Fishing Report

April 2025 Fishing Report

Upper Pinellas Fishing Report – April Update Winter is still hanging on, but things are improving! A few late cold fronts brought wind but not much cold. Now, with water temperatures back in the mid-70s, the fish are biting again. Redfish and Snook have been the highlight over the past couple of weeks as spring fishing patterns kick in. Inshore Fishing: Snook: Snook are moving to the beaches for their summer spawn and are feeding aggressively. Snook fishing will continue to improve as more fish arrive. Redfish: Large numbers of redfish have appeared on the flats from Clearwater to Tarpon Springs. With the bigger tides, they are easier to catch and less likely to be spooked. Trout: Still biting well, but many fish are starting to move towards the beaches. Flounder: A solid option for inshore anglers. Other Species: Ladyfish, black drum, and other inshore fish are also active. Offshore Fishing: Spanish Mackerel: April is a great time to target Spanish mackerel. Jack Crevalle: A strong fighter and a good offshore catch. Permit: Can be found offshore this month. Other Species: Tripletail, grouper, snapper, and more are available. Fishing Tips for April: Watch the tides – Bigger tides help redfish bite more aggressively. Hit the beaches – Snook and redfish are migrating there for the spawn. Try different baits and lures – See what works best on any given day. Check fishing reports – Stay updated on the latest conditions. Looking Ahead: Tarpon season is just weeks away! Soon, they’ll arrive on area beaches, offering an unforgettable fishing experience. SAFETY HARBOR’S FISHING REPORT SPONSORED BY: LIVE ACTION FISHING ADVENTURES – BOOK YOUR CHARTER Capt. Christian Zarra 727-433-1788 | Capt. David Blanchard 727-709-6592   Ormond Beach Fishing Report – April Update In Ormond Beach, Florida, fish activity is expected to be high, especially on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with the Halifax River area seeing a surge in activity. Snook, redfish, and other species are becoming more active with warmer weather.  Here's a more detailed breakdown of the fishing situation in Ormond Beach: General Activity: Fish activity is generally trending upwards with the warmer weather. The Halifax River area is expected to see high fish activity, particularly on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Target Species: You can expect to target Snook, Spotted Seatrout, Redfish, Sheepshead, Largemouth Bass, Bowfin, Crappie, and more. Inshore Action: The inshore waters are known for Black Drum, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Trout. Nearshore Waters: Nearshore waters are starting to heat up, drawing an abundance of finger mullet, which are prey for Amberjack, Kingfish, and Mahi Mahi. Offshore Action: The offshore waters are also exciting, with opportunities to fish for Tuna, Sailfish, and bottom species. King Mackerel Migration: February brings the start of the annual King Mackerel migration. Backwater Snook: Warmer weather has snook fired up, with good amounts of bait in the backwater.  Surf Fishing: The surf fishing is calm enough to use 3–4-ounce pyramid leads or sputnik, and bait of choice is a piece of frozen or fresh dead shrimp paired with a little Fishbite. The whiting and popano are hitting.  The mullet will begin to migrate.  Expect to find snook and other predator fish to follow. Granada Bridge is popular for fishing Mangrove snapper, Gafftopsail sea catfish, and Black drum Cassen Park is a riverfront park with a bait shop, boat docks, a fishing pier, cleaning stations, and parking.  GET ALL YOUR FISHING NEEDS AT BACKWATER PROVISIONS CO SAFETY HARBOR & ORMOND BEACH

