The heat of summer is here.  The action in upper Tampa Bay is holding on but it is going to be getting increasingly difficult as this month goes on.   Afternoon rains are going to become a daily occurrence.   That may extend the bite in this part of the Bay.   It is hot.   Action is probably best in deeper water but if you go early, you may connect on some good fish.   Midday, it is just not going to happen.     The bridges are a better bet when the sun is up high.

A huge option:   The drum are generally the same size as last year:  40 to 70 pounds.  The Silly Willy- Uncle Neil teaser is all you need.   Food value: Zero.  The smaller drum are edible but  these bigger fish are a catch and release decision.    If you keep one to eat, you need to have a tough stomach.   The stench and the presence of masses of parasites in the meat, just let them go.

Trout action is just much better closer to the mouth of Tampa Bay.  It is pretty much over in the upper stretch of the Bay and won’t be a great option again until December.    say that trout are a better option “on the outside” rather that way up in the Bay, probably until November.

Tarpon have made it up the Bay but the biggest numbers will arrive in the next two weeks.

As always:    Keep an eye to the sky and be ready for fast forming storms to pop up starting this month.

Get out and enjoy the action in this part of our waters!  As always: Be careful out there!
The Kayak Fishing Academy, August 21st.    A crash course in fishing Tampa Bay.     Inquire for details.

Neil Taylor

Co-host: Capmel.com Radio, 8 to 9AM Sundays on 1040 “The Team”
www.strikethreekayakfishing.com
(Cell) 727-692-6345
LivelyBaits@aol.com

 

 

Neil Taylor
Latest posts by Neil Taylor (see all)

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR