Captain’s Corner: Jay Mastry

The Tampa Bay Times

I’ve seemingly spent more time lately washing out tree leaves and pollen from my boat than fish scales and shrimp pieces.  Nagging wind and rough seas have thwarted several attempts to roam offshore.  It’ll all change soon.  Our spring run of kingfish traditionally show up around mid-March.  I’ve always done best kingfishing in 70-75 degree water temperature range.  Depending on when and where you find your readings you may find it warmer than that now.  It’s always a concern when it heats up too quickly.  We fear they may blow right by us or way out and around us offshore.  Water quality will play a big part in their migration and an abundance of bait or lack of will determine how long we can keep their attention in our area.  Tarpon like it hotter the better and those in the know are yanking on a few already.  Savvy tarpon anglers know where they hide this time of year, in some of our backwaters and “out of the way” cuts and edges.  May will mark the beginning of the 89^th Annual Suncoast Tarpon Roundup.  Progressive thinking tournament organizers went to an all release format years ago and to insure the continued well being of the tarpon fishery.  They have kept it a family affair with several different categories.  They offer different legs of the tournament which may better suit your schedule and allow to qualify for the big money fish-off.  For all the info contact the President  Dave Travis at 727-639-7203.

Captain Jay Mastry