IT WAS VERY HELP FULL ....WE JUST MOVE HERE A COUPE MONTH AGO AND LOOK UP INFORMATION ON CERTAIN FISHING ....MY FATHER IN LAW LOVE TO FISHING SO WE DO ALOT OF FISHING AND LOVE EAT FISHING SO THANK AGAIN
+valerie roberts You are very welcome, glad I could help. ☺
I will be going to skyway here in the next couple days my reel holds about 700 yards of line as a budget fisherman can I put 300 yards of 80 pound braid and the rest fluro or mono or should I try to put all braid with a 100 + pound leader?
I would definitely recommend using mono backing, all that braid isn't necessary and can be $$$.
Joshua Taylor Sweet. Thank You. Love the videos
We're are you hooking your bait , head ? Behind the dorsal fin ? What size hook ?
I have figured out where the rock piles are on South Skyway. My trouble is how far out do I need to cast to be successful and about how wide are the rock piles.
hey buddy, im headed down this winter, when is the best time for grouper on the pier.
I always had best success in fall, October and November.
What bridge side is the best? South or North?
I'll never forget my first time fishing that pier. I got slammed into the concrete by a big Goliath grouper. Not just one time but twice. We caught several grouper that day. Loads of fun and I hope someday I will return to catch a king there.
Andrew Palagyi Good times and a great fishery.
I ve known him for years!! The MASTER of the skyway!!!
+bigfish454m He is good!
Is the North Side any good?
Joshua Taylor what bait do you use to catch those. i just recently left skyway but i always use cut bait and fail every time its making ne want to know what the best thing to use is that way the ocean doesn't discourage me
+Cole Jarvis Hello Cole, live blue runners, jacks, pinfish, pigfish and cut mackerel work very well.
+Joshua Taylor (Salty Scales) i dont know what bluerunners are
Cole Jarvis DUDE RESEARCH IT!!!! OR DONT GO!!!! NOT TRYING TO BE AN ADD BUT THE GUY GAVE US GREAT TIPS.....HE CANT CATCH EM FOR YOU TOO!!!
Which side is better to fish from, North side pier or South side pier?
I prefer south but you can catch great fish on both.
Are there still grouper out there? Are you fishing south side or north side? Also, if current is running hard, can you still catch grouper?
Are there any rock piles like this on the north side?
That same vessel that hit the bridge changed (the summet venture) changed names and was sold many times before sinking in 2010 near vietnam.
+The Outlaw Cody Smith Interesting
never been there and heard good thing there. Do you see Sheepsheads and flounder also?
+Taniguchi Yuichi Yes sir, they are abundant out there.
if i should come back to live in florida,which we will,,,just don't know when.i'm buying a house next to or somewhere near to you so i can go fishing with you Josh.lol.you certainly know your stuff.true and good tips.
Thanks dawgs Baadz, I appreciate that.
Lol sorry I have a lot of questions ok so when you are standing looking at the east span every how many sets or rows are pilings have the cross diagonal ones
red fish fisher I'm not sure. I've never counted them.
hey Joshua what should I fish for in april
red fish fisher You have a slew of options in April, mackerel, snapper, grouper, tarpon, sharks, trout etc...
Hey Capt. Great video as always. What size hook?
Got it...Just saw a link for one of your videos on grouper rigging and techniques.
Joshua, Do you prefer incoming or outgoing tides?
I do best on the last two hours of the incoming and the first hour of the outgoing.
+Joshua Taylor (Salty Scales) Awesome thanks for the viedos and tips! I am new to the Tampa Bay Area. Grew up fishing the panhandle in the panama city area. Feeling a bit outta my element down here but your videos are quite helpful. Thanks again.
You will get the hang of it, you are welcome. Let us know how you do. :)
If ur going south on 75 and get off at exit 228.. Does that bring u to the south pier?
I'm planning to be there the last week of November, what is best type of fish at that time and the best kind of bait. Thanks.
***** Hello that is a relative question but I love using jacks and pinfish for grouper this time of year. Shrimp and fiddlers will do well for sheepshead.
What kind of bait do you use? live, dead, or artificial? Do you use any sinkers? Do you put it right next to the rocks or on them?
I mainly use live bait, pinfish, jacks, pigfish etc...
what side the tampa or sarasota do you think holds the best, most, and biggest fish? also do you have any preferred weather or tide???
Hello Joseph, it depends on what type of fish. They both are great fisheries. Try and go when the barometer is rising near a new or full moon for the best results. High tide at dark or sun rise, with a rising barometer and new moon is deadly. ;)
Does this method also work on north pier?
It definitely does
@@Saltyscales
Awsome thanks
Hey Josh! What size class reel are you using for the grouper?
Is this the pier near pinellas or near Sarasota
Near the sarasota
@joshua taylor i dont get it where are the crossings where the rocks are
You have to find the pilings that cross.
