It is officially Spring in the Tampa Bay area. Snook are all over the place and they are feeding well. Water temps are right where they should be, which puts the fish in a good mood, which means bent rods and screamed rags. Live bait is the best choice. But, if you like tossing artificials, no worries–you’ll catch your fair share. Here are a few lures that I like when targeting snook, redfish and trout. Headon’s Spook is my go-to for top-water. For redfish and trout, I like tossing a 4-inch paddle tail (colors: white, and clear with red metal-flake). Snook in Tampa Bay are live bait feeders, but you can get them to eat artificials–I like a 1/8-ounce Snakelock jig head with a Z-Man PaddlerZ. 
Schools of redfish are also showing up on the flats in a few areas. These fish are very boat shy, so be quiet and patient and you’ll hook a few. Once again, live or cut bait has been the best way to hook these skittish bronze beauties. Some of the redfish schools have been fished hard by locals and guides so, again, be patient and you’ll hook a few. They are mostly oversized fish, which means your drag is going to scream.
The sheepshead bite is still going strong in Tampa Bay. The rock piles, jetties and bridges have been producing some nice catches. Live shrimp, fiddler and mud crabs have been the baits of choice.
If you’re going to be in the Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg or Clearwater area, give me a ring. I trailer my boat to the best fishing spots, so we don’t have a long boat ride to the fish. With 15 years of guiding under my belt, you’ll be in good hands if you jump aboard my new 2360 Ranger and go on a fishing adventure with me. Let’s get you hooked up today. Thanks for stopping by.
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