Tampa Bay Fly Fishing Report

Low Tides and a Cold Front

We are now in a run of negative low tides that are perfect for getting out of the skiff and hunting fish on foot. We also had another 24 hour blast of cold north winds that dropped our water temperatures a bit.

As has been the case with the last 2 cold bumps the Trout bite really turned on. Big numbers of mostly 12" to 16" Trout with the occasional big one mixed in.

The cooler weather has not been too severe and the warmer water species are still on the feed. The last few days the snook bite has been on! If you work the structure, Points, Rocks, Mangroves and Docks your rod will stay bent. In the mornings it is super important to move your fly super slow. Short twitches and long pauses are the key. When my fly lands I have been letting it settle for 10 to 15 seconds. Most of the fish have been hitting the fly as it has been sinking rather than on the strip.

For snook 4" to 5" baitfish are the go to. Olive and Yellow, Olive and White and Yellow and White have been drawing attention.

The photo above and below is Baxter House Guide Matt Hackett who is fishing Tampa Bay for the first time.

This week Jacks have been active and we have been on them daily. It has ranged from 20 pounders down to 2 pounders. Some of the action with the mid sized ones has been crazy.

For the most part these fish have been attacking any fly that we have on at the time we find them. I always keep a rod rigged with a popper or gurgler for these fish. They love to eat on top.

Below is my uncle, Rich Tutalo with his favorite Tampa Bay species

This week we have also had the opportunity to cast to both Cobia and Tarpon but without any success. The tarpon gave a few follows but no takes.

Over the last few days we have had a few Redfish but these were taken while fishing the mangroves. I have not put any real time targeting these fish on the flats during the last week.

The forecast for the next week looks good for continued steady action. Mostly sunny days in the mid 70's. Perfect for being on the water.

For those who are not familiar with the winter low tides and the Fly Fishing opportunity associated with them here are some pics.

I have also included a quick video clip of a beautiful Tampa Bay flat.

I am booked up for the next 4 days with guests. Early next week I have our first year Baxter House guide, Luc Genovesi flying in for some fishing so reports and social media posts should continue to flow. Make sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

If you would like to get away for a fishing trip give us a call. We can plan your stay and time on the water. If you are visiting the area this winter give us a call to reserve your dates. Our fishing grounds are local to Tampa, Clearwater, Bradenton, Sarasota and the Disney attractions in Orlando. 607-290-4022