March Madness usually means basketball but, here in Tampa Bay, it means the snook bite is on. The snook bite was very good in February; so good that I’ve had 40-plus snook days and that’s no fish tale. While it’s been crazy good for snook, the redfish have been chewing as well. On my last few trips, we’ve boated some nice redfish, with the biggest right around 36 inches.
Let’s switch gears a minute and talk about sheepshead. Typically in February, the sheepshead bite is pretty good and it was OK, but I think early March is going to be better. The water temperatures have been pretty steady where they should be and, if you like a good fighting fish that’s also very tasty, then sheepshead is for you. You’ll need to grab some shrimp at your local tackle store, get a few light jig heads, some split shots and a bag of octopus hooks like the Gamakatsu Octopus #02410. I like this hook; it’s small and works perfect with a medium to small shrimp.
If you’re heading to Tampa Bay in March, you can expect a good snook bite with some redfish mixed in. The sheepshead will still be around; they usually stick around the first two weeks of March and then the bite slows a little for these bait-stealing convicts.
With over 24 years fishing the gulf coast and 18 years guiding professionally, I can assure you a fun fishing day on the water. Thanks for reading my report. I look forward to setting you up for your Tampa Bay backcountry fishing trip.
Sincerely, Capt. John Rivers
Capt. John Rivers operates Rivers to Bay Fishing Charters out of Tampa Bay and Tarpon Springs. With 18 years guiding experience and over 40 years of fishing knowledge, he can assure you a professional / fun fishing adventure. Single or multi boat trips available. www.tampabayinshoreguides.com
captjohnrivers@gmail.com
727-313-1781