Until the Coming of Kings, Think Big Reds

SALTWATER SCENE

Capt. Stewart Ames said he’s been fishing near passes for some big redfish to 36 inches, and most of the big reds have been near Tarpon.

Off the beaches, he said some smaller Spanish mackerel were mixed in. But no kingfish just yet.

“I think maybe by this weekend with the colder air they’ll come in,” Ames said.

There are reports of kings at the Sunshine Skyway Bridge fishing piers, and according to bait shop attendants, anglers reportedly are getting them on small jack crevalle and blue runners.

The best action will be up to five miles off the beaches for Spanish mackerel, bonito, kingfish, sharks and more.

SOMETHING TO TRY

Last week, Michael Loy from recommended anglers fish the “small bridge” for big redfish.

Ames recommends anglers continue to do the same.

“Fish near the passes for those big fish,” he said. “They’re a little hard to find right now. There are a lot of 21 to 22 inch fish and there are some offshore breeders.”

Fish just inside the passes on pot holes, oyster bars and other redfish favorites.

TIP

Redfish will begin to scatter on the flats. Fish them on low tide in the aforementioned spots, or tight to mangroves on a high tide. Try CAL jigs with shad tails. Capt. Rick Grassett of the Snook Fin-Addict recommends focusing on seams where grass and sand meet.

GUIDE

Capt. Stewart Ames of Gone Fishing Charters can be reached at 727-421-5291 or visit www.tampa-fishing-charter.com.