Snook Fishing 101: A Beginner’s Guide

So you want to catch a snook? Learn how to target one of Florida’s most popular and aggressive game fish by boat and on foot

By Max Inchausti – Field & Stream

In many ways, snook are the ultimate gamefish. They are extremely aggressive, fight hard, and grow to impressive sizes. Snook eat topwater baits, subsurface lures, and flies, offering something for every type of angler. Not to mention, they can be chased year-round in the Sunshine State. While you can catch snook in a few other areas along the Gulf Coast, Florida is mecca—whether you want to catch a bunch of snook or specifically target trophy-caliber fish.

Most commonly found in inshore fisheries, snook are one of the most accessible saltwater species in Florida. They can be pursued with conventional tackle or fly equipment from flats boats, bay boats, center consoles, kayaks, paddle boards, and on foot. But no matter how you fish for snook, understanding their habitat and food sources, plus the effects of tides and current, is crucial for success. This beginner’s guide to snook fishing walks you through basic snook biology, behavior, and what habitat to look for in order to catch a giant. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE