For those of us who call Florida home, there’s nothing quite like targeting snook under the dock lights on a warm summer night. Whether you’re using light tackle or a fly rod, this is the time when the fish come alive, and the action can be fast and furious.
Snook Fishing at Night
The dock lights cast a glow into the water, and that’s where the snook are hanging out, waiting to ambush their prey. These fish are smart, lurking just outside the light, ready to strike at anything that looks like an easy meal.
One of the reasons night fishing for snook is so popular is the fight. Snook are known for their powerful runs and surface thrashing antics when hooked, and in the stillness of the night, that first strike feels like a bolt of lightning. The adrenaline rush is real, and it’s what keeps us coming back, night after night.
Here at West Coast Fishing Adventures, we really like nighttime snook fishing on fly rods, and we take many people out with spinning gear as well.
Whatever your flavor, here are a few pointers:
Light Tackle
If you’re heading out with light tackle, keep it simple. A medium spinning rod paired with a 2500 to 3500 size reel should do the trick. Spool it up with 10 to 15-pound braided line, and tie on a 20 to 30-pound fluorocarbon leader. Snook have sharp gills, so a decent leader is a must to avoid break-offs.
As for lures, go with something that mimics the baitfish swimming around the docks. Small soft plastics, like paddle tails or shrimp imitations, work well. Cast just beyond the light, let the lure sink a bit, and then retrieve it slowly. The key here is to make your lure look injured or struggling, as that’s what snook can’t resist. Be patient and let the snook come to you—when they hit, you’ll know it.
Fly Fishing
If you’re more into fly fishing, this is where things get fun. A 7 to 9-weight fly rod is your best bet, rigged with a floating or intermediate line, depending on the water depth around the docks. The leader setup is similar to light tackle, with a strong fluorocarbon leader to handle those tough snook.
For flies, you can’t go wrong with baitfish patterns. Think Clouser Minnows, Deceivers, or EP Baitfish in white, chartreuse, or a combination of both. The trick with fly fishing is accuracy and stealth. You want to land that fly just on the edge of the light, let it sink for a second, and then start a slow, erratic retrieve. Snook are notorious for being picky, but when they decide to eat, they hit hard.
Fishing at night in Tampa Bay, especially for snook, is one of those experiences that just feels right. There’s nothing quite like it.
Book a Night Snook Charter With Us
At West Coast Fishing Adventures, we specialize in creating unforgettable fishing trips that you’ll be talking about for years to come. Our night charters are one-of-a-kind, offering you the chance to catch trophy snook under the stars with a seasoned captain who knows these waters like the back of his hand. Spots fill up fast, so don’t miss out—contact the Captain today to book your adventure!
