Redfish, redfish, redfish and more redfish!
As we enter into the cold middle of February, the redfish action has gotten hotter. With a new cold front every 3-4 days, getting out to fish has been hit and miss. However, when we do get out, the fish have been mostly cooperative.

In the upper parts of Tampa Bay, poling a skiff and sight-casting to over slot reds in 12-18 inches of gin clear water has been the way to go. A patient, very stealth approach has been a must. But, the fish have, when not spooked, have been very willing to eat a variety of artificials and flies.

On the southeastern shore of the bay, sheephead and snapper have been the main targets with some smaller (rat) reds and speckled trout mixed in. Some of the rivers are holding snook that will feed in the late afternoons when the water is the warmest.

In the S. Pinellas Co. area of the bay (where I do most of my fishing) we have been absolutely hammering big redfish. 30-60+ fish has been the norm using fairly big live bait. The Sunshine Skyway fishing piers are holding the bait and it has been easy to get. There are a good number of keeper specs in the area along with sheephead and some snook when the water is warm enough. But, the reds have definitely taken center stage for the time being.

Here are a couple pics from some recent trips:

[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v727/capttommyz/th_SmashingtheReds.jpg[/IMG]

Tight Linez!!