West Central Fly Fishing and Light Tackle Report - Tampa Bay - M
Capt. Ethan Kiburz
April 1, 2025
Tampa Bay - Saltwater Fishing Report
Spring has officially arrived on Florida's west central coast, and with it comes a surge of activity in our local estuaries and backwaters. From Sarasota to Chassahowitzka, warming water temperatures—starting in the low 60s and now pushing into the 70s—have triggered a noticeable uptick in fish movement and feeding behavior. For anglers targeting speckled sea trout, redfish, and snook, March has been a rewarding month on both fly and light tackle.
Speckled Sea Trout
As expected with the seasonal shift, speckled trout are beginning to spread out across the flats and are no longer as tightly concentrated. However, consistent numbers are still being found in deeper potholes and elevated tidal zones where oxygen levels are optimal.
Fly anglers have had success with Deceivers in the shallows, while Clouser Minnows are the top choice for targeting fish holding deeper. Downsizing to a 15-pound leader can make a noticeable difference in getting more eats, especially in clear water conditions. On the light tackle side, the NLBN 4" Mullet has been an outstanding producer, especially when targeting larger trout near structure or transitional edges.
Redfish
Redfish have been a bit temperamental during the outgoing tide but are quick to turn on during the first push of the incoming tide. Timing and tide position have been crucial.
For fly anglers, shrimp patterns remain a staple for sight fishing on the flats, especially when fish are actively transitioning. In deeper holes, larger Puglisi-style baitfish patterns have drawn strong reactions. Artificial anglers are scoring with paddle tails on jig heads, particularly in staging areas where fish wait for incoming water.
Snook
Snook have already pushed into their spring-summer zones, settling into elevated tidal zones adjacent to deeper water where they'll likely remain for the next couple of months. Activity has ramped up with the warmer temps, and they're feeding with more aggression.
Fly anglers are finding success with larger baitfish imitations, like EP-style streamers, though a well-placed shrimp pattern will still get crushed, especially on calmer mornings. Light tackle anglers continue to crush with both the NLBN 4" Mullet and 3" paddle tails, particularly when working ambush points on a moving tide.
March Wrap-Up
Warming conditions have pushed fish into more predictable spring patterns, making this an ideal time to hit the water. Whether you're fly fishing or throwing artificials, paying attention to tide, temperature, and depth has been key to finding success.
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Visit ethankiburz.com, email [email protected], or call/text 727-278-4707 to reserve your date.
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