An Angler’s Guide to Catching Florida Pompano

The abundance of pompano throughout Florida waters makes it one of the most sought-after gamefish, even for shore-bound anglers.

The most prized species of jacks swimming in Florida waters is the pompano. Those looking for tonight’s fish dinner can find them throughout the state, off beaches and inlets.

Pompano can usually be found in shallow water as they look for crabs, other shellfish, and small shrimp to feed off. Many surf fishers will spend hours digging for sand flees - considered the best bait for pompano, but small-cut shrimp
pieces will work too.

Gulf Coast anglers use a jigging technique in a vertical fashion as they cast along troughs with small jigs tipped with small bits of shrimp. The Gulf’s calmer surf allows everyone on the boat to take advantage of drifting over a school of hungry pompano.

Color is important when using jigs. In cleaner water, you can try yellow, white, or brown hues, but in murky water, you’ll need something brighter - bright pink or chartreuse. Because pompano are bottom feeders, you’ll need a jig that’s heavy enough to keep close contact with the fish.

You may barely feel the bite, only a bit of extra weight on the line. Quick pops of the rod tip can mimic a fleeing shrimp and help with more strikes. Prepping the tip of a jig requires only a tiny piece of shrimp.

Surf anglers use longer rods to reach further out into the surf, but you can use any light inshore rod as well.

Pompanos may not be as glamourous as their cousin, the permit, but they are so abundant in Florida’s waters that they are one of the easiest to find. Besides the fun of Florida Pompano fishing, the puffy, white meat makes for great eating.