http://www.tampabay.com/sports/outdoors/captains-corner-extended-season-creates-more-stir-for-red-snapper/2328926
Red snapper season has been extended and is causing a stir. Until about 15 years ago, red snapper were more of an incidental catch than a targeted species. But in June 2002, commercial operation of an oil pipeline began in the gulf. The 753-mile pipeline would start in Mobile, Ala., cut across the gulf to the mouth of Tampa Bay and make landfall at Port Manatee in Manatee County. Surprisingly, the pipe ended up creating a habitat that attracted fish. It seems just after the pipeline was in place, there was an increase in red snapper off our coast. Pinellas County red snapper have become so abundant that anglers fishing in less than 50 feet have found them. Better fishing seems to be in deeper water and the best is in 140 feet. There are even red snapper now found inside Tampa Bay. Recent catches have been reported as being some the “best fishing ever” by well-seasoned anglers.
Larry Blue charters the Niki Joe out of Madeira Beach. Call (727) 871-1058 or visit captainlarryblue.com.
- Jay Mastry - March 26, 2024
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