Outdoors

Captain's Corner

What's hot: Redfish feeding activity surged recently in the Tampa Bay region, with many of the fish more than 30 inches. Early mornings have been best, particularly when the water level has been fairly high. Redfish have been in impressive sized schools, similar to what we would normally see in the fall. It has not been unusual to catch a dozen fish from a single location when they've settled in to feed.

By NEIL TAYLOR, Times Correspondent
Published June 6, 2007

What's hot: Redfish feeding activity surged recently in the Tampa Bay region, with many of the fish more than 30 inches. Early mornings have been best, particularly when the water level has been fairly high. Redfish have been in impressive sized schools, similar to what we would normally see in the fall. It has not been unusual to catch a dozen fish from a single location when they've settled in to feed.

Tactics and techniques: Since snook inhabit the same waters that hold redfish this time of year, use 25-pound fluorocarbon leader on medium heavy spinning outfits. Lighter leaders may break if a snook strikes instead of a redfish. Three- to 41/2-inch soft-plastic lures are a great lure selection for redfish. Make long casts and use a relatively slow retrieve speed.

Prospect shallow waters with grass bottom and patches of sand at the middle stages of the tides. Keep your eyes fixed on the water as you paddle or push-pole into an area. A kayak is a quiet and low-profile way to approach. Redfish are likely to spook from noises and vibrations. It's worth it to make the extra effort to minimize noises and to avoid heavily trafficked areas.

At the highest tides, try casting to oyster bars and mangrove-lined shorelines. In these areas, the fish will often tip off their location by spooking small baitfish as they are swimming through the area.

[Last modified June 5, 2007, 23:15:53]