http://www.tampabay.com/sports/outdoors/captains-corner-little-tunny-dominating-along-coast/2341121
Little tunny or false albacore are hammering large schools of baitfish close to shore along our coast. Most action is close to passes and channels where tidal flow is strongest. Relatively calm conditions allow you to see the action from a distance, since diving terns and gulls mark the spots with fish close to the surface. Some schools of these speedy predators number in the hundreds. Good binoculars allow you to spot the action from a longer distance. Use your outboard to get relatively close, then shut off the gas motor and use an electric to position the boat so the fish will come to you, taking wind and tide into consideration. At least a 9-weight fly rod is needed with a good reel holding at least 150 yards of 30-pound backing. Sinking tip and full sinking lines are preferred as larger fish are often deeper in the water column. After casting into the feeding fish, retrieve the fly fast. Size 4-6 synthetic chartreuse and white fly patterns are best as they are more durable. A 30-pound shock tippet of hard monofilament is needed to prevent cut-offs.
Fly fisherman Pat Damico runs charters in Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpat.com and (727) 504-8649.
- Capiains Corner. Damico - December 26, 2023
- Pat Damico - December 21, 2023
- CaptainsCorner: Pat Damico - November 27, 2023
