Outdoors

Gulf and Bay: News and notes

By Rodney Page, Times Staff Writer
Published February 29, 2008

Fishing

Kayak series paddles into Clearwater

Kayak fishing has grown in popularity, so it was only a matter of time before a kayak fishing series emerged. Classic Tournaments Inc. has started the 2008 KayakSlam Series, and the third event of the West Central Florida Division will be held Saturday in Clearwater. Only fishermen with a paddle-powered craft can enter the events, which use a photo catch-and-release format. Anglers may only use artificial lures. The tournament species are redfish, trout and snook. The top 40 anglers from the West Central Florida and Southwest Florida divisions will be invited to the April 26-27 championship in Punta Gorda. The captains' meeting is 6:30 tonight at Joe Crab Shack in Clearwater. Scorecards and photos must be presented by 3:30 p.m. Saturday. For information, call (941) 637-5953 or go to www.kayakslam.com.

Redfish pros chase payday in Sarasota

The Forrest L. Wood Redfish Series Eastern Division will make its second stop of the season in Sarasota on March 13-15. Fishing will start from the Sarasota Cay Club (7150 N. Tamiami Trail) each day. Weigh-ins are at 3 p.m. As many as 125 anglers are expected to fish this event with a $50,000 first prize. For information, go to www.flwoutdoors.com.

Heralded snook season reopens

A reminder that snook season opens Saturday in gulf waters and remains open until May 1. The season had been closed from December through February. The regulations are one keeper snook per day, not less than 28 inches and not more than 33 inches long in the gulf. A snook must be between 28 and 32 inches in the Atlantic. A snook permit is required when a saltwater license is required. For a listing of saltwater fishing regulations, go to www.myfwc.com.

Check it out

A flea market for boating gear

If you're looking to sell your spare marine parts, or perhaps pick up a deal for your boat, check out the JSI marine flea market on Saturday, March 29. The flea market is located at 3000 Gandy Blvd. Sellers can rent a space for $15. The event is from 8 a.m.-noon. For information, go to www.newjsi.com or call (727) 577-3220.

[Last modified February 28, 2008, 19:42:57]