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Captain's Corner: Fly fishing for reds

 
Published Sept. 15, 2014

What's hot: "We used to practice on Tampa Bay redfish to catch bonefish in the Keys, now we practice on bonefish in the Keys to catch Tampa Bay redfish," noted fly fishermen Lefty Kreh said. Fishing and boating pressure have changed our fish's behavior. Schools of reds are feeding heavily in the shallow water of our bay and surrounding areas in preparation for an upcoming spawn. Guides that fish with bait are reporting large numbers of successful outings. Are those of us that prefer fly fishing at a disadvantage?

Tactics: Fly fishing for reds in shallow water is more like hunting: be very stealthy and cautious, wear clothes that blend in with the environment, get out of the boat and wade, and be able to make long, accurate casts with a minimum of false casting. Carefully placing a good imitation of a bait fish, shrimp or crab close to the nose of a wary red is necessary. If fish are moving, lead them as you would when wing shooting. The cast will be where the fish will be soon after the fly lands. When pursuing tailing or slow-moving sighted fish, drop the offering close to the fish's nose without pulling it into its face. Smaller flies and long finer leaders are frequently necessary.

Pat Damico runs charters in lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpat.com and (727) 504-8649.