Captain’s Corner: Mike Gore

It looks like we are in the same pattern as of last week. They are calling for mid-week showers, wind, and lower temperatures again. While this can drop the water temperature and slow the bite, it is much needed. We don’t want the water temperature to rise to fast. This pattern will only make for better fishing the rest of the year.  The bait this weekend at the skyway bridge was pretty tough compared to last week.

Snook are starting to move out of the canals and creeks. Cockroach bay has been pretty productive. This is a good staging point as the fish make their way out of the rivers to the flats. While some have been caught on live shrimp the most productive bait has been scaled sardines.

The trout bite continues to be hot in front on Cockroach Bay all the way down to Big Bend. Fish the sand holes in about 4 feet of water. Free lined shrimp or scaled sardines will do the job. I am still using lite leader to ensure a consistent bite. Try not to use more than 20lbs.

If you are looking for something to eat, monster Sheepshead are eating like crazy during their spawn. You can catch some nice ones off docks but if you are looking for the 4 – 5 lb. class, then move to the reefs and rocks out in the bay. There are plenty of artificial reefs and rock piles throughout Tampa Bay. The FWC website lists most of them for you.

Capt. Mike Gore