It’s warming up, but not fast enough to kill action up in the Bay.
Redfish remain the best target up the Bay much more than anywhere else. The baitfish surge made it most of the way up the Bay even though the much bigger concentrations remain on the coast or at the mouth of Tampa Bay. The 12 Fathom Mullet is my favorite bait. On a 1/8-ounce jighead, deadly when moved the right speed. The second place choice is the Buzz Tail Shad.
Trout action is still pretty good but only in specific locations. The jigs continue to work the best but topwater action should be about to explode. The SlamR continues to be the best finesse bait for big trout but with the return of baitfish they will readily slam the Mullet as well. Don’t ignore the topwater opportunities.
Big black drum are about to load up on the bridge pilings. Pompano will not be far behind. With the work of the FWC and targeting poachers, this year should be considerably better than the last.
The rainy season is coming up fast. I like the rain. I grew up in the desert. Hopefully the red tide that is lingering does not end up being fueled by our upcoming rains. It is “out front” and the upper Bay is safe for now but it is a significant bloom and the hopes are that it stays out of the Bay.
Get out and enjoy the action in this part of our waters! As always: Be careful out there!
Neil Taylor
www.strikethreekayakfishing.com
(Cell) 727-692-6345
LivelyBaits@aol.com
- The Neil Blog… - July 26, 2023
- The Catfish - July 26, 2023
- update - July 22, 2023
