It bears repeating because it is that important: Catch a legal snook: Let it go. Let’s rebuild this trophy fishery. The south shore is a perfect example: We have plenty of fish to eat. Leave the snook, take something else.
Flounder action just never took off in 2017. Will they move in late? Is it just an off year?

Redfish activity has been great but those fish MOVE. 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. A client caught five one day. Another day, seven caught by the client. That’s not bad.

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. We hammered big trout on topwater lures last week.

Pompano: Definitely an option. The piers and bridges (see below) you can score if you know where to go and how to do it. The Silly Willy/Pink teaser combination is tough to beat. Want to “do it my way” ? I’ll sell you teasers if you need them. Yellow with the jig and pink with the teaser is a winner.

Mangrove snapper are also a great target around the greater Skyway region. It has been a spectacular snapper year and they are still here.
Want to know what’s going on off the Skyway piers? To get detailed reports, check The Skyway Report on capmel.com. Written by Paul Bristow every week, he keeps you on the heartbeat of the Skyway bite. Get out and enjoy the easy action on the Skyway Piers!

*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

Neil Taylor
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