Mangrove (as defined by Merriam Webster online dictionary: any of a genus (Rhizophora, especially R. mangle of the family Rhizophoraceae) of tropical maritime trees or shrubs that send out many prop roots and form dense masses important in coastal land building and as foundations of unique ecosystems.
Here's a good look at exposed red mangrove roots. During high tide, these roots are covered with water, and snook swim throughout them.
Three types of mangroves exist in coastal Florida waters: red, black, and white. The ones we encounter as anglers are most frequently red mangroves, as they are the variety that prop roots along the shoreline.
If you're looking for a bite, steer your boat toward the mangroves and toss a baitfish lure near the roots. Snook love to munch on the inside root systems of mangroves, but a community of bite-size snook snacks also congregate around these roots. You can find a variety of baitfish and juvenile game fish, as well as shrimp and crabs - all things that snook like on their plate. Because of these tasty treats, many snook spend a large portion of their young lives in and around red mangroves. Beyond the food, the mangroves also provide cover on which juvenile snook depend upon for survival.
Other than providing calories and cover, mangroves play a vital role in the quality of estuarine and offshore waters.
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