Tips For Catching Gulf and Sand Trout

Let’s take a quick look at catching and silver (Gulf) trout which are in good numbers in the surf, channels and around oil platforms in the Gulf of Mexico.

Sand trout are often found in sandy or muddy bottoms, while Gulf trout are typically found in the surf or deeper waters near  reefs, rigs and jetties.

Natural bait options for sand trout and Gulf trout include shrimp, squid and cut bait.
Artificial lures such as soft plastics (grubs, curly-tail jigs), spoons, are effective for targeting both species. Brightly colored lures in colors like hot pink and chartreuse can be effective in attracting the attention of sand trout and Gulf trout, especially in murky water conditions.

Sand Seatrout

Sand trout and Gulf trout are often more active during moving tides, particularly during incoming tides when baitfish are being swept into feeding areas.
Look for areas with moderate current flow, such as channels, cuts, and points.

In clear water, use lighter line and leader to avoid spooking fish, while in murky water, heavier line and leader may be necessary for better visibility. A

Experiment with different retrieval speeds and jigging motions to determine what triggers bites. They often prefer a slower, more subtle presentation. Pay attention to subtle strikes, as sand trout and Gulf trout may not always hit lures aggressively. A slight twitch or hesitation in your line could indicate a bite.