Happy New Year, anglers! The weather is laying down, the hogfish are hungry, and the winter species are moving in thick. We sat down with the local experts at Skyway Bait & Tackle to get the specific details on how to maximize your time on the water this week.
As the premier #baitshops destination in Palmetto, we’ve got the intel (and the bait) you need.
The Nearshore & Offshore Report
Q: Captain Griffin mentioned a “shrimp bite” for the nearshore reefs. What exactly should we be targeting? A: Right now, the Hogfish are the stars of the show. With the waves settling down to about a foot, it’s the perfect time to hit the reefs and shipping channels. You’ll also find a “mixed bag” of Snapper, Grunts, and the occasional Red Grouper.
Q: What is the best setup for Hogfish and Snapper right now? A: If you are looking for #livebaitnearme, stop by and grab several dozen live shrimp. Use a knocker rig or a light jig head to keep that shrimp near the bottom. For the Grouper and larger Snapper, we recommend our frozen threadfins—which we sell cut or whole. Remember, we have the largest selection of frozen bait in the state, so we have the specific sizes you need to match the hatch.
The Skyway Pier Report
Q: I’m headed to the Sunshine Skyway Fishing Piers this weekend. What’s the move? A: Sheepshead are officially showing up around the pilings. These “convict fish” are notorious bait thieves, so you need a small, sharp hook and a sensitive touch.
Q: What bait works best for Sheepshead at the pier? A: They love crustaceans. Pick up some of our live shrimp or frozen sand fleas. Pro-tip: scrap the barnacles off the pilings to get them into a feeding frenzy, then drop your bait right against the concrete. We are the top-rated #fishbaitshopnearme for pier anglers because we’re just a short drive from the entrance.
The Flats Report (Tampa Bay to Sarasota Bay)
Q: The water is getting colder. How does that change the Redfish and Snook bite? A: You have to slow down. The Redfish are still very active, especially in the “slot” size, but they aren’t going to chase a fast-moving lure. We recommend using a 15lb fluorocarbon leader to keep things stealthy in the clear winter water.
Q: Where should I be looking for fish on the flats right now? A: Look for Sheepshead and Redfish around bridge pilings and dock structures. If you’re searching for #baitplacesnearme before hitting the water in Sarasota or Tampa Bay, skywaybait.com has you covered. A live shrimp on a jig head moved slowly along the bottom is the deadliest tactic for the flats this week.
Gear Up at Skyway Bait & Tackle
Whether you are hitting the shipping channels for Hogfish or the Skyway Pier for Sheepshead, don’t leave the dock without the right fuel for the fish. We are your go-to #baitshopnearme with:
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The state’s largest frozen bait selection (Threadfins, Squid, Cigar Minnows, etc.)
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Fresh Live Bait (Shrimp and seasonal specialties)
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Expert Local Advice
Visit us at skywaybait.com or stop by the shop in Palmetto!
#baitshopnearme #fishingbaitshopnearme #fishbaitshopnearme #baitplacesnearme #baitshops #livebaitnearme
How’s the stock on the live shrimp looking like