Flounder action got better. Finally. South shore is the best place to find them. Bump lures down deep on sand patches and you’ve got them. The 12 Fathom SlamR is the best choice but nearly anything will work.
Redfish activity has been back and forth. One day to the next, a mystery. They do not hold in a pattern so be ready to be in search mode. But the numbers are there and they are nice fish. Redfish are closed for the first time in decades. The state is going to need some help. Because they don’t know what they are doing.
Speckled trout is OK but not what it is going to be sometime in October to early November. I’m not saying there are no opportunities but it just isn’t “out of summer” quite yet when it comes to this species. I would strongly suggest topwater lures. After the sun has been up a while, go to deeper grass and switch to the jig.
Pompano: Definitely an option. The Silly Willy/Pink teaser combination is tough to beat. Want to “do it my way” ? I sell the teasers if you don’t have any. Yellow with the jig and pink with the teaser is a winner. This should last one more month. And they are huge. These pompano are often over 16 inches.
Mangrove snapper are also a great target around the greater Skyway region. It has been a spectacular snapper year and they are still here.
I regret that with the passing of Paul Bristow, the Skyway report is no longer current.
*The lower Bay just continues to be great opportunities. Again, in a battle that is never really over: The great work of FWC officers to target felony netters and keep an eye on other recreational offenders has led to better fishing for us all. Their continued efforts to catch felony netters are making the south shore region return as a great fishery again. But help them out: Keep your eyes peeled for illegal activity and make a call if you see poaching, 888-404-FWCC (3922). Your tips will help make cases and you could be eligible for a reward.
As always: Be careful out there!
Neil Taylor
Owner and guide: www.strikethreekayakfishing.com
(Cell) 727-692-6345 LivelyBaits@aol.com
Owner and site administrator: www.capmel.com
- The Neil Blog… - July 26, 2023
- The Catfish - July 26, 2023
- update - July 22, 2023
