The Redfish action continues to be strong with slot to oversized fish being caught around the Tampa Bay area. They are being caught on everything from top water lures, jigs, spoons, live bait and cut bait.
If you can get upwind from them and drift in and set up this will leave them comfortable and willing to feed. With the wind at your back you will be able to make longer casts so that you can stay further away from the fish and catch more of them.
All of the baits mentioned will catch redfish but cut bait has been the ticket lately but don't be afraid to mix it up, it can result in a higher catch amount.
Cut baits can range from pinfish and scaled sardines to ladyfish and mullet but don't count out a live pinfish or live scaled sardine under a cork it can be deadly.
When using cut bait on the bottom I try to use no weight if the area will allow this. I like for the redfish to be able to pick up the bait and not have anything dragging on the line. Be patient with the hit, let them really get a hold of the bait before you try to get hooked up. The rod holder works great for this type of fishing. Remember this is cut bait let it sit and they will find it by keying in on the scent.
If your using a live bait under a cork set the depth so that the bait is just above the grass as to make the bait try to get to the grass for cover but it cant reach it, which will make the bait very active causing the redfish to be attracted to it.
Areas that are holding redfish are Weedon Island, Tierra Verde, Fort Desoto and the South shore to name a few. Look for oyster bars, spoil islands and grassy areas with many sand holes.
Becca cant stop smiling
Tom and Harvey with a sweet double
Tarpon are also in full swing on the beaches and along the Skyway and Gandy bridges. Live baits of choice are crabs, threadfin herring and pinfish. Cut baits on the bottom that are good would be shad, threadfin herring, mullet and ladyfish.
If you are fishing the beaches or an outgoing tide crab flush be courteous to your fellow anglers and if someone is hooked up give them the right of way. If you get hooked up try to get on top of your fish as soon as possible not to have to much line out through a weave of boats.
