Captain’s Corner: Tyson Wallerstein

The Tampa Bay Times

It’s been nearly two weeks since the Christmas cold front that all but shut down any chance of catching fish, at least inshore. And although we’ve had some unseasonably warm days recently, things just haven’t gotten going the way we all would like.  

Redfish numbers are improving in Tampa Bay. Although we aren’t seeing the numbers of fish were used to however, they are much more available now than they’ve been since hurricane Ian slowed things down back in in September.  

Windless low tide days have been occurring rather frequently the past couple of weeks. These conditions offer shallow water anglers sight casting opportunities for tailing redfish.  Super shallow draft skiffs or wade fishing are the best ways to approach the often-spooky redfish. Flies, small soft plastic crabs and weedless jerk-baits along with live freelined shrimp are all good options to cast when stalking tailers.  

Trout fishing remains slow for much of the region. Creeks and deeper canals are a great place to look for trout in Tampa Bay. Schools of ladyfish will often seek out the same environment as the trout and will typically keep you busy catching fish when other fishing is slow. Soft-plastic jigs that have a lot of erratic action seem to work best for both species with white being the best overall color.  

Drum, sheepshead, and a few redfish are all targetable along the expansive residential dock systems in the lower bay. Live shrimp with a small number four split shot pitched around and under especially the deep docks will produce action when it’s too breezy to comfortably fish more open water spots.  
Capt. Tyson WallersteinFlats Monster Inshore Fishing
(727) 692-5868
capt.tyson@hotmail.com
www.Flatsmonster.com