Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier and Bridge. Bean Point's deeper waters are an excellent area for a variety of species including pompano, Spanish mackerel, shad, ladybug and more. Anglers can launch schools of fish that break on the surface, as well as drift around the area while bouncing jigs off the bottom. The floors inside and the sound of Anna Maria contain speckled trout, snook and redfish.
The Manatee River offers excellent fishing from the mouth of Tampa Bay on Snead Island to the dam on Lake Manatee. DeSoto National Memorial Park, on the Bradenton side, offers access for anglers who wade and use kayaks and canoes. Wide, shallow planes are excellent for chasing redfish and snook. Located south of Plant City, the 700-acre reservoir at Edward Medard Conservation Park is a perfect place to cast your line and anticipate a fish nibbling on the hook.
The huge reservoir is also used for canoeing and sailing, with tons of wildlife watching. While many locals head to Fort Desoto for its exceptional beaches, bike trails, and historic forts, they also have great fishing spots. Fort Desoto has two fishing docks to launch your fishing line. A bit of a hidden gem, but worth finding, Bishops Harbor Road is convenient access for fishing at Terra Ceia Preserve State Park.
More than just a relaxing spot, Egmont Key is an ideal spot to fish for trout, snook, grouper and snapper. Grouper is the number one catch within Tampa Bay's Egmont Shipping Channel, but if you make it this far, you can find real mackerel (during the spring and fall races) and the rare but occasional blue water fish, the bonito. If you're really looking for a thrill, this area also offers incredible shark fishing. Just make sure you take all safety precautions, as you should on any fishing adventure.
We've probably all heard of the Sunshine Skyway that runs through Florida, the fishing pier that runs right next to the bridge. The bridge crosses Tampa and connects St. The new bridge was opened and the old one became one of the largest fishing docks in the country. The dock allows people to carry their cars in it so that they can fish comfortably.
It also allows access to deep water so you can get the best fish possible. It's open 24 hours a day and has lights so you can catch some species of fish and have a super fun night. This lake is a 2,544 acre lake that is part of the fish management program in Florida. It's managed by Pinellas County and is one of the best bass fishing lakes if you're looking for quiet, yet fruitful Tampa Bay fishing spots.
There is such a wide variety of fish here that you can really get the biggest ones like monster fish, shark, king mackerel, etc. This area is rich in bass, has a low fishing pressure and offers fishing on the docks around the lake, as well as on the coast and in small boats. With more than 200 species inhabiting its bait-laden canals, Tampa Bay is revered as the jewel in the crown among Florida anglers. Being the largest open water estuary in the entire Sunshine State definitely has its advantages.
No wonder, Tampa Bay fishing is excellent. Spanning more than 400 square miles and fueled by the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa Bay's massive ecosystem is home to nearly every favorite thug in the state. If you swim in shallow water and live in the Gulf, you can guarantee that you are in these waters. The bay offers such a wide variety of aquatic life that it is not uncommon to group several species together on an excursion.
Most anglers look for the “big 3”: shad, redfish and snook. The traditional shad season runs from April to August, but you can find an excellent bite as early as March. In a particularly good year, the season can last 7-8 months, which is always a welcome advantage. Still, the bay is famous for its heavy summer shad fishing.
From late May to July, there's a shad show everywhere you go. During the peak of their migration (May to July), most tarps weigh between 80 and 140 pounds. If you're looking for the ultimate fishing experience, there are 200-pound beasts swimming around the bay in summer. Undoubtedly a skinny water favorite, the resident Redfish is happy to chase a plug any day of the year.
With unparalleled strength and reel smoking tenacity, Redfish is without a doubt the king of Tampa Bay floors. Most reds caught in the Tampa Bay area measure around 15 to 35 inches (legal size limit varies) and the season is open year-round. For most of the year, this species is caught in very shallow grass areas, up to 3 feet deep. Even though most fish go into deep hibernation during the winter months, Tampa Bay tailed reds remain very active.
That said, they usually migrate to deeper water at this time, usually between 4 and 8 feet. Another of Florida's most important game fish, this cross-country fighter thrives in virtually every part of the bay. The elusive Snook is caught anywhere from beaches to docks, mangroves, jetties and seawalls. It's safe to say that it's exceptionally flexible in finding a nutritious habitat.
