The Tampa Bay Times

Fishing shallow water with artificials, especially flies, improves dramatically when you recognize areas that hold a high percentage of feeding fish. Nervous water, irregularities seen on the surface, are a signal that must be recognized. Water always has a definite pattern. When that pattern is disturbed it usually means fish are underneath the spot. Baitfish, mullet, ladyfish, trout, jacks, and redfish are all possibilities. If the surface is smooth as glass, a small disturbance is easily recognized. A slight breeze shows a consistent ripple pattern. If a smoother or more rippled area is present that’s your clue. Make a cast instantly to the spot and work your artificial through it. If using a long leader with a fly, cast so that the line itself doesn’t slap the disturbed surface spooking the fish. Spin tackle with monofilament or braided line is not much of an issue. When the nervous water is moving, it can be a school of fish. The disturbed water is always behind the fish so lead with your cast to stay ahead of the fish. This means cast where the fish will be. Remember the 180-degree rule for fly casting. This means that your backcast and forward cast must be directly opposite one another.  A false cast or two may be necessary when really changing direction. Good polarized The Tapa glasses with a yellow tint are an absolute necessity on overcast days. Bright sun and clear skies respond best to a brownish hue. A dark brim on the undersurface of your hat is also very helpful. A black permanent marker will do the trick if not already present. Tilting your head will further reduce glare improving vision so that looking through the surface is easier. 
Fly fisherman Pat Damico charters in lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpatdamico.com and (727) 504-8649.

Capt. Pat Damico
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