The Tarpon have arrived and in great numbers!! The water temperature is perfect and it is prime time for catching Tarpon. The time around the new and full moon create the best opportunity to catch these fish, as the Tarpon feast on the abundance of pass crabs and other baitfish that are flushed out on the strong outgoing tides. Egmont channel and the Sunshine Skyway are favorite spots for anglers, using live crabs, threadfins, or even cut bait on the bottom. Motor uptide, and drift the bait naturally, and a strong tug is soon to follow!

Snook fishing in the Tampa Bay area is also on fire as they are moving to the passes to prepare for the spawn. This is one of my personal favorite ways to catch Snook as they are often sight-fished right off the surf. Live whitebait or pinfish are a must as these fish are very picky in clear water conditions. Downsizing your leader and choosing a slightly smaller hook will increase your hookups.

The Redfish bite has been steady with slot fish being taken in the Port Manatee and Tarpon Key area. Stealth is the key as some of these fish are heavily pressured and spooky. Live whitebait or cut lady fish will always get the job done! Speckled Trout have remained strong with Trout up to 25 inches being taken on The Fort Desoto and Pinellas Point grass flats in four to six feet of water. Freelined whitebait has been the key, but if throwing a cast net isn’t your style, a shrimp under a Cajun Thunder popping cork is a solid choice.

To book a charter call 863-640-2208 or send an email to gonecoastalcharters@yahoo.com. Call before 5-30-09 and receive 20% off ALL CHARTER RATES! Few dates for the Boca Grande Tarpon season available, so call today to book your charter! Good Fishing!! Captain Josh Gone Coastal Charters 863-640-2208 Gonecoastalcharters.com gonecoastalcharters@yahoo.com