First timer on the bridges

[gonfishin]

Hey guys, first let me thank those guys on giving me some heads up on the spots close to where I live on freshwater fishing. But I can't wait to try a shot on the bridges down in the keys. That's where my question comes in; which bridge would be the one for a person like me (first time in the keys) to do decent, on a first trip? I know, knowledge has alot to do with it of course, but as far as getting my rods wet of saltwater for the first time. which would any of you recommend? I would like to hook up, or at least try to land acouple of snappers to bring back home for dinner. I know fishing is a search and you will find kind of a thing, but a good starting point always helps. Thanks for any heads up that might be given.

[bolo]

Here is a link for good read.

viewtopic.php?f=12&t=1045

Channel 2 and 5 is a great place to start.

[gonfishin]

I did, thank you! It was very useful and interesting. One question though, on the subject of catching snappers. He tells about using a bottom rig. Is that a sliding weight on the main line or a stationary weight at the end of the swivel before the leader?? Thanks.

[PhishingPhanatic]

The standard bottom rig I use is where the egg sinker slides on your main line. So, main line, egg sinker, bead, swivel, leader, hook. Like said, Channel 2 and 5 are great places to start. Both offer a range of fishing opportunities for different species.

[gonfishin]

Okay, great!! Thank you for that explaination of the rig. I was checking out the bridges on google earth and that Ch 5 is pretty long and that is alot of area to cover for the first day. And I'm sure the best spots is at least after the midway point. I think I will go with Ch 2 and see what happens. Also, I noticed another fairly small bridge on mm 62 (I think) but it doesn't look very deep. Anyone knows if that one is worth the longer drive?
My problem with the longer bridges, is that I will be taking an older man with me and I don't want him to get too tired. He was the first person I met 2 weeks ago when I moved here. and he looks like he doesn't have too many friends.

[PhishingPhanatic]

Don't assume the good spots are far out. On a lot of the bridges, the deepest channels are near the beginning. That bridge you are talking about at MM 62 is Toms Harbor, it is a good spot as well, but only during certain tides/conditions. For your first time, I would go to Channel 5, it doesn't have as many snags or as heavy current as Channel 2. Go to the south end of the bridge and park, and walk out. You don't have to go far to get to good spots

[PhishingPhanatic]

For your first time, keep it pretty simple. Get a dozen fresh ballyhoo and a few dozen live shrimp at one of the bait shops on the way down. The shrimp are starting to get bigger as the water is getting cooler. Cut 3-4" chunks from the ballyhoo and let them sit on the bottom. Fish the live shrimp around the pilings with pretty small hooks and weights, or on a jighead, on a light spinning rod while the ballyhoo is soaking, and you should pick up some mangrove snapper to take home for dinner. Make sure you guys have your licenses and know the size limits, FWC patrols the bridges often and doesn't hesitate to give tickets.

[DonOne]

If your friend is a Florida resident and over 65 then he does not need a license, only some ID that shows his age and residency, e.g. a FL Drivers License or FL ID.
You got some good tips above, Good Luck.