Last Updated on July 26, 2022 by Staff Writer
August is a great time to fish in Tampa Bay. The weather is still hot and the fish are biting. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisherman, there’s something for everyone to catch this month.
Check out this guide to see what’s biting in Tampa Bay in August. You might be surprised at how many different kinds of fish you can catch!
1. Snook
Snook is the fish for you if you’re looking for a fight. These feisty fish are popular among anglers for their strength and their willingness to put up a good fight. Snook are also a tasty fish, making them popular for those who like to eat what they catch.
In Tampa Bay, snook can be found in both fresh and salt water, giving anglers plenty of opportunities to hook into these hard-fighting fish. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore or trolling the open waters, there’s a good chance you’ll come across a snook or two. So if you’re looking for a fun fishing adventure, be sure to target these elusive fish.
2. Redfish
When it comes to choosing the perfect fish for a day out on the Tampa Bay, few options can compete with redfish. These hard-fighting fish are not only a blast to catch but also make for excellent eating.
While they may be a bit harder to find than snook, the extra effort is more than worth it when you finally land one of these lunkers. Redfish are the perfect choice for anglers looking to fill their cooler with a delicious seafood dinner.
3. Seatrout
Seatrout are a saltwater fish that can be found in bays and estuaries along the coast of Florida. August is a great time to try your hand at catching seatrout in Tampa Bay. The water is warm and the fish are biting.
They are a popular game fish because they put up a good fight when hooked. Seatrout are also delicious, making them popular for anglers who want to eat what they catch.
If you’re interested in catching seatrout, August is the perfect time to give it a try. The warm water and active fish make for ideal conditions. So head on down to Tampa Bay and see if you can hook yourself a seatrout. You just might be surprised at how much fun you have.
4. Tarpon
Tampa Bay is one of the best places in the world to catch tarpon. These massive fish are not only great fighters but also a lot of fun to catch. When targeting tarpon, it’s important to use heavy tackle and large baits. Tarpon are often found near docks and bridges and can also be caught in open water.
The best time to fish for tarpon is during the spring and summer months, when the water is warm and the fish are actively feeding. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, catching a tarpon is an unforgettable experience.
5. Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove snapper are a popular game fish in Tampa Bay. They’re known for their fighting ability, and they’re also good eating. Mangrove snapper are relatively easy to catch, and they can be caught using a variety of methods.
Mangrove snapper are a great fish to catch for both novice and experienced anglers. They’re most commonly caught on live bait, but they will also eat frozen bait, lures, and flies. When targeting mangrove snapper, it’s important to fish around structure, such as mangrove roots, piers, and shipwrecks.
6. Cobia
August is a great time to go fishing for cobia in Tampa Bay. Cobia are a good eating fish, and they put up a good fight when you try to catch them. They’re usually found near the bottom, so you’ll need to use heavy tackle.
The best time to fish for cobia is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. If you can find a spot where there’s some structure, like a reef or a shipwreck, you’re more likely to find cobia. When you’re ready to start fishing, drop your line down and let the bait sink to the bottom. Then just wait for a bite.
Cobia are sometimes called “lemonfish” because of their yellowish color. They can grow to be pretty big, so be prepared for a fight when you hook one.
7. Spanish Mackerel
The best time to fish for Spanish mackerel is early in the morning or late in the evening. They’re most active when the sun is not directly on them.
The water temperature also plays a role in where the fish will be. When it’s warm, they’ll be closer to the surface. When it’s cooler, they’ll be deeper.
The best bait for Spanish mackerel is small baitfish like sardines or pilchards. You can also use lures that mimic these baitfish. Whatever you use, make sure you have plenty of bait because Spanish mackerel are known to be voracious eaters.
They’re not the biggest fish in the sea, but they definitely put up a good fight when you hook them. So if you’re looking for a good fight and some good eating, head out to Tampa Bay and try catching Spanish mackerel.
8. Flounder
If you’re looking for a great fish to catch in Tampa Bay, look no further than the flounder. These tasty fish are not only good eating but also a lot of fun to catch. August is a great time to try your hand at catching flounder.
The warm water temperatures make them more active, and there are plenty of places to find them. Just look for areas with lots of baitfish, and you’re sure to find some flounder. When it comes to bait, live shrimp are hard to beat. Just rig them on a light tackle setup and you’re good to go. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and give it a try!
9. Sheepshead
Anglers in Tampa Bay know that August is a great time to try their hand at catching sheepshead. These fish are known for being good eating and for putting up a good fight, making them a popular choice for anglers of all levels of experience.
Sheephead can be found in a variety of habitats throughout Tampa Bay, so it’s important to do some research before heading out on your fishing trip. Once you’ve located a likely spot, baiting your hook with crabs or shrimp is a good way to attract these fish.
Keep an eye on your line, as sheepshead are known for stealing bait without getting hooked. Patience is key when fishing for sheepshead, but if you persevere, you’re sure to have a successful (and delicious) fishing trip.
10. Pompano
August is a great time to go fishing for pompano in Tampa Bay. Pompano are a delicious eating fish, and they put up a good fight when you hook them.
The best way to catch pompano is to use a small piece of shrimp or sand flea on a light leader. A #2 long shank hook is a good choice. Cast your line out and wait for the pompano to bite. When you feel the bite, reel in slowly and steadily until you land the fish, then enjoy your fresh-caught seafood dinner!
So there you have it, ten great fish to catch in Tampa Bay during the month of August. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, there’s sure to be a fish on this list that’s perfect for you. So get out there and give it a try! You might just end up with a delicious dinner – and some great memories – to show for it.