Trout Explosion
The trout bite on Tampa Bay is getting better every day, with every cold front the water temperature drops and like clockwork trout are moving into their winter homes. Top water plugs, slow sinking plugs like the MirrOdine are getting lots of bites, move into deeper areas 3-8' and the DOA Glo shrimp ¼ or ½ ounce size is one of my favorites. Live bait like shrimp and white bait works well also. Drift the flats and drop offs until you locate the fish then anchor and enjoy the action. Working soft plastics baits allow your fisherman to cover allot of water quickly. Sunday's trip needed only 2 stops! Non stop trout action was awesome. The all artificial trip was a big success, 3 casts without a fish was the exception. Trout averaged 14-16 inches with a few very chunky 18" trout mixed in. Ladyfish were abundant and mixed in with the trout.Big schools of large Jacks are pushing there way back into upper Tampa Bay. Water temperature was 60 degrees. Look for the water temperatures to rise again quickly with steady temps in the 70's. Remember to use a de hooking devise and handle trout as little as possible safely releasing them. If taking pictures do so quickly and return the fish promptly. Trout are delicious and one of my favorites, do remember the trout season in Tampa Bay is closed.
