Over the past few months, there has been a media outburst about the devastating "red tide" in the southwest region of FL. Although whats going on in that region is horrible, The Tampa Bay region and the Bay itself is untouched by this red tide so far. The fishery is still in excellent condition, with sea life and wildlife flourishing throughout the area. The bite has been really good for the month of August considering its typically the hottest month of the year. We've been receiving a lot of questions from clients about the red tide, concerned about going fishing or vacationing to the Tampa Bay area. Captains For Clean Water is all over this topic and you can help support this issue. Heres a link that will explain all the real issues down south and whats amplifying the normal red tides of summer. Again, not effecting the Bay Area though!
Update on current fishing report. As said previously, the month of August has been productive in Tampa Bay, producing some quality trips with 30+ fish throughout the charter. Catches include Redfish, Snook, Trout, Mangrove Snapper (really hot), Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Jacks and occasional Cobia.
Redfish have been starting to move in, showing decent numbers and should only get better going into the fall months as it cools a little. Cut bait has been the desired bait with the reds as the water temps are in the high 80's - low 90's in some areas; these fish get a little lazy and are looking for that easy meal. Snook have been great! We are finding the incoming tide is producing the best bite as of late for the snook ranging in sizes of 20"- 28". The breeders (bigger snook) are on the move coming from their breeding locations on the beaches and are similar with the redfish on the cut bait for selected bait. Trout have been best on both incoming and outgoing, as long as you have a good moving tide, find a healthy grass flat in depths ranging from 3ft-5ft and look for the cleanest water you can find. Snapper have been heavily all over the bay ranging from 10" to 17" mostly; best bite for us has been on the end of the tides as the water flow starts to slow and allows those fish to move off the typical structure they are staging up on. Great for the table and fun on light tackle! Spanish Macks are starting to thin out a bit but are still roaming about. Bluefish and Jacks having been a by catch as of late, but make for a great fight for our clients. Cobia have been spotted on towers, as well as following big Rays or Manatees on the flats.
So seeing all the news and red tide issues shouldn't discourage you from committing to your planned fishing trips or vacations here. Plenty of water to enjoy and get in your Florida living fix!