Sometimes the early bird doesn't score. Sunday we had numerous shots at rolling Tarpon only to have them continue on their merry way with out a hit. Pass crabs, threadfins and white baits all great Tarpon candy but today none worked.
Next up St. Pete Beach for another Tarpon opportunity but we did not see one Silver King. Wanting to get on some action we set up on a near shore reef in 22'. A chum bag combined with some live chum baits fired up the shark action. Spinners 3-5' joined the party and quickly took to the air. Spanish Mackerel to 26" joined in but not in the quantity of the last few weeks. This action requires beefy leaders off 50 pounds or more finished with a 2/0 long shank hook.
Looking for dinner we ran to the grass flats of Ft. Desoto for trout. First white bait in resulted in a nice trout. Over the next 45 minutes the trout action was non stop! No large fish over 20" but big quantity of solid 17-19" trout.
Running in the dark before sunrise is common this time of year, be sure your navigation lights work. I saw several boats running in total darkness. Be safe or wait till you can be seen.
Captain Steven Markovich