http://www.tampabay.com/sports/outdoors/captains-corner-prime-conditions-return-for-tarpon-fishing/2328385
Days surrounding the new and full moons in May, June and July are traditionally the most productive for tarpon fishing. Nature cheated us out of those days during the last of these phases. High winds, rough seas and rain cooled water temperatures and pushed many tarpon offshore and to the south. Even the tarpon that stayed weren’t much into chewing. Conditions have changed. Winds have subsided a bit. Rain chances are reduced, and water temperatures are rising. The next few days on the tail end of the new moon could be special. The strong afternoon — and into the dark — outgoing tide will be showcased. Crabs, shrimp and assorted baitfish will be swept from the bay and funneled through the Sunshine Skyway bridge and the passes on either side of Egmont Key. Weather permitting, there may not be a better time to get in on the action. If you’re looking for something better to eat, mangrove snapper have continued to cooperate inshore and off. Spend a little extra time, if needed, to gather some 3-inch whitebait; it’ll be worth your while. A chum bag will often help gang up the mangos behind your boat. Cut slivers of fresh baitfish and the morsels escaping your bag work even better.
Jay Mastry charters Jaybird out of St. Petersburg. Call (727) 321-2142.
- Jay Mastry - March 26, 2024
- Captains Corner, Gorta - March 23, 2024
- Dave Zalewski - March 12, 2024
