Fishing Report – July 20th, 2024

Here is the July 20th, 2024 fishing report. My reports are published in the Tampa Bay Times every 4th and 20th of the month! Thank you for reading, and I look forward to getting you all out on the water soon! Capt. Brian.

The summer heat has definitely affected the fishing in the north Pinellas region. However, afternoon rainstorms are helping to cool things down after the morning and midday sun heats the water to near 90° each day.

On some recent trips, I have been able to scoot offshore between 5 and 7 miles to enjoy bottom fishing for several species that are cooperating. Herds of gag and red grouper in the 25 to 35 feet depths are eating everything from squid, cut sardines, shrimp and small pinfish.  Of course they are mostly short, but great action for anyone who likes to reel in a fish. There is a variety to be caught along with grouper, including mangrove snapper, sea bass, grunts, and even flounder.

If the winds and storms won’t allow for those offshore days, snook action has been pretty good lately. Schools of snook are roaming the barrier islands from Caladesi to Anclote Island in Tarpon Springs. I will often find the majority of snook in troughs that contain grass patches, flat rocks, or mangroves that are touching the water along shore. All of this structure will provide snook with some protection and camouflage to ambush food and hide from sharks and dolphins. The passes are also holding a good number of snook along with spotted sea trout.

Most of my success in recent weeks has definitely been before 11 AM or so. Once the midday heat sets in the fish become lethargic.

If you are interested in booking Clearwater Fishing Charters, please contact us today. As the leading Clearwater Charter Fishing Company with over 35 years experience, we will insure you have a great day of fishing!