With water temperatures in the low 80s and a new influx of bait, Spanish Mackerel have shown up and huge numbers from John’s Pass to Clearwater Beach, which means the Kingfish aren’t far behind. There are many sharks in with the mackerel as well.
Redfish have moved to their usual spots like the points of islands around oyster bars and on the shoreline. The most important thing is seeing Mullet in these areas. As they are feeding on the algae it stirs up little shrimp and crabs, the Redfish follow behind, as well as Snook and Speckled Trout. Speckled trout have been in 2 to 5 ft of water. Scaled sardines are your best bet for bait, but if you are more into artificial, MirrOlure, MirrOdine, or a black and gold topwater such as the Top Pup or Zara Spook or the Zara Jr in the Redfish pattern will produce great action.
If you see birds working the surface of the water, stop, it can be a blast of fishing. Usually Jack Crevalle, Ladyfish, Mackerel, and mixed in Trout just frantically feeding will make for great fun with fast action.
The Kingfish will start showing up soon, so a lot of trips will be starting a mile off to beach on hard bottom, slow trolling big baits such as Shad and Ladyfish trying to get a giant King aka “smoker.”
So now is the time to book a trip for incredible action whether near-shore or inshore. The cooler weather will bring a comfortable fishing experience and seasonal species to target back to the Tampa Bay area.
Tight lines,
Capt. Craig
