Searching for the best bait to use for snapper fishing can be a challenge. There are so many different types of bait that can be used, it can be difficult to decide which one will be most successful. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best bait choices for snapper fishing, as well as how to use them. We will also provide some tips on how to catch these elusive fish. So, whether you are a beginner or experienced fisherman, read on for some helpful information!
How To Choose Fishing Bait For Snapper
When fishing for snapper, many anglers will use either squid or pilchards as bait. The type of bait used often depends on the location and time of day. Squid is generally used during late afternoons and evenings when snapper is feeding near the surface, while pilchards are generally used during the day when snapper are feeding at depths of about 15-20 meters.
Snapper can be quite aggressive and will often take either bait type. Generally, anglers who prefer pilchards will use them over squid as they feel that it is less messy and easier to deal with after a day of fishing.
When using squid it is best to use a jig head with either a single or double hook. If you are using a jig head, then the weight is not needed as the jig head itself will provide adequate weight. The size of the hook should be no bigger than 6/0 if you are targeting snapper under 20kg and no bigger than 4/0 for fish above 20kg. The snapper’s teeth are quite small, so a smaller hook will be less damaging to the fish and will also reduce the chance of deep hooksets.
Larger squid should have their tentacles cut off as they can tangle your line or lure as well as being very difficult to handle if not removed. Squid can be cut into single or double tailpieces. Tailpieces are best as they prevent the squid from curling and tangling around the jig head. If you do not wish to use a jig head, then your hook should be inserted through the mantle of the squid near the tentacles, with the hook barb pointing downwards.
The size of the pilchard that you should use will vary and is more determined by the bigger picture. Generally, if snapper is feeding at depths of 20 meters or deeper, then a larger pilchard (up to about 8 inches) is needed as they fall slower allowing the fish to get a good look at it before devouring it.
If fishing for smaller snapper, then a smaller pilchard (up to about 4 inches) is required as they fall faster and can be ripped out of the fish’s mouth before it has a chance to engulf it. If you do not wish to use a jig head or hook, then thread the pilchards onto your line using either monofilament or a wire trace. It is best to use either monofilament or a wire trace as they are less likely to damage the fish if it swallows the bait.
Snapper have small mouths and their teeth can be quite sharp, so it is important that your hook is sharp too. This will increase your chances of biting into flesh rather than a mouth full of teeth. Snapper can be fussy as well as aggressive, so using the best equipment and sharpest hooks will increase your chances of getting a good result.
Snapper have been caught on many different types of artificial lures such as metal squids and metal slugs. The type of lure used will depend on what the snapper is feeding on at a particular time. For example, if snapper is feeding on small baitfish, then a metal slug will work well as it imitates this type of prey.
There are many types of natural bait that can be used for snapper including crabs, shrimp, and pilchards. The best natural baits to use will vary from time to time, but pilchards are probably the most popular.
The best way to use a natural bait is to thread it onto a size 4/0 or 6/0 hook and then use an elastic band to hold the hook in place. The bait should be firmly attached near the eye of the hook with your line running through the hook, out of the mouth and then back through the eye. This will allow the fish to take the bait without feeling resistance from the line.
Snapper are very strong fish so you need your terminal gear to be in good shape with quality swivels, traces and lines in order to land them safely. Snapper have small mouths therefore you do not need heavy gear. When using braided line, 8kg or 10kg will be adequate to land snapper up to about 15kg in weight. If fish are larger than this, then 12kg would be better suited when targeting them.
Conclusion
You should take into account the size of your fish, how deep it lives in the water column, and what other bait you are using. Once you have this information, find a bait that will match their needs- whether it be live or artificial! If you invest time in learning about these factors before fishing for snapper, then not only can you save money on expensive baits but also increase your success rate while out at sea.
