Thanks for checking out my latest fishing report. As we edge closer to the
holiday season, the fishing has taken off! In response to the the dropping
water temps and shorter days, they become much more active as they start to
feed heavily in anticipation of the upcoming cooler months.
Particularly the snook. The red tide that has been plaguing our FL coasts fortunately
has NOT affected the areas we fish. All of Tampa Bay though, is also
included in the FWCC's executive order that snook and redfish be catch and
release only until May 10th, 2019. In my opinion, the extension of no
harvest into unaffected areas is a good move as it will keep them from being
over harvested and also allow these fish to survive and spawn to begin
natural replenishment. The snook bite for us has been absolutely
outstanding. As they begin staging for moves further inland these fish
gather in large groups and can make for non-stop action at the right time
and tides. The redfish which have been in decline over past few years made a
pretty good push into Tampa Bay late this summer. Most of these fish are
well over the slot and although not the numbers of past years, a definite
increase over the last couple. As always, patience is the key with these
heavily pressured fish. We continue to see some nice trout, and, as
of this report, still mackerel and snapper that will keep rods bent as
well as make for a tasty meal.
The dropping temps also means certain wintertime spots
will start to light up. Anywhere you can find water even just a few degrees
warmer can make a huge difference. The big tarpon that spent their summer
here and provided us with so much enjoyment, have thinned out, but still
plenty of juveniles in the 20-30lb class to chase up the rivers. There have
also been some healthy jack crevalle AKA "canal tuna" that are ready to bust
up some gear. It's a magical time on Tampa Bay that shouldn't be missed. The
weather is great, the scenery is beautiful and the fishing is outstanding,
so give me a call and let's make it happen!! Capt. Chris (813)
908-6222.
