cranksters
South Louisiana is being invaded by multi-colored flesh eaters. Not to worry though, the horrid Dormitator maculatus are well-known to locals. The “fat sleeper,” or more commonly known as the “storm minnow,” is a welcomed invasion.
The pudgy little minnows spend most of their lives lurking on mucky bottoms, resting on their fins, eating anything that comes within their reach, both live or dead. As early winter squalls, inclement weather, and storms displace water, so are these mini-full course meals.
According to veteran Louisiana Captain Joe DiMarco, “storm minnows offer fishermen a rare opportunity to cash in on some of incredible action as flounder, trout, and redfish gorge on these slow swimmers.”
When storm minnows invade the marshes, DiMarco focuses his efforts on back bays and channels. Here, water flows from ponds carrying these morsels into runoffs. DiMarco opts for an odd technique, “throwing traditional rubber jigs and redfish spinnerbaits will work, but for coaxing the toads (giant fish), I like tossing fat-bodied crankbaits.” DiMarco’s favorites include Mann’s Baby Minus Ones, Lucky Craft Fat CB’s, and Bandit’s.
Captain Joe recommends fan casting to run-offs, and using a slow retrieve, one that accentuates the baits wide wobble. DiMarco additionally recommends spinning gear for precision casting in tight quarters around cane thickets. He also uses braid as muddy runoffs lets fishermen get away with the stout, visible line.
