Upper Tampa Bay Fishing Report
Capt. Trajan Rodriguez
August 5, 2016
Tampa Bay - Saltwater Fishing Report
As summer continues the water temperatures in the bay are right around 90 degrees. This can make for a tough bite but there are still plenty of fish around to catch. This time of year the incoming tide can be more effective due to the fact that it is bringing in the slightly cooler water of the gulf. Fishing early morning or the evening during low light conditions is usually the best bet this time of year. Fishing at night is even better due to the fact the water temps drop a few degrees.
The mangrove snapper bite is on fire just about anywhere there is structure. These fish can be found at the bridges, rock piles, and many residential docks around upper bay. Save some of the small baits that are on the flat right now to use for chum. Light leaders and small hooks will be key to limiting out on the great tasting mangrove snapper.
The black drum are all over the bridges and are fairly easy to catch. The bait of choice has been blue crabs on the bottom. They are easiest to catch at night. I like to try and mark a school of fish and then drop the baits down to them. Most of these fish are in the 20-40 pound range and make for a great fight.
The over slot redfish are slowly making their way onto the flats of Upper Bay. Cut bait has been extremely effective during the hot water temps. Ladyfish, pinfish, and threadfins will all work great for cutbait.
Please be considerate of the fish when handling them and get them back in the water as quick as possible. Be safe out there and tight lines!
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