Saltwater Fly Fishing Tampa

Tampa is the Emerald Coast's most understated city. Ecologically, Tampa is renowned for the artificial reef, diversity of fauna, and white sand beaches. Fly fishermen will find a paradise while wading the bay's shallow waters. Tampa Bay is relatively shallow, not exceeding 12 feet in depth — the perfect shoreline for wading with a fly rod.

A favorite pastime among Tampa locals is saltwater fly fishing, especially inshore along the bay. Spanish Mackerel, or "Spannies" in local vernacular, are abundant in the bay's serene waters. De Soto Park is an exemplary location for reeling in Mackerel on a fly rod — the barrier island possesses 1,136 acres of mangrove, white sand beaches, and a pier claimed to be Florida's longest recreational fishing deck.

With the right fly and a well-executed cast, Mackerel leap from Tampa's waters. Anglers may want to invest in a fine wire tippet; Spannies possess barracuda-like teeth and can bite through monofilament with ease.

There's more than Mackerel beneath Tampa's waters. A plethora of species call the bay home: Pompano, Drum, Red Grouper, Amberjack, Snook, Sea Trout, and Redfish. Many of these fish are caught with more affordable equipment and even homemade lures — which is part of the beauty of this fishery.