Anglers can expect pleasant conditions this weekend along the Gulf Coast with moderate temperatures and light winds. This should make for comfortable fishing both inshore and offshore.
Inshore:
- Tampa Bay: Redfish action is picking up around the Gulf beaches, Shell Key, and Egmont Key. Look for schools along mangrove shorelines and near oyster bars. Live bait like shrimp or pinfish will be your best bet. Trout fishing is also improving in Terra Ceia, the Bulkhead, and Joe Bay, with some under-slot snook mixed in.
- Sarasota Bay: Trout are biting well, although many are on the smaller side. Try using a popping cork with a 3-inch soft plastic like the Savage Gear Manic Shrimp. This rig is also attracting redfish, snook, jacks, bluefish, and ladyfish.
- Fort De Soto: Trout fishing is good, but many are undersized. Live shrimp or artificial lures that mimic baitfish will be effective.
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Offshore:
- Pinellas County: Anglers venturing beyond 100 feet are finding blackfin tuna, amberjack, dolphin (mahi-mahi), and the occasional wahoo around 125 feet of water southwest of Pinellas. Closer to shore, good numbers of triggerfish, porgies, and some hogfish are being caught, along with a variety of snapper. Live shrimp is the preferred bait for hogfish and snapper.
- General: Spanish mackerel are being spotted just off the beaches, but they’re moving quickly, so be ready to chase them. Keep an eye out for birds diving, as this is a good indicator of baitfish and mackerel activity.
Tips:
- Early mornings and late evenings will be the most productive times to fish this weekend.
- Pay attention to tides. Moving water is key for inshore fishing.
- Be prepared for changing conditions. Even with a good forecast, weather can change quickly on the water.
- Don’t forget your sunscreen and hat!
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Remember to check the latest FWC regulations and always practice catch and release whenever possible.
Tight lines!
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