Tarpon Time!!!

Tarpon fishing has turned on along the north Pinellas coast. Fish are moving up from south Florida and out from the rivers to the mouth of Tampa Bay. The migrating silver kings continue their migration along the beaches, turning in and out of the passes with the tides to forage on bait and seeking protection from sharks in open waters. On calm mornings with light winds, it’s easy to spot tarpon rolling as they ingest air into their swim bladder. Often they are moving quickly in pods, ‘grey hounding’, as they move north or south. Those fish are hard to catch. Fish that are slowly rolling in a tight circle or ‘daisy chaining’ are easier to hook. They are apt to eat a sardine, threadfin, grunt or especially small crab placed in their path. Many anglers will choose a lane along the beach that the tarpon are likely to follow. Always give other boats a wide birth as you look for your own lane to work. Try moving quietly with a trolling motor to position your self in front of the fish. Lead them by several yards if possible. Tarpon will spook easily if baits are cast directly onto the school. Remember to use heavier gear when targeting tarpon. Although a long fight on light tackle is fun, it is harmful to the fish. A boat side picture with the fish in the water is less stressful to them and will aid in a quick recovery.
Snook are eating great through all parts of the tides, but outgoing has been best. Pigfish also call ‘grass grunts’ are getting crushed quickly. Sardines are working well too.
Redfishing is still steady as well. High tides along the bushes has been the method that has produced the most fish. Cut baits slung under the limbs will get picked up as long as you leave it in place. Be patient. They will find it.
Trout have been on the beaches. They are foraging all over the grass beds and even the sand, attacking schools of sardines and threadfins in the shallow waters near the shoreline.
Even though summer is approaching, there is usually a breeze to keep us cool. we can even jump in the water to cool off!!! Let’s get you out there for a special day on the water. Call me anytime at 727-365-7560 or e-mail me at brian@captbrian.com. I look forward to hearing from you. Let’s go fishing!

Capt. Brian