Anglers are patiently waiting for calmer seas to come to our offshore areas. The fishing and spearfishing is improving as the water warms and last week's visibility was as good as it has been all winter.
The largest artificial wreck to be sunk in the country was awarded to the Pensacola area this week. The 888-foot aircraft carrier Oriskany was given to the area by the federal government. It will be sunk for fishing and diving in 210 feet.
A few dedicated local groups are working hard with some Tampa Bay governments to help generate interest and funds to enhance our offshore artificial reef/wreck system. The Pinellas County Artificial Reef Program is at the forefront in these efforts. Over the past 10 years they have made large strides in improving fishing and diving areas in the gulf.
If you'd like to help generate more good fishing and dive spots, join one of these groups of volunteers. To find out more or to help out one of these groups, you can email: ihearyou@tampabay.rr.com There is an artificial reef summit next week in Sarasota and many of these local volunteers are planning to attend.
- Bill Hardman teaches scuba, spearfishing and freediving through Aquatic Obsessions Scuba in St. Petersburg. Call (727) 344-3483.
