Catching Bluefish

It’s hard to really target bluefish because they usually roam in the Gulf nearshore waters during the warmer months of the year. You might be fishing for a variety of species in the surf and hook a bluefish, or you could be looking for Spanish mackerel just off the shore and get into a school of bluefish. 

One of the most consistent places to find a bluefish or two is the Gulf State Park Pier; the size of bluefish lately has been huge, well outside the normal range of 2 to 5 pounds. Several fish caught off the pier have been pushing 10 pounds, and surf anglers who cast farther into the Gulf from the beaches have caught 10-pounders as well.

Most anglers who target bluefish gather them to use for bait for more desirable species. Tuna, swordfish, wahoo, and shark prey on bluefish, as these fish are almost the only species quick enough to catch them. Before heading offshore, try to reel in a handful of bluefish near the shoreline to use for targeting larger fish. Fresh bluefish, particularly belly strips, also make excellent bait for king mackerel and cobia, and cut pieces can be used to fish for just about anything.

Instead, my pal, David Thornton, who goes by Pier Pounder on Facebook, shared a recipe from a visitor from Maryland. Simply take the cleaned fillets, which have been kept on ice, and slather a heaping helping of mayonnaise on them. Add salt and pepper and sauté in olive oil until golden brown. You can also take the same slathered fillets and grill them until flaky. If you insist on frying, follow the guidelines for Spanish mackerel, coating the fillets in plain yellow mustard before battering and frying in 350-degree oil.