The return of the flounder: No question we wait for it every year. They leave our waters for a few months. They come back, sometimes in very early spring, sometimes closer to summer. This year, they came back in the middle of March but the bigger fish are just now arriving.
The big trout have been the best option the past week. We had days where there were dozens of 19 inch “plus” fish were caught. These are BIG fish and easy to catch. “If” you know where to go. The “where” is definitely interesting. We caught fish in locations I never really found them before.
Jake and his father enjoyed that action. The trip winding down Jake said “I would like to stay out a while longer” which to me is always fine but I told them that the bite may be winding down. Was I ever wrong. The bite caught fire and it was all big fish. One trout after another 19 to 21 inches long. The 12 Fathom SlamR was the best bet. In a great location for topwater lures, I couldn’t get anything to rise.
Mark from Virginia enjoyed some good action. Mark probably had a better bite overall than Jake and his father but Jake and his father got on a better feed with larger fish. Regardless, everyone enjoyed their fishing trips.
The wind continues to blow. It has been blowing since November. As I say, “It may never stop.” It is one of those things you just have to deal with. The fish don’t care. They will eat whether the wind is blowing or not. A shoulder injury from 1988, in December, those muscles went bad again. The decision once the busy season is over: Do I have something done about this shoulder. I still say I retore those muscles paddling in that November and early December wind.
This Saturday, the sixth annual Captain Mel Classic. As tournament director I can tell you: This one will be another success. Sponsor support is incredible. As usual, I am very pleased with the people who are participating in the event. It is only $30. If you have never fished in one of these events, this is a great one to start with.
Call to get on the schedule! The action’s great.
As always: Be careful out there!
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” ESPN Radio
Poachers are common thieves. See a poacher, report a poacher! If you suspect a wildlife or boating law violation, report it to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Reward Program: 888-404-FWCC (3922). Cell phone users can reach us at *FWC or #FWC, depending on your service provider. Most cell phones allow users to send text messages directly to an email address. You can text Tip@MyFWC.com ; standard usage fees may apply.
Supply as much detailed information such as the location of the offender, the boat description, number of people on board, clothing, vehicle information and give the dispatcher your phone number. Do this discreetly. You do not want to have direct contact with these people.
Capmel.com Radio, also known as Outdoor Fishing Adventures and Tampa Fishing Outfitters Radio Show is doing very well. As co-host, I am in the studio nearly every week and we have a great setup with topics and guests. Listen in on 1040 Sports Talk “The Team” 8 to 9AM on Sundays, live on the web or enjoy listening to the Podcasts at your leisure.
- The Neil Blog… - July 26, 2023
- The Catfish - July 26, 2023
- update - July 22, 2023
