Flats and Tarpon Report
Capt. Troy Mainzer
June 3, 2014
Tampa Bay - Saltwater Fishing Report

Hey guys its been awhile since I've got a report up but I finally found some free time to sit down and write one. The fishing has been great lately for lots of different species. Most people have their minds focused on tarpon this time of year so I will discuss that first. The season started out very inconsistent but in the last two weeks the tarpon fishing has been outstanding. Better than it was all of last year. Tarpon are at the bridges, on all the beaches and are in the passes. The bite was hot last week with just about everybody hooking tons of fish. It made for some exciting fishing and was nice to see things finally pick back up. If you haven't caught a tarpon before, now is the time to do it. The season runs until about mid July and it is one of the most fun types of fishing. They make heartstopping jumps and will wear out the strongest men. A typical fight is around 20-40 minutes but some fish are more stubborn and will pull for much longer. They are one of the most prized gamefish for a reason.
On the flats, the snook and trout fishing has been good. Theres been lots of small trout but if you are patient and pick through the babies you will find some gators. Early morning is the best time for the big trout. Snook have been tucked up under the mangroves and also on the beaches early in the morning before the crowds come onto the beach. Redfish have been very scattered in my part of the bay. The big schools I have been seeing seem to have broken up. When I've been poling we are seeing lots of single fish and there have been fish under the mangroves and in the potholes.
Mackerel and sharks have been biting very well also and are a great time if you are looking for some action.
I will try to get some pictures up in the next few days when I have some time but in the meantime get out on the water and catch some fish! Make sure to be courteous when out on the beach and try to run for away from the beach in order to not spook the fish that many anglers spend hours pursuing. All it takes is one boat running too close to ruin the bite.
Call me at 813-293-4750 or email me at [email protected] to book your charter today!
Tight lines,
Captain Troy Mainzer
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