Fishing News Flash

Tampa Area Redfishing had been spotty at best after the heavy does of cold this area received in mid January.  As weather moderated late in the month however, good quality fish in the 26 to 28 inch range began to show up on area flats and spoil islands.  Timing was important in intercepting these fish however.  On the days immediately preceding a cold front, or even on the morning of a day when a front would pass through later in the afternoon, these fish seemed most inclined to eat.  Also, as with redfishing througout the year, it seemd that was easier to locate these fish on the higher phases of the tide.  The third ingredient was finding the mullet.  So if you found yourself fishing a pre-front day, on a high tide, in the middle of a school of mullet, you were probably pulling on some nice redfish.  Shrimp and pinfish were the baits of choice.  Better tides will start up again the week of February 14th, so target the more available seatrout until the 14ht rolls around.  Good luck.