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By DAVE WALKER
© St. Petersburg Times, published July 26, 2001
The oppressive heat and humidity have not slowed fishing in Old Tampa Bay, only anglers. Redfish have reappeared on the flats and are eager to eat. Larger snook are becoming harder to find, but smaller fish are extremely cooperative. Large tides have enabled anglers to fish the normally shallow parts of the bay most of the day.
Redfish have shown up in good numbers on the flats. Recent rainfall has cooled the water in these areas several degrees. This seems to keep the reds more active, even in the middle of the day. Gold spoons or live bait are working well. Reds are traveling with the mullet schools. If you do not see mullet where you are fishing, move on. Almost always, they will be found together.
Snook still are showing up in shallow water at all times of the day. They are a bit finicky, but persistent fishermen will be rewarded. The shallows adjacent to mangroves are a great place to look for these fish. Creek mouths and other areas that drain into the bay also are excellent places to seek the summer linesider.
Mangrove snappers are abundant around areas that have structure. Bridges, rock piles, artificial reefs and similar places will hold the snapper. They are tricky on the strike. Set on the first "tap." Extra bait is always useful when fishing for the mangs. Live bait is best, but small jigs also are a good choice. Small greenbacks and shrimp are the preferred live bait. Not only are the fish absolutely delicious, but they are feisty fighters.
- Dave Walker charters out of Tampa. Call (813) 831-0355.