Red Snapper on a Fly

Instruction By Thomas R. Dempsey, M.D. CCI

Red snapper season isn’t just for the “conventional” fisherman. Snapper will readily take a fly down below or on top. Deep sinking lines will make sure you get in the feeding water column without drifting off the target spot. Chumming will get them on top for the sight cast. Most any type and color streamer works. BIG hooks for these fighters – I like a 5/0 to 7/0 Owner slight off set to prevent gut-hooking. After all, most are going to be set free. A stout rod 11 to 13wt with 40 to 60 lb leader 5 to7 ft. Often times there are other guys mixed with the snapper, most commonly, triggers. If you are getting hits but no hook-ups, assume they are trigger fish. Their mouths are small so downsize to a 1/0 or 2/0.