Large afternoon high tides have allowed anglers in Tampa Bay to experience great snook fishing on the flats. They have been most cooperative during the last part of the incoming tide. Live greenbacks have been the bait of choice for the linesiders, though most traditional snook lures will produce as well. With more boat traffic on our waters, the fish are easier to spook. A stealth approach is absolutely necessary. Even a loud livewell pump can severely limit your chances, so think about how to soundproof your attack.

Spanish mackerel have invaded Tampa Bay and have been providing consistent action. In the past, my standard rig for macks was a foot-long, light gauged wire leader. Now long shank hooks are my favorite. Thirty-pound test leader material with a long hook works most of the time to prevent bite-offs. Occasionally, they will bite through the line, even the leader, quite easily. This is the reality of mackerel fishing.

You will need extra tackle. Free-lined shrimp, greenbacks, small pinfish and shiny lures will catch plenty of the macks. Fight them carefully with a loose drag to get more to the boat. Often they will foul hook themselves and their skin tears easily. Whether they are destined for the smoke house or to be released, the Spanish mackerel is an incredibly fun fish to catch.

-- Capt. Dave Walker charters out of Old Tampa Bay and can be reached at (813) 831-0355.

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