Despite the heat, fishing on the flats remains good and inshore anglers have a variety of opportunities. The key to success is focusing on the right species during the correct times and tidal phases.
Catch-and-release action for snook, which are not in season until September, has been best from early evening into morning. Live bait have worked especially well, but jigs and other artificial lures also have produced.
The strong low tides the past few days have been forcing flats species into potholes and channels on the flats. As long as the tide is going out, redfish, snook, trout and other species will take up temporary residence in these areas of slightly deeper water. If you find the right hole you should have constant action until the turn of the tide, when the fish will start pushing back into the shallow water. Look for a depression isolated on the flat. You probably will have to wade unless you have an extremely shallow drafting boat. The best spots will be surrounded by exposed grass tips during low tide.
Shark fishing also has been productive on the outsides of sandbars and barrier islands. Fresh cut bait or a large, struggling live offering should garner plenty of attention from large blacktip sharks regardless of time or tide.
- Capt. Pete Katsarelis charters out of Tarpon Springs and can be reached at 727 439-3474 or by e-mail at pkatsare@helios.acomp.usf.edu
