Spring is in full swing
Capt. Sean Goddard
April 10, 2016
Tampa Bay - Saltwater Fishing Report
Fishing in Tampa Bay has been incredible so far this month. Bait is abundant and so are the gamefish. Snook has definitely been the star of the show. I am finding decent sized fish in good numbers in small mangrove creeks and cuts as well as out on the open flats. There are some very nice fish mixed in with the smaller ones so don't give up on a spot just because your catch smaller ones. The smaller fish tend to feed before their bigger cousins so keep on working that spot until you get the big ones to feed. Pilchards are the bait of choice. I prefer a larger whitebait for the hook and some smaller ones to chum.
Use discretion when chumming, you want to reduce your presence. Larger fish know sardines don't rain from the sky, you also don't want to feed them. The point is to fire up the bite. Look for large redfish to be in the mx as well. We had a 45 inch fish on the line on a recent charter this month. Pilchards, large shrimp, and root beer colored soft plastic lures are doing well for the redfish. Keep your bait as close to the mangroves as you can working the shadow lines and oyster bars when possible.
The near shore reefs are still producing some nice sized sheepshead. Action has slowed but they can still be found. Small pieces of shrimp on a jighead is getting the best action from these tasty fish. Snapper have invaded the bay and are all over. Look for them on near shore reefs, rock piles, bridge piling, and docks. Big snapper are feeding well on small whitebait or fresh cut pieces of pilchard. Shrimp is producing fish but you will have to weed through a lot of smaller fish to get to the keepers. Snapper are tough fighters and great table fare. Don't miss out on the "full moon in june" spawn. This is the best time to have a shot at some truly large fish.
Key West grunts, another tough fighter on light tackle and a delicious eating fish, can be found on the near shore reefs. Shrimp or squid work 20160323_141721best to catch grunts. When you have kids on the boat these tough little fighters can keep them busy all day long with a strong pull. Kids will have loads of fun.
Book a trip today with Inshore 2 Offshore Fishing Adventures. Spring is here and the fishing is on fire. Kingfish have arrived and tarpon are beginning to arrive. Snook, redfish, trout or snapper pick your poison and give Captain Goddard a call at 813-731-3426 or visit www.inshore2offshore.com to book your trip today.
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