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© St. Petersburg Times, published March 15, 2003
Ten days can make a huge difference in March diving conditions. The water from 35-135 feet went from filthy to crystal clear. While free-diving on the new south county reef just north of the permit barge in 45 feet we could see multiple big culvert piles from the surface. Bonita are buzzing by the thick bait around the tallest of about eight piles in two rows north and south of the mooring float. Floats like these are common in the Keys where they prevent anchor damage to the reef and anchor loss as well. Up to 10-pound gag grouper and mangrove snapper have taken up residence under the 4-foot culvert sections that comprise the reef.
Water temperature is 72 degrees and Clearwater reports have the same great shallow conditions. Get to those seldom-dived spots that are producing monster sheepshead, lots of medium-sized hogfish and grouper. In water deeper than 60 feet expect temperatures in the 60s.
Divers remember to be courteous to trolling or anchored fishermen by waiting your turn.
-- Capt. Chad Carney teaches scuba and spearfishing and charters out of St Petersburg. Call (727) 423-7775 or e-mail info@mobilescuba.com