Fishing Report

February 2025 Fishing Report

This report offers a comprehensive overview of the current inshore, nearshore and offshore fishing scene, targeting a wide range of species with detailed tips and tactics.  INSHORE FISHING REPORT The inshore action has been buzzing with activity as cooler water temperatures draw fish into predictable feeding patterns. The most active species inshore lately include: Sheepshead Schooling around docks, piers, bridges, and other structures Feeding aggressively on barnacle-encrusted pilings and shellfish Best baits: Small pieces of shrimp, clams, or fiddler crabs Use light tackle with minimal weight for the best results Redfish Found on flats, oyster bars, dock lines, and bridges Best baits: Live shrimp, cut bait, or soft plastic paddletails on jigheads Look for birds, mullet, or bait activity to locate prime zones Trout Biting well around mangroves, flats, and oyster bars during the day Hotspots at night: Bridge and dock lights Best baits: Freelined live shrimp or soft plastics worked slowly near ambush points Snook Hard to catch but found in back bay and upper bay areas Prefer wind-protected, sun-warmed shallows Best times: Solunar major and minor feeding windows Best baits: Live baits or slow-moving artificial lures NEARSHORE FISHING REPORT Nearshore action has been fantastic, with a variety of species keeping anglers busy. Hogfish Main focus nearshore Best bait: Live shrimp on light tackle with minimal weight and a 3-4/0 hook Common catches on 10-hour all-day trips and 5-hour half-day trips Lane Snapper Back open and biting aggressively Best baits: Squid, shrimp, and small cut threadfins Showing up in excellent numbers Mangrove Snapper Hit-or-miss but can be found while targeting hogfish Best bait: Small live shrimp or cut threadfin chunks on lighter rigs Red Grouper Back open, found in deeper nearshore waters Best baits: Larger live baits or hefty dead baits (squid strips, whole threadfins) Recommended tackle: 50-60lb leaders, 6/0 hooks OFFSHORE FISHING REPORT Offshore fishing remains red-hot, with a mix of bottom-dwelling and pelagic species providing action. Red Grouper Consistent offshore catches Best baits: Big live pinfish or large cut baits (bonita strips) Recommended tackle: Heavy leaders (60-80lb test), 7-10/0 hooks Mangrove Snapper Abundant offshore Best bait: Cut threadfins on double snell rigs For larger fish, try small live pinfish Yellowtail Snapper Prolific and easy to catch Best baits: Small strips of squid or cut threadfins Mutton Snapper Strong catches recently Best baits: Larger dead baits (threadfins) or live bait rigs ALWAYS CHECK THE FWC FISHING REGULATIONS AT: https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/

January 2025 Fishing Report

This report offers a comprehensive overview of the current inshore fishing scene,targeting a wide range of species with detailed tips and tactics. Here's a breakdown: Redfish Where to Fish: Mangroves, grass flats, oyster bars, bridges, jetties, and dock lines. Best Baits: Live shrimp (consistent), soft plastics, or cut bait near active mullet schools. Pro Tip: Use dead baits on higher tides to draw in fish holding in deeper cover. Sheepshead Where to Fish: Hard structures like docks, piers, jetties, and rock piles, especially those covered in barnacles or near oysters. Best Baits: Shrimp, fiddler crabs, and barnacle chunks on small hooks with minimal weight. Pro Tip: Use light tackle for the best chance to hook these bait-stealing experts. Trout Where to Fish: Dock and bridge lights at night, flats, mangroves, and oyster bars during the day. Best Baits: Live shrimp and soft plastics. Pro Tip: Focus on areas with visible baitfish or shrimp to find larger trout. Snook Where to Fish: Back Bay areas, mouths of creeks, rivers, and bayous. Best Baits: Slow-moving lures or well-placed live baits. Pro Tip: Time your outings with solunar feeding periods for better results in cooler water. Flounder Where to Fish: Sandy areas near structures, sandbars, or sandy flats close to oyster bars and mangroves. Best Baits: Soft plastics and live bait fished close to the bottom. Pro Tip: Work your baits slowly and deliberately to mimic natural prey. Pompano Where to Fish: Sandy bottoms near passes, bridges, and other structures. Best Baits: Pompano jigs bounced along the bottom. Pro Tip: Stay mobile to locate active schools for better success. Key Fishing Tips1. Snook: Use live baits like greenbacks or shrimp, and target night feeders with flairhawks or soft plastics.2. Redfish: Focus on mangroves and oyster bars; use dead baits on higher tides.3. Trout: Look for them on deeper flats and potholes; soft plastics and shrimp arereliable.4. Tarpon: Full moons during crab flushes are the prime time to target them.5. Flounder: Bottom baits near sandy structures are your best bet.6. Pompano: Keep moving until you locate their bite.7. Sharks: Use big dead baits in areas with moving water for consistent action.ConclusionFrom redfish and sheepshead to snook and pompano, there’s no shortage of action in the inshore waters. Match your bait and tactics to the target species, and you'll be rewarded with a memorable day on the water!

