In light of today’s economic and political climate you had better fish while you are still allowed to. You may ask, “What do you mean while I’m allowed to.” There are rumblings to shut down bottom fish along the Atlantic Seaboard, and the Gulf of Mexico. If you think I’m kidding check out this website www.thefra.org. As it stands now, no red snapper, no greater amberjack, and the possibility of no grouper or permit. If you’re reading this column you must like to fish or know someone who does. Please check out this website and educate yourself and make your own decisions.
The off shore bite continues to be on fire with plenty of nice grouper coming over the rails with most catches coming in from twenty to fifty feet of water. Near shore wrecks and reels are still holding great numbers of King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Amberjack both Greater and Lesser. One thing this time of year if you are out off shore and the wind suddenly shifts to the North West you may want to start heading in as it’s a sure sign of a cold front and the conditions are sure to deteriorate and usually pretty darn quick.
On the inshore scene white baits are still plentiful which is as you all know the bait of choice. We are catching good numbers of snook in the rivers and canals along with some of the biggest trout that I’ve seen on Tampa Bay since the Red Tide we had a few years ago that just decimated the trout population. The trout numbers are high as well. Just remember that trout is closed in the Southern Region and doesn’t open until January. Also there are still large schools of Spanish and Bonita or Little Tuny in the bay as well. These fish, the Bonita are great for old and young alike as they are a member of the Tuna family and fight like them as well just a strong fish that is a blast on light tackle or fly.
Be sure to visit our website www.reelanimalsfishingshow.com or call 866-GAMEFISH to book your trip today or to purchase a gift certificate for that special someone for Christmas. Also check us out on Saturday’s at 6:30 am and Sunday’s at 11:00 am on WFLA News Channel 8 for our TV show and call in Sunday’s from 7-9am on 620 WDAE for our weekly radio show for a chance to win some cool fish gear and vacation stays at some local resorts. Until next time, “Do yourself a favor and take a kid fishin’.”
