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Captain's Corner: Tarpon showing up on beaches, bridges

 
Published May 16, 2016

Well, it didn't take long for the weather to heat up. It's good to see the consistent strong winds of the past four months have subsided. The mornings are hot, but at least we get the afternoon sea breeze. If you are a tarpon angler, then you are in luck. Tarpon are starting to show up thick on the beaches and bridges. You have to work a little to get one to eat, but they are eating. Threadfins have been the bait of choice but expect that to change next weekend with the full moon. I expect them to key in on the crabs with the afternoon hill tides. The bite should be in full swing after next weekend's full moon. If you want to catch a fish of a lifetime, get out on the water the next couple of months. There's nothing better than watching a 6-foot, 150-pound tarpon jumping in the air time after time. The snook bite is hot as they start to fatten up for the spawn. They have been more aggressive in the late morning and afternoon. When you first get to a spot, throw out the biggest bait you have in the water without chumming. This usually entices the bigger fish to eat. After about 15 minutes throw out some chum to get the snook all fired up.

Mike Gore charters out of Tampa Bay. Call him at (813) 390-6600 or visit tampacharters.com.