Pompano resemble a permit, but they don't grow nearly as large. Most pompano will never reach 6 pounds, while 40 pound permit are common.
Pompano are found inshore or near shore along sandy beaches, oyster banks and over grass beds. They are a very popular fish among surf fishermen because they are fairly easy to catch and they taste excellent. These fish do spawn offshore and they can be found in water deeper than 100 feet.
Catching Pompano
Most fishermen catch pompano while surf fishing. This can be done with fairly light tackle since pompano will average 1 to 2 pounds. Some of the same techniques that surf fishermen use to catch sheepshead, snook and other species will also work for pompano. Sand fleas are your best bait for pompano. They are fairly easy to catch and keep alive. If you look for the "V" marks in the sand as the waves retreat back into the ocean, you can locate a colony of sand fleas. Dig them up, place them in a bucket with a layer of damp sand and you will be set for the day. Make sure not to submerge them in water because they will drown. Many anglers use a small hook with a 1/2 oz. sinker and a sand flea. That's it. Pompano fishing is pretty basic, but it can be a lot of fun and they taste great.
|
|