Summer in Tampa Bay is in full swing with hot water temps, hot air temps
and a hot bite!! Many different species are being caught right now. We've
been getting on the water as early as possible to beat the heat and
afternoon storms. It can be excellent early before the sun starts to
really heat things up. Later a quick stop for a splash at the sandbar is all
thats needed for anglers to get refreshed. We have been doing real well with
snook using scaled sardines. We're finding them right along and sometimes under the mangroves edges. They have been most active early and late, and although
the season remains closed, meaning catch and release only, they are one of
my favorite fish to target. Exploding on the surface as they engulf the bait
whole, then jumping and surging for the nearest structure looking to break
you off. Very exciting! Some big, overslot redfish (27"+) have been
roaming these same edges too. They often won't pass up a cut pinfish or a
nice stinky piece of ladyfish. After a couple down years it looks like we've
gotten a nice push of reds this summer which is great to see.
When sitting in a little deeper water (4-6ft) we've
been catching some big spanish mackerel as well as some very nice spotted
and sand trout. Also plenty of bluefish, fun-sized sharks and the even the
occasional cobia that we'll often see swimming around with one of the many
large rays. Although usually cooperative when they see a potential meal, the
cobia are often situated underneath the rays and a precise cast is required
or the ray will be hooked. We have also had some success with our juvenile (15-40lb) tarpon that stack
up in some of the residential canals and deeper basins around the bay this
time of year. They require a large helping of patience as they are known for
being super finicky but when the stars align, the fight on light tackle is
well worth the wait.
I've had lots of folks wanting to get on the water
before summer ends and with school looming just around the corner there
aren't many days left! So don't delay!! Give me a call and book your
adventure today!! Tight Lines, Capt. Chris (813) 908-6222.
