Tampa, Florida

What's biting

• Redfish (Red Drum)

  Where: Shallow flats and mangrove edges in Tampa Bay, Hillsborough Bay, and the Alafia River; 0.3–1.5 m (1–5 ft) water.

  Sight-cast live mullet or use topwater plugs early morning or late afternoon. Redfish are feeding heavily as water cools; focus on structure and current breaks. Waning moon favors lower light periods.

  Caution: Check current slot limits and bag rules with FWC before keeping any fish.

• Spotted Seatrout

  Where: Grass beds and sandy holes in Boca Ciega Bay, Lower Tampa Bay, and near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge; 0.6–2.4 m (2–8 ft).

  Use small live shrimp under a popping cork or soft plastics (3–4 inch). Early morning bite is best; water is still warm but cooling trend triggers feeding. Work the edges of seagrass beds.

• Tarpon

  Where: Deep channels and passes near the Sunshine Skyway, Egmont Key, and the mouth of Tampa Bay; 2–6 m (6–20 ft).

  Live mullet or mackerel on heavy tackle; sight-cast to rolling fish at dawn. September is transitional—some fish are still resident, others migrating. Requires patience and skill.

• Spanish Mackerel

  Where: Open water and nearshore reefs off Clearwater Beach and Egmont Key; 3–9 m (10–30 ft).

  Cast small silver spoons or live baitfish; work fast-moving water and structure. Early fall brings cooler water and improved mackerel activity. Trolling is effective from a boat.

• Snook

  Where: Mangrove shorelines, dock pilings, and river mouths (Alafia, Hillsborough, Little Manatee); 0.3–1.2 m (1–4 ft).

  Live shrimp or small mullet near cover; cast tight to structure at dusk. Snook are nocturnal hunters; night fishing with a headlamp is highly productive. Handle carefully—they are catch-and-release only in many areas.