The Tampa Bay Times
Fly fishing conditions can be more challenging this time of year because of cold fronts, colder water, significant wind from different directions and fish that just don’t seem very interested in our offerings. Starting early on a low tide cold morning is an exciting invitation for some fly fishers and for others a good reason to stay home. Either decision is usually based on past experience with success or failure. Find a protected area free from people and boating activity. A flat that has been productive at other times of the year would be a good start. There has never been a better time to be very stealthy. If sunny, have the sun behind you to improve visibility being careful of your shadow. Disturbances in the shallows will indicate the presence of your quarry, usually redfish, trout, and occasionally sheepshead. Nervous water, wakes, scattering small baitfish, slow waving exposed tails and schools of mullet deserve your attention. Abandoning your flats boat can be useful. Canoes and kayaks will get you shallower and keep your profile and shadow low making wading often your best option. A line tied to your waist can bring your paddle craft with you saving you a hike back to an anchored boat. Use a good floating saltwater tapered 7 weight fly line to match your rod. A tapered 12 ft leader to 12 or 15 pound test should be attached to your favorite size 4 crab or shrimp imitation that is your confidence fly. Casts must be quick and careful, the first one always being the best. Under these conditions, a slow natural presentation is always the most productive.
Fly fisherman Pat Damico charters Fly Guy in lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpatdamico.com and (727) 504-8649.
- Capiains Corner. Damico - December 26, 2023
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- CaptainsCorner: Pat Damico - November 27, 2023
