Captain’s Corner: Tyson Wallerstein

The Tampa Bay Times

Rain cooled water has been helpful In keeping the fish active on recent trips in Tampa Bay. Snook, Redfish,  mangrove snapper and Jack crevall are all targetable species this week. The red tide bloom has receded out of certain areas throughout the bay offering more options for fishing spots. 

Rocks and bridge structure serve as perfect habitat for mangrove snapper and passing schools of jack crevall. Fishing these structures during the the beginning of the incoming tide not only makes them easier to fish, but will typically provide some fast action while waiting for the tide to come up a bit before heading to the flats for Redfish and snook. Small pilchards free-lined against the structure while using a small hook will allow you to hook the sneaky snapper.
Medium to high tides will have the Redfish and snook pushed up under the mangrove canopy. Target points and bushes near creek mouths. Live pilcharrds and pinfish will both get the job done when the perfect cast is made and as the tide continues to rise it becomes more critical to get your bait in the shade provide by the mangrove canopy.