It seems we all have gotten a little spoiled with the size of red snapper we catch these days. The fish are just bigger than they have ever been in the Gulf. I can’t even remember the last time I had to measure a snapper to see if it was legal. Today eight-, 10- and 12-pound snappers are commonly caught. I think sometimes we all forget that a 10-pound snapper is a really nice fish!
Pinfish
The natural movement of live pinfish entices predatory fish, making them an excellent red snapper bait choice. They are also easily available and hardy. Hook the pinfish through the back to keep it alive and use it for bottom fishing.
Ruby Red Lips
The vibrant color and lively movement of Ruby Red Lips make them particularly attractive to red snapper, increasing the chances of a successful catch. Use them live for the best results and hook through the back to keep them active longer.
Cigar Minnows
Cigar minnows create a strong scent trail, making them effective at attracting red snappers. They are also easy to find in bait shops. Thaw the minnows entirely if using frozen and use them whole for best results.
Bonito Strips
On those days when live bait is hard to come by, Captain Price says large chunks of meat also work well. They use a lot of big bonito strips. Make them big enough so the smaller fish cannot get it in their mouths. That limits the frustrating peck from the little reef fish.
Fish Belly Meat
Captain Price also keeps belly meat from other fish they have caught to use during snapper season. “When we catch amberjack and tuna, we use the belly meat, which is usually discarded to make big snapper baits.” Price says his crew cleans the fish and throws the leftovers in the freezer for later use.
Using the Knocker Rig for Red Snapper
In this set-up, he prefers the ‘knocker rig.’ A knocker rig is where the weight slides all the way down to the hook as opposed to being tied on the main line above the swivel.
Creating a Drift Line for Big Snapper
Price also likes to use a no weight rig to create a drift line behind the boat for big snapper. Pitch baits are cast out away from the boat without a weight and are left to drift in the current. Many times large snapper will hang just beyond the reef as well as other fish like king mackerel. After tossing the bait out, put the rod in the rod holder with light drag and have someone keep an eye on it.