Living in NE FL/Jacksovnille area on the water, not too far off of the ICW, I have a great fishing ground in my back yard: flounder, reds, black drum, trout, jacks, and even an occasional tarpon. The incoming tide will bring pogeys by the ton, mullet, and lots of shrimp along with all of the spawning fish, to include snook, pompano, etc.

However, I can't seem to find the name of this particular nuisance fish but I'm almost positive it's the culprit ruining many a bait. Here's the typical scenario, put a few pogey out with relativle low weight, but enough to get them to the bottom and 8 out of 10 are destroyed by this nuisance fish. Typically they eat the eyes out first, and then start nibbling at the rest of the bait? Help, what are they?

Welcome. Most likely it's probably pinfish. They're great bait stealer's and are a real nuisance anywhere, whether in shallows, the surf, or even off shore. They also make great bait fo all the species you mentioned.

Have you seen the fish doing it? If not it may be a crab or two as well... Try no weights at all.