As we put the dogs days of summer behind us and start looking forward to
fall, the fishing here in Tampa Bay has come alive! The amount of bait
in the bay is bordering on ridiculous. Huge bait pods can be seen in
open water often being bombarded by birds from above while being ravaged
by the fish from below. It's usually spanish mackerel, ladyfish,
bluefish and sharks. When we target one of these schools the action can
be fast and furious with the baits often getting slammed as soon as they
hit the water. As we move closer to shore, the snook bite continues
strong with plenty of fish along the mangroves.
Although it's been
steady bite all summer, the dip in water temps has really helped keep fish
feeding through the midday heat. Anglers over the last couple of weeks have
had some outstanding days with an abundance of species available. After a
bit of a hiatus, the schools of large over slot redfish have finally decided
to return to Tampa Bay. There has been a lot of pressure on some of these
schools which can cause them have lockjaw but with a little scouting and
patience, we've been able to find some happy and much more cooperative fish.
Late summer is also a great time to target juvenile tarpon as they can be
seen rolling in the usual areas. They can be finicky but when we can get
them turned on these acrobatic fighters are a blast on light tackle. We are
also still catching some mangrove snapper for those who want to take home
some fresh fish.
A look around sees a blue heron in the mangroves waiting
for a small fish to swim just a little closer while behind the boat a mother
dolphin with her calf play. Overhead an osprey circles sizing up the perfect
snack while pelicans relentlessly crash into the water, gorging themselves
on the small fry. On our quick run to the beach for a dip and snack we slow
to watch a football field of stingrays glide under the boat in their annual
mass migration though the bay. Sure we have a great time catching a bunch of
fish but as you can see being out on the water is much more than just
fishing. Every day is an adventure and no two are ever alike. As we continue
our transition to fall, we are approaching one of the best times of the year
to fish in Tampa Bay. Do yourself a favor, get outside and enjoy the natural
beauty that surrounds us everyday. It's the best therapy there is! You wont
regret it!
Tight Lines,
Capt. Chris (813) 908-6222