October 2024 Fishing Report

Inshore, nearshore, and offshore conditions around the Tampa Bay area in October 2024.

The Notorius "Convict Fish" Sheephead!

The Art of Sheepshead Fishing Introduction: Sheepshead fishing, also known as the pursuit of convict fish, is a thrilling and rewarding endeavor that captivates anglers of all skill levels. These elusive and cunning creatures offer a unique challenge that requires patience, skill, and a bit of strategy. In this beginner's guide, we'll explore the fascinating world of sheephead fishing, providing essential tips and techniques to help you reel in these prized catches. Understanding Sheepshead: Sheepshead, scientifically known as Archosargus probatocephalus, are a species of fish characterized by their distinct appearance and impressive fighting abilities. Recognizable by their silver-gray bodies, black bands, and strong, protruding teeth, these fish inhabit coastal waters, particularly around rocky structures, jetties, and piers. Best Fishing Gear: To maximize your chances of success when targeting sheepshead, it's crucial to use the right fishing gear. Opt for a medium to heavy-action spinning or baitcasting rod, paired with a reel that can handle the fight these powerful fish put up. A braided line with a fluorocarbon leader provides the necessary strength and visibility to handle the unpredictable nature of sheepshead. Bait Selection: Sheepshead are notorious for their selective feeding habits, often requiring a strategic approach to bait selection. Preferred baits include live shrimp, fiddler crabs, and small crustaceans. Ensure your bait is presented naturally by using light tackle and adjusting the weight of your rig based on the current and depth of the water. Effective Techniques: Precision Casting: Sheepshead are often found near structures such as rocks, pilings, and jetties. Mastering the art of precision casting is essential to get your bait into the right spots where sheepshead are likely to lurk. Patience is Key: Sheepshead are known for their cautious feeding behavior. Be prepared to wait for the right moment to set the hook. Allow the fish to take the bait fully before setting the hook to avoid spooking them. Sensitivity Matters: Sheepshead bites can be subtle, so a sensitive rod tip is crucial. Stay attuned to any slight movements or taps and be ready to respond quickly. Timing the Hookset: Once you feel a solid bite, resist the urge to immediately set the hook. Instead, give the fish a moment to fully commit to the bait before executing a smooth and deliberate hookset. Regulations and Conservation: Before embarking on your sheepshead fishing adventure, familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and size limits to ensure ethical and sustainable practices. Conservation of these intriguing fish ensures that future generations can enjoy the thrill of sheepshead fishing as well. Regulations Gulf and Atlantic State Waters. Sheeps head. Minimum Size Limit: 12" total length. Daily Bag Limit: 8 per person. Conclusion: Sheepshead fishing is a captivating pursuit that offers a unique challenge to anglers. By understanding the behavior of these elusive creatures, using the right gear, and employing effective techniques, you'll increase your chances of landing a trophy sheephead. Remember to practice responsible fishing and enjoy the experience of connecting with nature while pursuing these remarkable fish. Happy fishing!