Tampa Bay and Surrounding areas

October 28th, 2009

Tampa Bay Fly Fishing October Report

The temperature is finally stating to drop a little and the fishing is getting the way it should be this time of year. Fly fishing for redfish is really starting to heat up in areas inside of Tampa Bay. The water clarity is good and we’ve been having plenty of sunny days to sight fish for reds.

Fishing the lower water is key to finding redfish over clear sandy bottom or in potholes. The reds are cruising and hunting for food at this time. When you see one, make a quick 30 foot cast with a fly or jig and watch it get bit! Most of the redfish I’ve found are large singles or in small groups. Other species we have been targeting with a fly are snook and some cobia.

The Mangrove Coast Fly Fishers and Sarasota Chapter of the Coastal Conservation will hold the fourth annual Fall Fly Fishing Challenge this Saturday, Oct. 31 out of the Ken Thompson Park boat ramp on City Island in Sarasota. The catch, photo and release event features an Open Division and Fly Angler Division. If you like to fly fish please come check it out! Visit http://www.mangrovecoastflyfishers.com/tournaments.php
for more info.

We recently had the Second annual RedFly tournament hosted by Capt. Jon Bull. The weather was horrible but it was a great time meeting everyone and getting out on the water. Here are he results-”Only 3 total redfish were measured in. Joe Welbourn and Tom Tylisz measured a 25.75″ redfish to take second place and $195 prize. First place went to Capt. Bryon Chamberlain and Capt. Nick Angelo who found two great specimens measuring out at 29.00″ and 28.75″ for a total of 59.75″ and a $300 first place prize.” Another All fly tournament may be in the works soon.. Thanks again and I hope everyone can get out there and wet a line!!

Capt. Nick Angelo