Steven Markovich

You have to be very optimistic with large schools of redfish on local flats combined with light winds and a good tide. I met my anglers Rick, Kathy and Min and headed to the deep grass flats off Tierra Verde. Action was quick with ladyfish and trout chasing small threadfins. Rick's rod bent strongly and it was clear he was into a nice redfish except it was a gator trout. I was amazed when I saw it was 28-30" long. I was trying to get the trout on the boca grip and on my 3rd attempt the hook pulled. My heart sank as I wanted my angler to have a photo of this trophy fish. We could have easily netted the trout but did not want to harm the big female.

Next Kathy had a fish pulling drag and going from one side of the boat to the other. I was sure she had a Bonnet Head shark but I was amazed to see it was a jumbo ladyfish. The beast had to be 5 pounds. With the tide rising it was time to catch some large redfish.

I was anxious to get my anglers on these red bruisers weighing 10-15 pounds. Viewing conditions were good but sadly we did not see any signs of the big reds. My anglers were very patient as we inched our way for several miles on the trolling. Rick and Kathy are new to the area so I wanted to show off another great area so we made the trek to Bishops Harbor.

Bishops Harbor is ideal for snook redfish and trout. The area proved disappointing as all we managed was snapper and catfish. We did have some snook big blow up on chum baits but wont touch one with a circle hook in it.

I really wanted to get my anglers on the redfish so we headed back only to run into a storm. Lightning was getting close so we called it a day. Hind sight is 20/20 what's the saying never leave fish to catch fish. We could have caught Trout Ladyfish Sharks all day on the deeper flats.

Captain Steven Markovich

Fish Species: Redfish Snook Trout
Bait Used: White Bait
Tackle Used: Quantum Cabo Reels Maui Jim Sunglasses Redbone Rods
Method Used:
Water Depth: 3-7'
Water Temperature: 80.8
Wind Direction: SW
Wind Speed: Kight



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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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