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Fighting
Snook
Hooking
a snook is not very complicated, keeping him
hooked is. You must always be careful to use a strip
strike upon the take. Never strike violently up with
the rod. If the fish doesn't have the fly, it will come
shooting out of the water and bang you on the nose!
The most common method to hookset a snook is to perform
a firm, quick strip-strike. It is best if you strike
to the side or at a 45 degree angle to the water.
Upon the initial strike you must keep your rod tip held
high while you form a circle with your left forefinger
and thumb to smoothly clear any line. A snook will instantly
head for cover so you must be ready to prevent him from
breaking you off.
After
your line has been cleared and the fish is away from
any obstacles, you may begin to concentrate on landing
the fish. Use steady pressure and let him run when he
wants to. Just be sure to keep the snook where you want
him. Sometimes you might have to apply the brakes and
muscle him away from the pilings or mangroves. Always
use side pressure when fighting a large fish to efficiently
beat him (see flats basics).
If
you successfully land the snook, remove your fly as
soon as possible. You may safely hold the snook by the
lower lip with your thumb and forefinger. Be careful
to avoid the edges of the snook's gill plates. They
are razor sharp and can result in a serious injury!
If
you feel the urge to keep a fish for dinner, obey the
size limits! Fish over the 36 inch limit are usually
female breeders who will replenish the population. They
are far too valuable for our future to eat. If you see
someone blatantly breaking the snook regulations, try
to friendly remind them of their error. Never put yourself
in harm's way for a fish. You can dial *FMP on your
cell phone if you want to report any violations.
Florida
almost tragically lost their snook population due to
ignorance and stupidity. Let's not make the same mistake
twice.
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