Spring is here and the bite has really started to heat up. With temperatures a little above normal in Tampa Bay, things have started to happen fast. All kinds of bait have showed up in Tampa Bay and following it are all the pelagic species. Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, blue fish and bonita shouldn’t be far behind. As far as inshore species, snook continue to show up in good numbers after the freeze of 2010. The redfish fishery continues to be healthy, and trout are keeping rods bent.
As temperatures stay warm, the small bait will continue to make its way into Tampa Bay and the pelagic fish will follow. Spanish mackerel and king mackerel have starting making their way into Tampa Bay. Fishing these guys on light tackle, make for a fun and action packed day. Bonita and Jack Crevalle will also follow the bait into Tampa Bay. Make sure your gear is in good working condition. These guys will sure put it to the test.
Snook have continued to make a nice come back from the “Freeze of 2010”. We are not seeing the numbers we have “pre-freeze”, but are seeing good numbers and I believe they are making a nice comeback. Although snook season is open, and will stay open until May 1, I have elected to catch and release them only. We are still having a great time catching and releasing this beautiful species. Look for the bite to be consistent all spring.
Redfish bite has been hot from the start of spring and should continue to stay hot. Fishing the flats of Tampa Bay with live and cut bait has produced some nice redfish. Fish are ranging from 4lbs up to 15lbs, catching these big guys in a couple feet of water, is an experience everyone should enjoy.
Spring is a great time to fish with an array of species to catch. If you want to book a Tampa Bay fishing charter with Tampa Bay fishing guide, Captain Will Shook, call now! 813.732.5971 or visit my site. TampaFlFishingCharters.com.
You can also follow me on, Facebook.com/TampaFishingCharters and on Instagram CaptWillShook.