Let it rain some more!  The heavy rains recently kept the fishing out of the Dog Days conditions we often see in late July.    During the hottest time of year, it is my believe that the more rain, the better the fishing in the Tampa Bay area.  The correlation between rainfall and more active feeding patterns seems to be strong. 

The way things are:   A kayak angler can tuck into areas too shallow for most boats to go and pitch weedless lures over areas that have decent to strong current and the presence of baitfish and be rewarded with excellent speckled trout.   The weedless lures are a necessity at a time of maximum weed die-off in local waters (which also corresponds with all the rain we have had).  Without the weedless rig, anglers are going to get frustrated and give up.   Add it to your arsenal of tackle!

The olden days:   “Redfish have remained “king” in 2011 with great action throughout the onset of summer.   Some areas that are normally excellent for great redfish action have been less productive this year but going to other areas around the region has paid off with great results.    As with the trout fishing, one of your rods should have a weedless jighead or you are going to have difficulty delivering a “clean lure” to these great fighters.   Think “six to eight thirty” either morning or evening for finding the redfish in their best actively feeding moods.”     Redfish are tough.   No question, we haven’t taken care of our resources. 

Flounder are also an option and have been caught with more regularity and they’re getting bigger.   The real trick has been to be in the deeper areas with decent current and baitfish.   The baitfish situation has been bizarre in 2011.   Areas that would normally have sardines and glass minnows all over the grassflats have little to none.    But if there is a presence of bait, expect there to also be some flounder laying in wait.   The 12 Fathom mullet bumped on the bottom is a fantastic Flounder pounder rig.

Pompano stole the show.   They showed up REALLY late this year.    I was frustrtated for three months.   It finally came through.   Started out with pompano the size we see in early spring.   The size rapidly increased.      Will the action last longer this Fall because they started so late?    The Uncle Neil teaser, always the key.   I have them if you want to try them.   $1 a teaser.   $.75 per teaser if you buy 100 at a time.   A good way to go if you want to buy bulk and split them with a fishing pal.  

Don’t let the heat keep you out of the action.    Go very early or try out the night fishing game.   Keep an eye to the sky for the storms but enjoy the cool evenings of summer and get a bend in your rod!

I’m sorry I can’t tell you everything is awesome.   It’s not.   But there are some good things.     We take it where we can get it anymore.  

Neil Taylor

“Instructional Kayak Fishing”

Strike Three Kayak Fishing

www.strikethreekayakfishing.com

(Cell) 727-692-6345

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