The Tampa Bay Times
An increase in baitfish has filled the bill to finally lure redfish, trout, and snook into the shallows where they can be caught a little more easily. When fly fishermen exchange information the definitive question always seems to be, “What fly were you using?” When conditions are favorable for a good bite, several successful fishermen will usually be using different fly patterns. Have you ever had someone who has fly fishing savvy pick up your rod after you have not caught anything and begin to catch fish immediately? I’ve even exchanged rods with someone having a bad day and caught fish with their setup while they continued to not catch with the rod I was using with success. The fly is usually the least important part of the equation. On several recent river trips, snook were hanging very close to or under shoreline structure such as docks, mangroves, fallen trees, oyster bars, and points. If the fly was not presented within inches of the structure, fish weren’t caught. If a cast was close to a fish’s lair and it landed with a disturbing splash or was picked up too suddenly with a surface rip the fish not only ignored the fly but could be seen racing to deeper water for safety. Casting accuracy, proper presentation, and minimal disruption will vastly improve your success with the long rod.
Fly fisherman and casting instructor Pat Damico charters Fly Guy in lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpatdamico.com and 727-504-8649.
- Capiains Corner. Damico - December 26, 2023
- Pat Damico - December 21, 2023
- CaptainsCorner: Pat Damico - November 27, 2023
