Sheepshead Tampa Bay, Ft DeSoto?
Florida Fishing
Dec 12, 2022 17:46:39 #
MikeP2
Loc: IN
Looking at water temps in the low 70's assuming sheepshead are not going to be around Tampa Bay yet.
Specifically staying next week at Ft DeSoto (inshore, Bunces pass, Shell Key area) and would like to try for them if they are around - but it seems they like mid to low 60's before they start hanging around.
Several years back bought some of the Mossy Head Bait Co mesh bags and filled them with oyster parts, but have yet to get any sheepys.
The hardest part of hanging around the bridges with my small kayak is not being able to hold position while trying to finesse fish for these guys, just about wear myself out just getting in position!
Of course will try for anything in the flats and Bunces pass using paddle tails, shrimp, and jigs.
And fend off the darn cormorants in the process!
Usually end up just 'paddling' and if I catch something then Hallelujah! so any pointers appreciated.
Specifically staying next week at Ft DeSoto (inshore, Bunces pass, Shell Key area) and would like to try for them if they are around - but it seems they like mid to low 60's before they start hanging around.
Several years back bought some of the Mossy Head Bait Co mesh bags and filled them with oyster parts, but have yet to get any sheepys.
The hardest part of hanging around the bridges with my small kayak is not being able to hold position while trying to finesse fish for these guys, just about wear myself out just getting in position!
Of course will try for anything in the flats and Bunces pass using paddle tails, shrimp, and jigs.
And fend off the darn cormorants in the process!
Usually end up just 'paddling' and if I catch something then Hallelujah! so any pointers appreciated.
Dec 13, 2022 06:13:47 #
MikeP2 wrote:
Looking at water temps in the low 70's assuming sh... (show quote)
Welcome to the stage Mike. Not sure how big the pilings are supporting the bridges you fish, but I would tie a small crab trap float to small rope and drop it up current from from the piling then paddle around the piling to encircle it. This would allow you to tie off to it then spend your time casting to the surrounding pilings. Try shrimp at the base of the pilings. They love structure and anything with barnacles. Good luck.
Dec 13, 2022 06:18:51 #
MikeP2 wrote:
Looking at water temps in the low 70's assuming sh... (show quote)
Good morning, Mike, and welcome to the Forum. There is a lot of Red Tide in that area. Check it out, and good luck!
Dec 13, 2022 13:50:46 #
FixorFish
Loc: SW Oregon
Anchors work for kayaks just as well as they do for regular boats.
Try a "collapsible" one (available in various weights...3#,6#,9#.... Walmart has them) to save space on your kayak. Just make sure you have enough rope length for the area and have a cleat or something sturdy to tie off on.
Good luck !
Try a "collapsible" one (available in various weights...3#,6#,9#.... Walmart has them) to save space on your kayak. Just make sure you have enough rope length for the area and have a cleat or something sturdy to tie off on.
Good luck !
Oct 2, 2023 14:21:33 #
DANINTAMPA
Loc: FLA. MID + UPPER TAMPA BAY
Anchors work great on kayaks BUT fishing near bridges can involve a strong current. If you don't have an anchor trolley set up; you will be pulling from the middle --- sideways. One wave + one pull and you're flipped ( experienced ). Fishing in any moving water is easier and better with a trolley; you can fish sideways, upstream, and downstream.
Small cost compared to losing your gear and maybe your life by getting caught against bridge pilings.
Small cost compared to losing your gear and maybe your life by getting caught against bridge pilings.
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