Outdoors

Captain's Corner

By TROY P. SAPP, Times Correspondent
Published January 22, 2008

What's hot: The power plants have been steady producers on the coldest days. Jigs and live shrimp have been the baits of choice and have rewarded anglers with catches of trout, redfish and jacks, along with pompano and permit. The main discharge canals can get crowded at times, but the adjacent flats that are influenced by the warm-water plume can be productive as well and are usually less congested.

The days after the frontal passages that come with light winds and warming temperatures provide some of the best opportunities of the year for sight-fishing tailing redfish. Upper Tampa Bay and areas around Fort De Soto that have shallow flats are prime for tailing reds on the beginning of the incoming tides. These fish are extremely spooky, and using a push pole or operating a trolling motor on its slowest setting is a must.

Tips: Targeting tailing redfish in shallow water requires the use of light leaders and baits that make a very subtle presentation. Jerk shads with no weight are a good choice, as well as a free-lined shrimp. Fly fishermen will do well using crab and shrimp imitations along with long leaders to prevent spooking the fish with the fly line.

Capt. Troy P. Sapp with Fins and Tails Guide Service can be reached at (813) 920-6928.

[Last modified January 21, 2008, 23:23:34]