The inshore flats are “alive” with activity. Massive schools of mullet boil the water with every shadow that passes over them. Smaller mullet that inhabit the shallows have been chased up onto the sand by attacking predators. Schools of glass minnows have been getting attacked by all the inshore predators.
The good news, for the first time in months Pinellas and Manatee counties were not mentioned in the red tide report.
Flounder action is decent but they either haven’t all arrived yet or it is just going to be a slower year. We are routinely catching five to ten per day. Targeting them has not really driven that number up. Maybe they are just in different areas. Maybe there just aren’t as many this year.
Last week: The arrival of pompano. We got on them good. The Silly Willy/Uncle Neil teaser getting it done again. We didn’t have much trouble getting on good pompano action, something that should last for months.
Trout action remained the best bet. One location has been on FIRE. We have been catching them all morning long, with the bite starting to die by 10AM with the sun taking that high path in the sky and the water temperatures rising. The 12 Fathom Slam R “6 inch” has become my favorite underwater lure for big trout. More durability to withstand pinfish activity, it casts good and the fish see it: They eat it.
Redfish remain a mystery. Most guides agree: They’re out there but where they are is out of pattern. Things will eventually go back to normal but the redfish scene borders on the bizarre.
The drum are where they should be. And they are huge.
Things are great right now. Choices abound: Bridge trips? The shallows? We can do them both. Great hopes that red tide disappears and that we have a fun summer of great action! Get on it while it’s hot!!
As always: Be careful out there!
Neil Taylor
Owner and guide: www.strikethreekayakfishing.com
(Cell) 727-692-6345 LivelyBaits@aol.com
Owner and site administrator: www.capmel.com
Co-host: Capmel.com Radio, 8 to 9AM Sundays on 1040 “The Team”
Poachers are common thieves. See a poacher, report a poacher! If you suspect a wildlife or boating law violation, report it to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Reward Program: 888-404-FWCC (3922). Cell phone users can reach us at *FWC or #FWC, depending on your service provider. Most cell phones allow users to send text messages directly to an email address. You can text Tip@MyFWC.com ; standard usage fees may apply.
Supply as much detailed information such as the location of the offender, the boat description, number of people on board, clothing, vehicle information and give the dispatcher your phone number. Do this discreetly. You do not want to have direct contact with these people.
Capmel.com Radio, also known as Outdoor Fishing Adventures and Tampa Fishing Outfitters Radio Show is doing very well. As co-host, I am in the studio nearly every week and we have a great setup with topics and guests. Listen in on 1040 Sports Talk “The Team” 8 to 9AM on Sundays, live on the web or enjoy listening to the Podcasts at your leisure.
- The Neil Blog… - July 26, 2023
- The Catfish - July 26, 2023
- update - July 22, 2023
