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Daily fishing report

© St. Petersburg Times,
published October 7, 2001

With October's changing weather conditions, fishing is often like chess. More than any other time of the year I study weather patterns, moon phases, solar and tide tables daily.

The forecast calls for a weak cold front to pass through our area today. Fish early this morning. Later, the wind will increase out of the southwest 10-15 knots, according to the NOAA weather service (813-645-2506).

After studying the Times Tide Chart, which I clip every Friday and reference all week long, I notice there's an outgoing tide. Solar tables indicate a minor feeding time at 9:40 a.m., which is right around the tide change. Minor feed times usually last around 45 minutes to 11/2 hours. A changing barometer can have an impact.

Fishing location dictates strategy. In Tampa Bay, I start in the north and work southward with the falling tide. This way, you can work the strongest outgoing tidal flow all morning.

This technique has been successful the past few days with catches of snook, redfish and trout. Concentrate on creeks, cuts, oyster beds and edges of grass flats. When the fishing slows, I follow the compass south to the next hot spot. You've got to think ahead for a checkmate.

-- Wade Osborne operates Afishionado Guide Services out of Tampa. Call (888) 402-3474 or e-mail wade@wadefish.com.

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