A few weeks ago the new hatch of scaled sardines produced tiny and barely usable bait. The sardines have grown quickly to a more favorable size and are available just about everywhere.
A standard "bait" cast net usually works. The smaller baits are big enough to keep from wrecking your net. Gilled threadfins or greenbacks can be a nightmare, but those days over.
There are many concoctions and potions commonly used to attract bait. Some are simple and some are smelly. For those of us who have not fully developed an affinity for the scent of menhaden oil, there are many other options that are as effective and more user friendly. A few cans of jack mackerel and a bag of corn meal can be mixed with a little water to produce a viable attractant. Flip small amounts of chum out until you see flashes or the actual school. This can take several minutes. Keep chumming the same spot to concentrate the baitfish.
This is when a good spread of the net is critical. A "banana" or something shaped like the state of Florida is at the least frustrating. There are many different instructional videos and live demonstrations that can help anglers become more proficient at casting a net.
Redfish are active in upper Tampa Bay. Large high tides next week should provide anglers ideal conditions. Look for large schools of mullet close to the shoreline. This can increase red potential. Gold spoons fished slowly or live bait are proven ways to score. Greenbacks, shrimp or pinfish under a float can be deadly. Avoid all deck noise. One good thump on the bottom of the boat can send redfish heading for the hills, but recently an airboat noisily passed close by and the reds continued to bite much to everyone's surprise.
Tarpon to 50 pounds are thick under the main span of the causeway. Free line large greenbacks toward the fenders. These fish offer a great battle.
- Dave Walker charters out of Tampa. Call 813 310-6531 or e-mail at www.snookfish.com
