Last Updated on September 15, 2022 by Staff Writer
As the summer winds down, many anglers begin to think about putting away their rods and taking a break from fishing. However, there’s no need to hang up your tackle just yet! The Tampa Bay area offers excellent saltwater fishing year-round, and late summer is no exception.
Late Summer Fishing in Tampa
If you’re thinking about heading to Tampa Bay for some inshore fishing now, you might be wondering what kind of fish are available. Well, there’s a good variety of fish to be had in the area, including snook, trout, and redfish. Here’s a quick overview of each of these fish, as well as some tips on how to catch them.
Redfish
Redfish are a popular type of saltwater gamefish that are commonly found in the Tampa Bay area. They are most recognizable by their golden red scales and black spot on their tailfin. They can grow up to four feet in length and weigh up to 30 pounds. Redfish are most active during the day and prefer live bait such as shrimp or crabs, but you can also use those artificial shrimp and jig heads on them as well.
The end of summer, which is soon approaching, is the best time to get these fish, especially the bull reds that come in for the spawn. Redfish are challenging to catch, but the reward is well worth it. When cooked properly, redfish have a delicious, flaky flesh that is perfect for any seafood lover. So, if you’re looking for a fun and rewarding fishing experience, be sure to target redfish the next time you’re in the Tampa Bay area.
Snook
Snook is another popular saltwater gamefish in the Tampa Bay area. They are identifiable by the long black stripe that goes down the side of their body towards the tail and can grow up to four feet in length and weigh up to 30 pounds. Snook are found in both brackish and salt water, and they’re most active at dawn and dusk.
The best time to fish for snook is from April to October. When targeting snook, you can use live bait such as shrimp or crabs. You can also use artificial lures such as soft plastic shrimp and jig heads. Live bait is the best way to catch a snook, but artificial lures can be just as effective. The most important thing when fishing for snook is to fish during their active periods. If you can do that, you’re sure to have a successful day of fishing.
Spotted Sea Trout
Spotted Sea Trout spawn inshore in the shallows, usually from March to November. As the water cools down after November, they seek deeper water that isn’t moving until they are active again in Spring. spotted trout can be identified by black spots all over their silver bodies. They put a good fight and taste good too.
If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a gator trout, the much larger fish of the same species. Live bait like live shrimp, pinfish or greenbacks works exceptionally well with speckled trout. Still, the great thing about these fish is that they are very willing to strike an artificial lure as well. So whether you’re using live bait or lures, you have a good chance of bringing in a nice catch of spotted sea trout. And what’s more, they make for a delicious meal.
Final Word
So there you have it – a quick overview of some of the fish available in the late summer Tampa Bay fishing! Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-time angler, you will have a great time on your next fishing trip. If you’re looking to target snook, trout, or redfish, you’re sure to have a great time (and maybe even catch a few fish) on your next trip! what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and enjoy some of the best fishing the Tampa Bay area has to offer!