The Tampa Bay Timrs
Shallow water fly fishing conditions can be more challenging this time of year because of cold fronts, colder water, significant wind from different directions, and fish that just don’t seem very interested in our offerings. Starting early on a low-tide cold morning is an exciting invitation for some fly fishers and for others a good reason to stay home. Always check tide charts then find a well-protected familiar area that has been productive at other times of the year. There has never been a better time to be very stealthy. If sunny, have the sun behind you to improve visibility, being careful of your shadow. Disturbances in the shallows will indicate the presence of your quarry, usually redfish, trout, and occasionally sheepshead. Nervous water, wakes, scattering small baitfish, slow-waving exposed tails and schools of mullet deserve your attention. Canoes and kayaks get you shallower and keep your profile and shadow low, making wading often your best option. It is also a great way to transport your many accessories. A line tied to your waist can bring your paddle craft with you. The same line can anchor the boat allowing you to get closer to the fish. Use a good floating saltwater tapered 7-weight fly line to match your rod. A tapered 9-foot leader to 20-pound test should be attached to your favorite size 4 crab or shrimp imitation that is your confidence fly. A fly color that matches the bottom will narrow your choices. Casts must be quick and careful, the first one always being the best. A slow natural presentation is the most productive.
Fly fisherman and casting instructor Pat Damico charters lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at www.captpatdamico.com and (727) 504-8649.
- Capiains Corner. Damico - December 26, 2023
- Pat Damico - December 21, 2023
- CaptainsCorner: Pat Damico - November 27, 2023
