Steven Markovich

Merry Christmas

Tampa Bay shined on inshore fishing charters the week prior to Christmas. Clients from cool and much colder climates were treated with sunny days with temperatures in the low 80's!

Gator Trout to 27.5" was last weeks highlight. These large trout have been hammering live greenbacks in less than 2' of water. We also landed a 25, 25.5 and 26.5" and lost several other gators. With early morning negative tides we could not even get in to fish for the Gator trout until late morning as the flats were bare of water. Unlike most trout Gator Trout will not be in big schools but primarily loners.

Grass flats 3-5' are holding tons of small sea trout. Drifting and casting DOA CAL jigs on 1/8 and ¼ oz jig heads is a winning combination. I also love casting the DOA deadly combo, be sure to allow the shrimp to drop to the bottom before popping the float. Almost all hits will come as the shrimp falls. Greenbacks or shrimp fly lined or under a cork are also options.

Greenbacks have been plentiful unlike last year. One or 2 tosses and the live well is loaded. These baits are like candy to snook and redfish in our local rivers. Chumming can fire up the action so the extra bait comes in handy and can make your day. Using a plastic baseball bat toss chum baits up current and watch then watch for snook to blow up on the freebies. Immediately cast into that area and hang on.

Redfish are also plentiful in the rivers just add a small weight to get your greenback or shrimp to the bottom. Periods of moving water is key and keep a keen eye for areas with deep undercuts.

Captain Steven Markovich

Fish Species: Trout Redfish Snook
Bait Used: Greenbacks DOA CALJigs
Tackle Used: Quantum Cabo Reels Maui Jim sunglasses Redbone Rods Woody Wax
Method Used:
Water Depth: 2-6'
Water Temperature: 68
Wind Direction:
Wind Speed: Light





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Steven Markovich

About The Author: Captain Steven Markovich

Company: On The mark Charters

Area Reporting: Tampa Bay

Bio: Capt. Steven Light tackle fishing at its finest. Tarpon, redfish, snook, cobia, trout and other exciting game fish. Day or Night join USCG licensed Capt. Steven of On The Mark charters for an incredible day on Tampa Bay. Beautiful scenery and wildlife, Dolphin, Manatees, Egrets and Ibis are just some of the wildlife you may see. Book a charter today!

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Click Here For Past Fishing Reports by Captain Steven Markovich