Anglers along Florida’s Gulf Coast are enjoying a productive summer fishing season. Warm water temperatures and calm seas have created favorable conditions for various species.
Inshore:
- Tampa Bay/Sarasota Bay: Redfish are biting well around mangrove islands and oyster bars. Snook are active in the passes and along the beaches. Trout action is consistent on the flats, especially during early morning and late afternoon tides. Mangrove snapper are plentiful around bridges and docks.
- Cedar Key/Crystal River: Scallop season is in full swing, with good reports of limits being reached. Redfish, trout, and snook are also biting in the backwaters. Tarpon are still rolling in the channels, providing exciting opportunities for fly anglers.
- Panhandle: Nearshore reefs are holding good numbers of red snapper, gag grouper, and amberjack. Spanish mackerel and kingfish are patrolling the beaches, creating fast action for trollers and cast-netters.
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Offshore:
- Deepwater: The offshore bite remains strong, with reports of yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi being caught in deeper waters. Grouper fishing is also excellent, with gag, red, and scamp grouper being caught on bottom rigs.
- Nearshore Wrecks/Reefs: Mangrove snapper, lane snapper, and yellowtail snapper are abundant on the nearshore wrecks and reefs. Cobia are also being spotted around buoys and floating debris.
Bait & Tackle:
Live shrimp, pinfish, and greenbacks are the top choices for inshore anglers. For offshore, frozen sardines, squid, and ballyhoo are popular bait options. Artificial lures like jigs, spoons, and topwater plugs are also effective for a variety of species.
Tips:
- Early morning and late afternoon tend to be the most productive times for inshore fishing.
- Be sure to check the latest fishing regulations before heading out.
- Use caution when boating in shallow water and be aware of changing tides.
- Always wear a life jacket when fishing from a boat.
Tight lines!
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