Although available year-round, spring, summer, and fall give anglers the best chance to limit themselves to Snook. While you'll still be shot at from time to time, winter is usually best chased after other species. For Snook enthusiasts who prefer to avoid the summer heat, night fishing is a highly productive alternative. Snooks are night feeders and are very active under cover of darkness.
You'll usually find them looking for dinner under the dock lights. To make the most of snook fishing in Tampa Bay, head to beaches, residential docks and mangrove shorelines for a successful day on the water. It's no secret that the “Big 3” attract the most attention of visiting anglers eager to explore Tampa Bay's coastal fisheries. Still, there are plenty of other game fish that melt lines rummaging in the bay.
First on the list, Spotted Seatrout is probably the most abundant sports fish in all of Tampa Bay. Like the redfish, trout is excellent for eating and can be found rummaging in the shallow plains all year round. They also like to go deeper water (up to 15 feet) during the colder months. Sheepshead, another winter thug, is better to target from January to March.
They can be found under bridges, docks and reefs near the coast. With a range of 1 to 5 pounds, what they lack in size they more than make up for being positively delicious. The party doesn't stop when you leave the bay. You'll find a wide variety of species in its waters close to the coast, each one more fun to catch than the last.
Each year, the bait-rich Gulf waterways attract an extensive list of pelagic and other predatory fish. Surface feeders such as King Mackerel, Barracuda, Permit and Mahi Mahi thrive during the summer months. Finally, we can't talk about fishing in Tampa Bay without mentioning the spectacular shark action. Bull, Hammerhead, Blacktip, Tiger and several other shark species dominate local waterways.
Although this is primarily light tackle fishing, there are many other fishing styles to explore in the Tampa Bay Area. If this is your first time, consider hiring a professional to give you clues and reveal some of the best tips and tricks. If you prefer to fish from land, then you'll have plenty to do in Tampa Bay. The area is full of bridges, docks and beaches that are perfect for fishing.
The waters of the bay are full of beautiful fish and even if you don't have a boat, you can have a great time. If you're a solo fly fisherman, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the number of incredible fly fishing opportunities in the bay. One of the most popular spots for shore anglers should be the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which separates the Bay from the Gulf. Here you can target just about anything from snook and pompano to grouper and king mackerel.
You can also launch a line at Bishop Harbor for a bite of prime redfish and trout. If you like surf fishing, head to Clearwater Beach. But it's not all about saltwater fishing in Tampa Bay. Places such as Lake Tarpon and Edward Medard Reservoir are known for their solid bass fishing, especially in summer.
This is by far the most convenient and comfortable option for anglers who want to make the most of their time on the water. Whatever type of trip, technique and species of fish you're looking for, there will be someone in Tampa Bay to take you for a ride. Even if you're in the mood to chase monsters on the high seas, you can book a deep sea fishing trip and go find your next trophy. If you go after a specific species, there are many captains who make specialized trips.
Basically, you're covered on all bases. Remember that some fish in the bay have very strict seasons, so it's best to check in with your guide and find out what you can aim for during your trip. That way, you'll know what to expect and prepare accordingly. Kayak fishing in Tampa Bay is a big deal, and it's easy to understand why.
Here, you can find grassy plains, rich backwaters, and calm waters close to the coast, all in one place, what's not to like? Kayakers can go through the thickets of mangroves and cross the thinnest waters in search of impressive fish. Coastal favorites like speckled trout, snook, redfish, Jack Crevalle and even shad are always on the cards. If the weather helps you and you are an experienced kayaker, you can venture further into the bay. There, you can launch your line for superstars like King Mackerel, Cobia, Snapper, and Grouper.
Wherever there is public access to the water, you can drop your kayak and start paddling to your next big catch. Before casting your fishing line in the bountiful Tampa Bay, it's important to familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations. Many species have a specific seasonality (especially red snapper and shad), so make sure you're informed and plan your trip accordingly. For more information on Florida fishing licenses, see this Florida fishing license publication.
When it comes to fishing in Tampa Bay, if you can dream it, you can catch it. This is the ultimate playground for many coveted fish species, as well as anglers eager to catch them. Top it off with some of the most magnificent sunrises and sunsets on Florida's West Coast, and you'll have a unique fishing experience, without exception. Notify me of new posts by email.
