Captain’s Corner: Tyson Wallerstein

The Tampa Bay Times

Good fishing remains in the upper reaches of Tampa Bay as the spring snook migration brings more fish out of the creeks and onto the shallow flats daily. Redfish numbers are also good int the area and choosing the right tide and time of day can put you in position to catch lots of fish in a session.  

Low tide mornings have been accompanied by a stout breeze early this week. Under these conditions it’s better to seek out those deeper spots that might be holding some snook. Bridge rocks, creeks, and deeper holes just off the edge of the flats will hold snook this time of year and have been the key to morning fishing lately.  

Afternoon incoming tides have been the time to work your way onto the flats and follow the fish up to the trees. When the tide is up, and the shadows stretch out from the trees with the falling sun the fishing has been spectacular.  

Live bait is key to drawing the fish from way back in the trees to the outer canopy where a well-placed bait rarely gets refused. Look for the bait, specifically pilchards, to be on the move over the next couple of weeks as it transitions from deeper holding areas to shallow flats. Follow the pelicans and the dipping terns to locate the bait. There’s a good chance if there is no bird activity at all there won’t be any bait, even if you recently caught it there.  
Capt. Tyson Wallerstein
Flats Monster Inshore Fishing
(727) 692-5868
capt.tyson@hotmail.com
www.Flatsmonster.com

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