The call of the sea beckons me from my office desk once more. Another day, another blog post brings me closer to the open waters that hold my true passion – fishing the season’s bounty of menhaden along the coast. There is something eternally exciting about casting my nets amongst the crashing surf, waiting with bated breath to see what swims into my hungry weave of mesh. 

Will it be a school of silvery menhaden flashing in formation or a lone blue crab skittering sideways? The tugging and pulling against the current as I haul in my catch is a simple joy and reminder of why I love this pursuit, history, and way of life that calls me ever closer to the wild rhythm of ocean and sky. Today, I share with you some tips and techniques for how to catch menhaden, those plentiful and protein-rich fish that feed so many others along the food chain.

Necessary Items

Before setting out to catch menhaden, you must ensure you have all the necessary items. These include:

• A sturdy boat with a reliable motor or access to one
• Quality fishing nets and plenty of spare mesh
• Bait, such as shrimp or cut bait fish (menhaden themselves make great bait)
• A cooler with ice for storing your catch
• Sun protection, including sunscreen and a hat
• Proper fishing license/permits for the area you will be fishing in
• A good pair of polarized sunglasses to spot schools of fish in the water
• Gloves for handling the slimy and sometimes sharp scales of menhaden

10 Steps on How to Catch Menhaden

Step 1: Determine Location

Menhaden can be found all along the Atlantic coast from Maine to Florida and in the Gulf of Mexico. They typically travel in large schools, so it’s important to scout out potential locations where their presence has been reported or is known. This could include nearshore waters, river estuaries, bays, and creeks.

Step 2: Prepare Your Boat

Ensure your boat is in good working order and has enough fuel to reach your desired location. Having an anchor on board is also essential if you need to stabilize yourself while casting your nets.

Step 3: Choose the Right Time

Menhaden are most active during dawn and dusk, so these are typically the best times to try and catch them. However, they can also be caught during the day with proper techniques.

Step 4: Load Your Bait

Menhaden are filter feeders, meaning they consume plankton and other tiny organisms from the water. Using bait such as shrimp or cut bait fish will help attract them to your nets.

Step 5: Set Up Your Nets

Make sure your nets are correctly set up and ready to go. Remember the water depth you will be fishing in, and adjust your traps accordingly.

Step 6: Cast Your Nets

Using proper technique, cast your nets into the water. Be careful not to spook the fish, as they can quickly scatter if they sense danger.

Step 7: Wait for the Fish

Be patient and wait for the fish to gather in your nets. Depending on the location and time of day, this could take a few minutes to several hours.

Step 8: Haul In Your Catch

Once enough fish have gathered in your nets, it’s time to haul them in. This can be done manually or with the help of a winch, depending on the size and weight of your catch.

Step 9: Store Your Catch

It’s essential to keep your catch fresh by storing them in a cooler filled with ice. This will also prevent any unwanted odors from accumulating.

Step 10: Clean Up

Dispose of unwanted bait or debris and properly clean your boat and equipment. This will ensure that everything is ready for your next fishing trip!

Catching menhaden can be a thrilling and rewarding experience for any angler. With the proper preparation, techniques, and patience, you’ll be hauling in these tasty fish in no time. So pack up your boat and head to the open waters to catch some of the ocean’s finest bounty. And remember, always respect the sea and its inhabitants while enjoying your time on the water.

8 Things to Avoid When Catching Menhaden

While catching menhaden can be a fun and fulfilling experience, there are also some things you should avoid to ensure your and the fish’s safety.

1. Overloading Your Boat

It’s essential to be mindful of the weight capacity of your boat and not overload it with too many fish. This can cause instability and potentially lead to capsizing.

2. Using Unnecessary Force

Menhaden have soft mouths, so it’s essential to use a gentle touch when reeling them in. Applying too much force can result in tearing or ripping the hook out of their mouth, causing unnecessary harm.

3. Fishing in Restricted Areas

Be aware of any fishing restrictions or closures in the area you plan to fish. These exist for a reason and should be respected to help maintain healthy fish populations.

4. Keeping Undersized Fish

Make sure to familiarize yourself with size regulations for menhaden in your specific area. If a fish is below the legal size limit, releasing it back into the water unharmed is essential.

5. Disposing of Trash Improperly

Always dispose of any bait or fishing gear properly, and do not leave trash behind on the water or shore. This can harm marine life and pollute the environment.

6. Ignoring Safety Precautions

It’s crucial to always follow safety precautions while out on the water, including wearing a life jacket and understanding weather conditions before heading out.

7. Using Illegal Bait or Methods

Using illegal bait or fishing methods puts you at risk of being fined and can harm the fish and other marine life.

8. Neglecting to Release Unwanted Fish

If you accidentally catch a non-target species, such as a protected fish, releasing it back into the water immediately and unharmed is essential.

By following these tips and avoiding these common mistakes, you can have a safe and successful menhaden fishing experience while preserving the ocean’s and its inhabitants’ health. Happy fishing!  Catching menhaden requires proper preparation, technique, and respect for the fish and the environment. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a successful catch and an enjoyable day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions About Catching Menhaden

Do I Need a Fishing License to Catch Menhaden?

Yes, a valid fishing license is required in most places to fish for menhaden. Research and obtain the necessary permits before heading out on your trip.

What Is the Best Tackle to Use for Catching Menhaden?

The most common and effective tackle for catching menhaden is a cast net. These nets are designed for catching fish in bulk and come in various sizes to accommodate different fishing locations.

Are There Any Regulations on How Many Menhaden I Can Catch?

There may be regulations on how many menhaden you can catch in a single trip or per day, depending on the location and time of year. Researching and following these regulations is essential to prevent overfishing and help maintain healthy fish populations.

Can I Eat Menhaden?

While menhaden are safe for human consumption, they are typically used as bait or processed into oil rather than eaten as a meal. However, some people enjoy eating them, which are considered a delicacy in certain cultures. Just research any health advisories in your area before consuming them.

What Other Fish Can I Catch Alongside Menhaden?

Menhaden often swim in schools with other fish, so it’s possible to catch other species while targeting menhaden. Some common fish that may be caught alongside menhaden include striped bass, bluefish, and weakfish.  Keep in mind any size and catch restrictions for these species as well.

How Can I Help Conserve Menhaden Populations?

You can help conserve menhaden populations by following fishing regulations and practicing sustainable fishing methods, such as catch-and-release or using circle hooks to reduce mortality rates. Additionally, supporting organizations that work towards protecting marine life and their habitats can also make a positive impact.  So, let’s work together to ensure the sustainability of menhaden and other ocean species for generations to come.

Is Catching Menhaden Sustainable?

When done responsibly and within regulations, catching menhaden can be sustainable. However, overfishing and using unsustainable methods can harm fish populations and negatively affect the ocean’s ecosystem. It’s important to practice responsible fishing to help maintain a healthy balance in the sea.  So go out and enjoy catching some menhaden while also being environmentally conscious! 

Conclusion

Catching menhaden is a fun and exciting experience and plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem and sustainable fishing practices. With the proper techniques on how to catch menhaden and equipment, you can easily attract these small but mighty baitfish, providing you with an abundant supply for your next fishing trip or even as a source of food for larger game fish. 

Remember to use a cast net or chumming method to attract the menhaden school and be patient with your approach. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this blog post, you will indeed have success in catching menhaden. Additionally, consider that conservation efforts such as size and bag limits are necessary to ensure the sustainability of this critical species. Whether you are a seasoned angler or new to fishing, trying to catch menhaden is an experience that will not disappoint. So why grab your gear and head out on the water?