If you prefer to pair up with a charter captain, you can try to find one in Clearwater. As for Bradenton Beach, it's a great place to enjoy fishing with your kids. You can easily access Palma Sola Bay via Manatee Ave. If temperatures reach 90ºF during the day, it's best to head to the southwest section of the bay, where you can find some shade between the mangroves and deeper holes where redfish and snook sometimes hide.
Keep in mind that fish can be slow if it's very hot, in which case, it's a good idea to go into the water at first light and fish for speckled trout in high water. Be sure to check the weather forecast to know what you're up against. If you bring kayaks, there is a boat in the Robinson Reserve, it is beautiful there and will connect you directly to the bay of Palma Sola. As for Cortez fishing spots, the Cortez Road Bridge and Bridge Street Pier are a local favorite.
There's a wider variety of species you can hook here, including Sheepshead, Redfish, Flounder, Pompano and Snook. You also have restaurants that can prepare your catch for your family, and if you need anything, there are shops nearby. You can also launch a line for redfish, snook and trout on the grass plains under the Cortez Bridge, on the Cortez side. My mother and I are going to go near Tampa in crystal clear waters.
When I go we rent a house on a canal that leads to the ocean. What good fish are there in these types of channels and what rod and bait should I use? There are plenty of great fish swimming around the canals in Clearwater, including snook, redfish, spotted sea trout, saltwater catfish, maybe even shad, depending on where exactly you are. Still, the most popular catches here are Snook, and they come in several sizes. For this endeavor, many anglers choose spinning tackle because they are versatile and easy to use.
If you just want a rod for both of you I would go with a 7′ medium light swivel rod. It will be a good all-rounder wherever you are fishing, although it will lack the power needed to attract larger fish such as shad and sharks. If you need help finding a Tampa fishing charter, don't hesitate to contact our customer service team. Do you mean a charter service that will pick you up? There are definitely some who pick up customers in Orlando for fishing on the East Coast, so there may be something similar based in Tampa.
I recommend that you contact our Customer Service team. Hopefully, they can connect you with a captain who offers pickup. The best way to start is to date an experienced fishing guide. Luckily, there's no shortage of expert captains in the Tampa Bay area.
The main summer shad season is from May to July, and most migratory shad will leave in the coming weeks. However, there is always a “withheld” shad that spends the winter in the area. However, it will be difficult for you to catch Tarpon from the coast. Fish are big, spooky and a challenge to hook them at best, so getting close before making a pitch is key.
For example, Lake Tarpon is only half an hour away, and is one of the best bass fishing lakes in Florida. You'll also have a good chance of getting Bluegill and Crappie. Thank you, do you suggest fishing near boat ramps? Not necessarily, you'll avoid snakes and alligators if you venture further afield, plus you can catch largemouth bass during the summer months. You'll find them hunting shad in open water or prowling near a structure in the background.
Ruskin is a great spot for fly fishing. You'll find shallow waters, mangrove estuaries, grass beds, plains and crossing waters. You can find a consistent bite of snook, redfish and trout. If you have further questions, don't hesitate to contact us.
Yes, there is a restricted area around the power plant. The most accessible area around the plant (and the most pleasing to the eye) is Apollo Beach Preserve. Any must-have recommendations for a newbie to the area If you need help choosing or arranging a charter, don't hesitate to contact our customer service team. Start with the Gulf Pier, which extends more than 1,000 feet into the bay, near the open waters of the Gulf.
Can you recommend a good fishing spot where snakes and alligators aren't a concern for children?. If you're looking for a more family-friendly fishing trip, head to Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach. Anglers fish very well from the beach for a variety of species, from the mouth of Tampa Bay, north to Bunces Pass. Grab a pair of sneakers and light fishing tackle, then check out the canals that cut through lush seagrass beds.
Species close to the coast such as snook, redfish, trout, pompano and Spanish mackerel abound in these calmer waters. This is a great option if you are looking more for a fishing adventure than just a Tampa Bay fishing spot. I normally fish freshwater lakes in several states for bass and specs and have enjoyed many years fishing Lake Erie for walleye, perch and small and large mouth bass. .
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