Clearwater/Tampa/Tarpon Springs fishing report 1/13/2008

[captrichknox]

Capt. Rich Knox of Absolute Flats Fishing reports the winter trout fishing is in full swing. There are many flats holding good numbers of big gator trout from18" and 2 to 3 lbs to 28" weighing in at 7 lbs. All this on light spinning tackle with 8 lb test. Best baits have been pinfish, select shrimp, 7" Berkley Power Jerk baits and 1/8 to 1/4 oz. Jigs with a rootbeer or natural shrimp imitations. All the barrier islands from Anclote Key to Fort DeSoto and a lot of main shore line flats in that same range are holding.

Nice redfish can be caught sight fishing many of the same flats on the beginning of incoming tide. Look for the big push of nervous water as they raise up the water moving up on the flats. On the high tides and beginning of the outgoing, fish the sand potholes near points and the mangrove shorelines with good tidal movement.

Some tar9pon and snook are in the deep water canals with dark bottoms and springs. They also are well up the rivers in the deeper bends. Look for undercut banks with either rocks, limestone and/or mangroves. Plugs, jigs, pinfish and shrimp work best.

We are now booking our spring flats and giant tarpon trips for 2008. Book early for best dates and rates. Check out our web site at http://www.captrichknox.comand call toll free at 1-800-890-9373. You may reach us by email at [email protected].

Tight lines and good fishing.....

Below is an example of our great winter trout: