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Tampa Bay - South Shore
Capt. Fred Everson
February 17, 2003
Tampa Bay - Saltwater Fishing Report
Southshore Tampa Bay Fishing Report from Shell Point Bait and Tackle in Ruskin FL
February 17, 2003
Spring finally arrived Saturday and the parking lot at the bait shop made the transition from ghost town to carnival in a heartbeat. As the air temperature climbed into the 80’s for the first time this year, the action on the south shore of Tampa Bay picked up accordingly.
One of the most interesting reports came from Apollo Beach where several sources reported catching permit along the steel wall that divides the inlet from the hot water outflow at the power plant. One angler also reported seeing four large cobia in the company of a manatee.
The best report is that big pilchards are being netted at several locations inside the bay. The surest bet for bait is still the South Skyway Fishing Pier, but it can also be found on some of the marks, and on beaches for those who know where to look.
The shrimp supply has been good, with plenty of larges and a good number of selects.
Water temperature in the Little Manatee River was back down to 62 after the rains, but it had been up around 64 on the low falling tide. Capt. Nick Winger said that he found some big snook in the river and that they were hitting live pilchards with abandon.
Capt. Chet Jennings reported a good day on snook fishing in and around the bayous and bays south of Piney Point. He said he caught and released several keepers, and hooked a big snook that broke off. Jennings fished with live pilchards caught at the Skyway.
The most encouraging news is that the whitebait is well up into the bay, and that it’s good sized. That and the cold fronts aren’t apt to be as cold as they were in January anymore this year. Shrimp supply has been good, with lots of larges and a few selects for those who are on the ramp when the shop opens. Water temperature will continue to climb, and the fishing will also continue to improve accordingly.
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