Captain’s Corner: Tyson Wallerstein

The Tampa Bay Times

Spanish mackerel and Bull redfish are synonymous with fall fishing on our coast. Shorter days and cooler water let us know that the seasons are changing, even if its not quite as noticeable as other parts of the country.

Nearshore hardbottom areas like those found off of Sand Key and Blind’s pass attract a ton of bait that in turn draws in schools of Spanish mackerel and kingfish. Although we are still awaiting the first big wave of kingfish, the mackerel fishing has been outstanding at times and should only get better after the first series of cold fronts move through.

Collecting enough pilchards for an action packed mackerel session has been relatively easy the past few days. Plenty of bait has moved in close to the beach and can be cast-netted just after sun up. Look for any bird activity to give the bait away.

Big redfish known as bulls will often show up along our jetties and pass bridges and occasionally on some of the grass flats near the passes this time of year. Jetty fishing has been very good as of late, with plenty of chances at big redfish and snook. Freelining grass grunts and pinfish on medium action rods has been working the best along the jetties, while heavier tackle is necessary when fishing the bridge fenders.

Capt. Tyson Wallerstein
Flats Monster Inshore Fishing
(727) 692-5868
capt.tyson@hotmail.com
www.Flatsmonster.com