Snook are an inshore species of saltwater fish that have gained a big reputation amongst Florida anglers and visitors to the state alike. Any angler will tell you that big-time fishermen and women love chasing after these notoriously hard-to-catch fish while on fishing trips in Tampa Bay.
In addition to the excellent snook fishing in Tampa Bay, you can also fish for these beauties in other parts of the Gulf of Mexico and some of the Atlantic waters surrounding Florida. Snook prefer warm waters, so they can typically only be found in the southern half of the state. Their limited range, plus the restrictions on fishing snook in Florida that are in place for much of the year, make snook a prize catch for any angler.
I’m ready to go snook fishing in Tampa Bay. What do I need?
To start, you’ll need a hook and line to fish for snook. No snagging.
In addition, fishing for snook requires a specific snook fishing permit – unless you are exempt from license requirements – as well as a recreational fishing license (saltwater fishing).
Before you book your chartered fishing trip for Tampa Bay snook fishing, you’re going to want to be familiar with the restrictions for harvesting snook. The best way to ensure that you are within regulations is to check the FWC snook fishing page before your snook fishing trip in Tampa Bay.
And, of course, you’ll want to bring a hat, sunscreen, and some water to drink.
Do anglers typically harvest a lot of Snook fishing in Tampa Bay?
Snook populations are affected by natural events like red tide or cold fronts, and therefore, the state of Florida has made efforts toward conservation of the species. The state currently placed a bag limit on harvested snook: one per person, per day. While harvesting snook is allowed, anglers actually often release the bulk of the snook they catch right back into the water upon catching them, instead of harvesting them for food.
If you are planning to catch and release on your snook fishing trip, your Guide can provide valuable assistance and education about the proper handling techniques for releasing snook back into the wild.
What does Snook taste like?
We’re glad you asked! Snook had a reputation for tasting “soapy” if prepared improperly with the skin on. If the fish is cleaned and filleted, however, snook can taste quite delicious.