Nearshore Fishing Report – Tampa Bay to Sarasota Bay
Q: What’s been biting offshore and around the channels this week?
Action has been steady for anglers working the nearshore structure. Kingfish are still cruising within 5–10 miles of the beaches, especially off Egmont and Bean Point. Most fish are running in the 20–30 lb class with a few smokers pushing 40. Free-lined blue runners and large threadfins have been the ticket when slow-trolled around bait pods or channel edges.
Q: How about bottom fishing?
Gag grouper continue to dominate the bite around the artificial reefs and ledges in 40–70 feet of water. Pinfish and sardines are producing the larger fish, while cut squid and frozen threadfins are drawing plenty of smaller grouper and snapper. Red grouper reports are improving the farther south you go toward Sarasota, though they’re mixed with undersized fish.
Q: Any updates on hogfish or tripletail?
Hogfish catches have been decent on light tackle with live shrimp or sand fleas over hard bottom in 30–45 feet. Tripletail are hanging near the crab trap lines and channel markers—use small shrimp under a cork for the best results. They’re picky, so patience pays off.
Q: What are boaters seeing in open water?
Amberjack are showing up on the deeper wrecks and towers beyond 80 feet. These brutes are crushing vertical jigs and big live baits. Sharks are active near the shipping channel, especially blacktips and spinners following the mackerel schools. Be ready—some hits come right at the surface.
Q: Any bait or weather updates?
Plenty of whitebait and greenbacks are back along the beaches and markers. Water temps are holding steady in the mid-70s, and the clarity has improved with the lighter winds mid-week. Expect stronger tides heading into the weekend, which should fire up the bite.
Q: Where should anglers gear up?
Stop by Skyway Bait & Tackle before you hit the water for live shrimp, pinfish, and frozen baits. Ask about our 4-inch weighted popping floats and heavy-duty rigs for grouper and kingfish season. Everything you need for your next trip—from bait to apparel—is here.
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