Summer rains are the main story in North Pinellas as we approach late summer and move into August. Freshwater run off can definitely affect location of bait and drive some fish away from an area. However sometimes fresh water spill overs can attract fish less affected such as snook, small tarpon, and redfish feeding on small baits washing over. The early morning hours have definitely been cooler on the water due to the rain and cloud cover from the previous evenings. Fish seem more invigorated, especially trout. Small greenbacks are getting hammered quickly by trout on flats with moving water. Targeting glass minnow schools drifting over the flats is a great way to find feeding fish, also including mackerel, ladyfish and small sharks. On recent trips with kids for summer fish camps, many of the captains chose to fish for sharks using cut pieces of mullet, mackerel or jacks. The shark action was good with several hook ups, landing 6 – 8 sharks in 4 hour trips. 50lb leader and 5/0 circle hooks will work on stout inshore rods or heavier rods for tarpon or kingfish. Snook action has slowed a bit likely due to them spawning all summer. They will soon move back inside the passes to transition towards the back country after August. Redfish has picked up especially during the high tide phases. Mullet schools are holding several larger reds, with the mangrove shores producing smaller, slot sized fish.
- Captains Corner - March 23, 2024
- Brian Caudill - March 4, 2024
- Brian Caudill - December 5, 2023
