The Tampa Bay Times
The ultimate thrill for a fly fisherman is to carefully present a fly to a large unsuspecting fish in shallow water and enjoy a violent, aggressive take. The combination of early morning skinny water, which gives the fish a chance to relax overnight from daytime disturbances, and lack of summer floating grass will continue to improve. Watch carefully for disturbances that indicate moving and feeding fish. Herons and pelicans as they fly over the shallow flats will disturb fish and give you a target. Small baitfish scattering often gives away the position of large trout, redfish and also snook. A tail slowly waving will belong to a redfish digging for a crab or shrimp. Sheepshead will do the same thing. Stealth is the key to success. Wading will get you closer than most boats. Move like a feeding heron to prevent ripples on calm water that alert fish to an intruder’s presence. A fish that knows you are there may hang around but will stop feeding. Equip your 7 or 8 weight fly rod with a 12-foot tapered leader. A 12-15 pound tippet may be needed. A loop knot tied to a size 4 crab pattern in a color that matches the bottom with bead chain eyes and weed guard completes the setup. Cast carefully and accurately. Remember, crustaceans move very slowly. If you have follows and refusals, slow everything down. Always strip set the hook when the fish is felt. Trying to set the hook by raising the tip of the rod will usually guarantee a miss.
Fly Fisherman Pat Damico charters lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpatdamico.com and (727) 504-8649.
- Capiains Corner. Damico - December 26, 2023
- Pat Damico - December 21, 2023
- CaptainsCorner: Pat Damico - November 27, 2023
