Captain’s Corner: Ed Walker

By Ed Walker

Through one of the windiest April’s I can recall, it has been difficult to get out fishing, much less keep track of any particular patterns the fish are using. One species that keeps appearing in random locations in the North Pinellas area is the tarpon. Although I have not targeted them directly, I have seen a few rolling or swimming by each day while targeting other things. If the winds ever stop blowing I suspect a flow of fish could be recognized which would present some early season tarpon action.

Experienced anglers understand that these “pre-season” fish are often more likely to bite, particularly when fly fishing. The fish have migrated here from distant points unknown and often lay up in shallow water to regroup. Most have not seen a lure, or even a boat, in a long time so you do not have to get super tricky to fool one. Later in the summer after they have made many laps up and down the Gulf beaches and had all manner of fly patterns flung at them, they get much harder to feed.

Perhaps the best way to start getting dialed in on the spring run would be to get out before daylight on a calm day (if we ever have one again) and just drift. There is no better way to find tarpon than by seeing them roll on the surface. Sitting quietly and observing their movements and habits before moving in to cast is a good idea. It may also keep you from spooking fish you didn’t realize were sitting motionless nearby.