Catch a legal snook:  Let it go.    Let’s rebuild this trophy fishery.   The south shore is a perfect example:  We have plenty of fish to eat.    Literally: Not a bad trip down there all year.    This area has been very good not just recently but virtually all year.     And it is a variety of options.    The easiest target since July has probably been mangrove snapper.   They are still in not only good numbers but excellent sizes.   The bait is pretty easy to obtain for these trips.   The sardines are mature and just about everywhere.

Flounder another to eat.   The deeper sand patches are all holding these fish.    I use the 12 Fathom Mullet, SlamR and Buzz Tail Shad for these guys.    Good tidal movement helps but you can catch flounder, opportunistic feeders, on just about any tide.     Fish over 16 inches are pretty common but a majority are 13 to 14 inches.

Redfish action has maintained a good, consistent activity for those who prefer this fish.    The 12 Fathom mullet on a 1/8 ounce jighead, probably my favorite choice to target redfish all over Tampa Bay, most of the year and with the baitfish what it is- perfect for right now.   Target areas with baitfish schools and a depth of about 1.5 feet.

Speckled trout action is great.   In the right locations it is actually pretty strong.   The real unswing of trout action is coming nearer with the arrival of fall weather not far away.   But we have had easy action on slot fish ever since the hurricane passed.

Before we plunge into winter, the Spanish mackerel action will be very good around the south shore area.   The drop-offs off the edges of the flats near the open areas of Tampa Bay will have jacks, ladyfish and mackerel if the baitfish is there.    The kingfish migration may also create opportunities for this species toward the Skyway pier.

Want to know what’s going on off the Skyway piers?    To get detailed reports, check The Skyway Report on capmel.com.   Written by Paul Bristow every week, he keeps you on the heartbeat of the Skyway bite.  Get out and enjoy the easy action on the Skyway Piers!

*The lower Bay just continues to be great opportunities.    Again, in a battle that is never really over: The great work of FWC officers to target felony netters and keep an eye on other recreational offenders has led to better fishing for us all.  Their continued efforts to catch felony netters are making the south shore region return as a great fishery again.   But help them out:  Keep your eyes peeled for illegal activity and make a call if you see poaching, 888-404-FWCC (3922).  Your tips will help make cases and you could be eligible for a reward.   *

As always: Be careful out there!

September  22   Kayak Fishing Skool
6:30 to 7:45PM Bill Jackson Shop for Adventure (Pinellas Park)
Efficiency:  Be better in everything you do

Neil Taylor
Owner and guide:  www.strikethreekayakfishing.com
(Cell) 727-692-6345  LivelyBaits@aol.com
Owner and site administrator:  www.capmel.com
Co-host: Outdoor Fishing Adventures, 8 to 9AM Sundays on 1040 “The Team”

 

Neil Taylor
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