Tampa Bay Fishing Report By: Capt. Woody Gore

Snook remain catch and release only. There are greenbacks on the grass flats and at the Skyway. Net some, and there’s a good chance you can find a snook willing to eat them. Reports are coming in that they are hanging around the deepwater docks, passes, bridges, and there may still be a few on the beach.

Redfish remain catch and release only. Good redfish days have been reported fishing the mangroves using sardines, cut bait and shrimp on the north and south end of the Bay. Use live or dead bait under a cork, and you should get a good bite going.

Spotted Sea Trout remain catch and release only. Favorable trout bites have been reported and we should  see it improve as we get closer to fall and winter. Some larger fish are hanging around shallow water potholes and the bridges.

Last week, the inshore cobia report was dismal–folks spent time looking only to come up empty handed. We might see it improve if and when the Bay and Gulf waters cool off and they start the winter migration. It seems there are plenty of sharks, jacks and ladyfish hanging around with the mackerel, and they offer some first-class fall Tampa Bay fishing action.

Sheepshead/mangrove snapper: If you’re looking for these tasty fish, the fundamental places are bridges, rock piles, artificial reefs, docks and deep oyster beds. Rig up with a #1 hook, small weight and a piece of shrimp, oyster, mussel or rock crab, and you’re in the game. Be ready–there are some really nice fish coming from around the bridges and deeper rock piles.

Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing 813-477-3814.