A favorable forecast should mean a steady rise in water temperatures and improved fishing conditions.
Redfish, which have been on the flats in decent numbers but have been sluggish feeders, are bound to be more active. Casting select shrimp while poling or wading on shallow flats will be most productive for larger reds. For more consistent action, fishing oyster bars and docks in local rivers and canal systems probably will yield greater numbers, though most will be undersized. You'll probably catch your fair share of sheepshead.
Snook season has been open for a couple of weeks. Though action has been limited, some nice fish were caught at night during the last patch of warm weather. You can expect more of the same by the middle of next week. As spring approaches, snook ease away from their winter haunts, taking time to stop and feed. These feeding stations are typically well-lit docks on the edge of deep water. Working dark-tinted jigs or casting live shrimp quietly to the edges of the light are the most effective methods.
Spring is bearing down on us and conditions are rapidly improving. Hopefully, within a month, the biggest problem will be deciding what species to catch next.
- 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
