http://www.tampabay.com/sports/outdoors/captains-corner-weak-tides-presenting-challenge-to-early-morning-anglers/2328652
If early morning trips have not been productive, weak tides may be the reason. After checking weather, head out to some of your usually productive shallow water locations. One close to an inshore bridge, with improved tidal flow, would be a good choice. The absence of normal-sized baitfish that help concentrate predators may have trout, pompano, redfish and other shallow water fish scattered. Have an 8-weight fly rod rigged with a floating line and a popper that imitates a baitfish. White is the best choice, switching to darker colors in low light. Make sure your tapered leader does not have fluorocarbon components as this will sink and pull the floating popper’s nose under the surface, causing it to not work properly as well as making casting more difficult. The noise of the popper disturbing the surface will attract gamefish similar to a popping cork used by bait fishermen. Don’t let it sit too long. This will make it seem like it is trying to escape from the large fish. Put an artificial eye on the side that floats instead of on each side of the head. This more clearly represents a struggling baitfish lying on its side.
Fly fisherman Pat Damico charters lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpat.com or (727) 504-8649.
- Capiains Corner. Damico - December 26, 2023
- Pat Damico - December 21, 2023
- CaptainsCorner: Pat Damico - November 27, 2023