Do you catch black grouper at the skyway peir?
Yes
When is the best time of the year to Grouper fish from Skyway fishing pier
Can catch the grouper and snapper year round or do they shut off during certain seasons? I know the limits and seasons for keeping them go on and off, but is there a right and wrong time for finding them? I feel like in summer or winter the fish may move offshore...
The mildly cooler periods during transition from summer to fall and winter to spring always produce great action but you can't beat July snapper fishing.
***** thanks! Do the snapper eat pinfish too? I was thinking cut greenbacks or squid strips on bucktail jigs
They definitely will eat small pinfish. Sardines and small threadfins can;t be beat.
Are these rock piles also on the north pier?
Devinv Yes indeed
Thanks for the tips! Here for vacation from Virginia... Do you typically catch your bait from the same place on the bridge? Do you just use a simple bottom rig or do you try to sabiki them up?
Welcome, you can catch bait anywhere on the pier. A self made sabiki tipped with shrimp will work just fine.
The only thing that confuses me is that you mentioned about casting towards the crossed pylons. But then you talked about freeline. Once you freeline,, the batefish could swim away from the pylons/ Rock piles. Feeline is great. But i cant avoid your bait from swimming away from your targeted area
Could you recommend rod/reel/line/hook
What side were you fishing on North or South?
We fish both but I preferred south when I would go often.
Good video never fished there but I've heard great stories or grouper.
Thanks Chris, it's great for many species.
Are there tarpon and snook at the peir in early spring ?
Hello Jacob, the tarpon are already moving in and you will start to see the snook transition to the beaches and bridges in the next couple months.
At nite are in day time. To catch more?
If you catch a big fish, that for whatever reasons is not a keeper and you don’t have a pier net, how do you release them? Just cut your line? Thanks
How large are we talking about? Goliath? If so then you would have to cut it unfortunately.
Very informative video. I was out there during my winter vacation and I kept getting rocked. What type of rod and reel combo do you recommend?
Thanks, yes you have to be quick on the strike or they will get you every time. I use a Daiwa Saltist with the an upgraded drag. I like a 7-8 ft Calstar rod. The tip is sensitive but the rod has a great back bone to get the fish from the structure.
I'm planning to head out there soon. Thanks for all the tips!
+Supreme Fishing you're welcome!
Do you fish the North or South pier
I used to fish both.
Captain Taylor, is this on the south side?
Found the answer 😉
+Bryan Byak Yes this is the South pier.
are those black bars structure
red fish fisher Yes, they are rock rubble.
What conventional reel do u use
I have many but I like the Saltist out there with a modified/improved drag.
i have never tried this spot because of so many people that are there, is it over fished?
It gets fished hard but there are still fish to be caught.
Ok thanks!
Is the spot still surrounded by groupers?
Hello Peter, yes the bay is full of grouper but the pier piles have been pressured so much that the fishery isn't as good as it used to be. Not to mention you have to fight all of the fishing line that is carelessly left out on the reefs to get tangled in.
Which pier the north or south?
They both hold fish but I prefer south.
I fish the skyway often, I only seem to catch mackerel. Can I email you for some tips?
Id be willing to pay. Although I dont have paypal so Idk how
Thanks
Do you prefer the south pier or the north pier?
Personally I prefer the south, many more reefs.
thanks i like fishing here at the skyway bridge
You're welcome
It sucks they look down Gandy. I would free line snook at the first light. I would also free for Tarpon further out. It's gone now...
I agree, it was a great fishery!
hey what side do you like better north or south ? :]
I have always preferred the south because there are allot more opportunities. Especially since they closed the east span.
Hey Captain ....free lining no swivel to join lines ...is that right ....man that line is 💲💲
Yes sir, no swivel...Tie line to line, I prefer the FG knot these days.
Is it on the north or south side of brige
South but there are rock piles on both.
Thank you for the tip.
I'm gonna be fishing there soon,
And will use your secret and tactics I've seen in your other videos.
Good luck
im heading down there this week!!! hope to catch something
+blaze5053 Good luck!
caught couple off the pier. nothing to write about.....
That's okay, with each trip you learn a little more. You will be slaying them in no time. Wait for the water to cool a few degree, the fishing will be on fire.
can you get live bait off sabiki there?
sorry I read your previous comments and it was answered there. do you think a knocker rig would work well there? if so, what size leader would be sufficient for that?
+Jesmine Diaz No worries, a knocker rig works well outbthere, especially for snapper. Did you see my latest snapper tutorial at the pier?
What time of year is best? south or north pier?
Fall and spring, I prefer south. Fishing is pretty good at the piers right now but will catch fire in the next couple weeks or so.
once i get the right gear im going to try this thanks man
Sounds good Young, let us know how you do. :)