Fall Tampa Bay — we are starting to see some cold fronts rolling in, dropping water temps down to the mid-to-low 70s. The bite is fired up inshore and offshore fishing right now, and with the holidays around the corner and the weather looking good, it's time to get out and enjoy Tampa Bay fishing.
The Tampa Bay area reefs and wrecks are holding a lot of Sheepshead, Mango Snapper, and some keeper Grouper this time of year. When you are bottom fishing these places I like fishing the slower tide so I can use the smallest weight possible to get to the bottom.
Snook: The Snook fishing is on fire with these cooler temps. We have been finding them around and up the major rivers, creeks, and residential docks — a ton of smaller Snook along with some over-slot fish mixed in. Best bait is still a scaled sardine or whitebait, with a white 4-inch jerk bait coming in second.
Redfish: The Redfishing is just starting to get better on the flats. Look for mullet schools in 1 to 3 feet of water and get into position with your trolling motor. Best baits: live sardines or pinfish, or jerk baits and paddle tail jigs for artificials.
Mackerel: Fall always means big schools of Mackerel in the bay and off the beaches — some of the best fun fishing around, for kids and adults alike.
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Capt. Jim is on the water regularly — dates go fast. Reserve your spot online or give him a call directly.
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