Capt. Kevin Chamberlain
The name of the game is definitely tarpon. Though it's not the only game in town, tarpon are the main quest for most anglers now here in southwest Florida. And, we're in prime time. They've been here in decent numbers since last month and will hopefully hang around thru July. From Tampa Bay to Captiva Island, the numbers have been good. They've been taking live crabs on spinning gear and Black Death tarpon flies tied in black and red, and black and purple.
The Sarasota area has a lot of the big spawners from Anna Maria Island, south to Venice. Some days they're showing well, making it easy to set up on them. Other days they'll show once or twice, making it a little more difficult.
In Lower Tampa Bay, look for schools along the beaches at Bean Point, inside around the Bulkhead, the mouth of the Manatee River and out around Rattlesnake Key. If you like heavy tackle action, the Skyway Bridge holds good numbers. On the north side of the bridge, you'll usually find rollers in areas around Bunces Pass and Mullet Key.
Near Charlotte Harbor, Little Gasparilla, Gasparilla and Captiva Islands have also produced. In the harbor, juvenile tarpon are showing in decent numbers, too. We've also been getting redfish and trout in the same areas.
Thanks,
Capt. Kevin Chamberlain
http://www.flatsangler.com
(941) 366-FISH (3474)
