Having a hard time catching redfish and trout in lower Tampa Bay? You're not alone. Areas that held schools of fish last year are empty because the bait run never got up on the flats. When the bait schools are thick, the reds and trout stay in the same area until the bait runs out. If there is little bait to feed on, the schools keep moving. The areas that hold fish are seeing an increase in anglers. This spooks the fish and makes them hard to catch. When we find the flats in these conditions, it's time to fish the pods of juvenile bait that line the deeper edges of the flats. Flies or small jigs work great when fished with a fast retrieve. Most of the action will consist of mackerel, jack, trout and ladyfish. This may not sound exciting, but it beats fishing all morning for a skunk.

The best action has been at night. Snook are feeding on shrimp free-lined in the shadows of the bridge lights. Fish the bridges that are close to the beach. Big trout are hanging in the same area. The big boys were caught on flies that imitate shrimp. The trick to getting the big trout to strike was working the dark areas outside of the light. They would not be fooled into striking if the fly were stripped through the light. Most trout get big because they are smart. If you want to fool them, keep your rig in the dark.

Look for the action to pick up around September. This is when the days start getting shorter and the beach fish return to the flats.

- Doug Hemmer charters out of St. Petersburg. Call (727) 347-1389.

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