March 2025 Fishing Report

March is an excellent month for anglers looking to complete the inshore slam. Snook, redfish, and trout will be actively gathering on the flats in search of baitfish. With rising water temperatures, fish will need to feed more frequently as their metabolism increases. Are you looking for a thrilling fishing experience in Tampa Bay? Snook is a prized game fish known for its aggressive fight and delicious taste. However, be aware that Snook has strict catch limits and seasonal closures, so always check regulations before heading out. What is a Snook? Snook are saltwater fish belonging to the Centropomidae family, which includes 12 recognized species—five of which are found in U.S. waters. These species vary in size and scale structure. The most sought-after is the Common Snook (Centropomus undecimalis), also known as Robalo or Sergeant Fish. Snook can grow up to 44 pounds and primarily feed on small fish, shrimp, and crabs. They are protandric hermaphrodites, meaning they are born as males but some transition into females between the ages of 1 and 7 years. Snook are easily recognizable by their distinct black lateral line and golden-yellow fins. Handling Tip: Always grab Snook by the mouth, as their razor-sharp gill covers can cause serious injuries. Types of Snook Found in Florida Waters: Common Snook Small-scale Fat Snook Large-scale Fat Snook Swordspine Snook Tarpon Snook Where to Find SnookSnook are highly adaptable to various salinity levels, often traveling into brackish estuaries and even venturing into freshwater. They are commonly found near bays, docks, seawalls, bridges, jetties, and shallow beach waters, particularly in Southern Florida. During the summer months, Snook gather in large schools to spawn in deep passes and inlets. Best Fishing Spots for Snook John’s Pass Clearwater Pass Canals, creeks, and river mouths They are typically found in water shallower than 60 feet, and the best time to fish is at night, especially during the peak of a full moon. How Does Snook Taste? Snook meat is white, firm, and flavorful—not as delicate as trout but not as dense as swordfish. It’s recommended to remove the skin before cooking, as it has a soapy taste, earning Snook the nickname “soap fish.” Simply season the fillet, marinate it, and refrigerate before cooking. Snook Fishing Update Water temperatures have risen into the 70s, causing an increase in fish activity. Large Snook (30-40 inches) have been caught frequently in recent weeks. Best bait: Big whitebait and live sardines. Best locations: Mouths of creeks, canals, and rivers. Note: Small cold fronts may briefly slow the bite, but fish quickly become active again as water temperatures rise. Other Target Species This March Redfish: Large schools are starting to appear. Best bait: Sardines, pinfish, and chumming. Trout: Abundant throughout spring. Best bait: Shrimp and whitebait. Additional Fishing Report: Pinellas County March is a prime time for fishing in Clearwater, Florida, thanks to warm water temperatures and active fish. Top Fish Species in March Snook – Found near beaches, in the Intracoastal Waterway, and in bays. Redfish – Excellent bite throughout March. Spotted Seatrout – Active and plentiful. Flounder – A solid catch this time of year. Spanish Mackerel & Trout – Common and great for table fare. Best Fishing Locations Near beaches Intracoastal Waterway Bayous, passes, and bays Fishing Tips Fish during early morning or dusk for the best action. Look for schools of whitebait, which attract larger fish. Offshore Fishing in March Mahi & Sailfish: Expected to arrive late in the month. Bottom Fishing: Remains steady unless large swells occur. Why March is a Great Time to Fish Florida’s waters warm up earlier in the year, creating ideal fishing conditions for many species. March Fishing Report: Ormond Beach/Volusia County March fishing in Volusia County offers excellent opportunities for Redfish, Snook, Spotted Seatrout, and Flounder. Surf fishing for Pompano and Whiting is also productive. Key Fish Species & Locations Redfish: Found in Mosquito Lagoon on shallow mud flats and sand holes. Snook: Found along deeper shorelines and near structures. Spotted Seatrout & Flounder: Best caught in warmer waters. Best Fishing Locations Mosquito Lagoon – Redfish, black drum, and trout thrive here. Banana River Lagoons – Redfish, speckled trout, and Snook found along mangrove shorelines. Sebastian Inlet – Great for Snook and Redfish near docks and mangrove structures. Best Baits for March Fishing Live sand fleas Shrimp pieces Clam strips Live croakers & pilchards Saltwater Assassin Vapor Shad Cut bait & live mullet Regional Offshore Fishing Report King Mackerel action is picking up on 70-90 foot reefs. Best bait: Live bait if available, but frozen Spanish mackerel, cigar minnows, or mullet work too. Snapper species such as Lane, Mangrove, and Mutton Snapper are common at these depths. Other species to target: Triggerfish, Cobia, Yellowfin Tuna, Blackfin Tuna, and Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) on the eastern side of the Gulf Stream. Ponce Inlet Inshore Fishing Redfish & Black Drum (up to 10 lbs) are abundant on Mosquito Lagoon flats. Tripletail fishing remains strong near shipping channels, with live shrimp and pilchards as the best bait. Speckled Trout & Snook are active around mangrove shorelines in the Indian River Lagoons.

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!