Tampa Bay Fish species

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Tarpon are the pinnacle of fly fishing pursuit.  They are a highly migratory species who visit the Tampa By coast April-August with the main numbers generally appearing in May, June and into July

An excellent game fish that move around the bay according to the season.  Probably the most effective way to fish Snook is on the dock lights at night as they are nocturnal feeders

A great species to pursue on fly due to their affinity for shallow water.  Very spooky fish that requires an accurate generally long cast to sight fish

A ubiquitous species found on grass flats and structure inshore.  They respond well to short casts while blind fishing and great skill in casting is not necessary to catch them

A fun fish to catch as they strike hard, jump high and are tenacious fighters.  Often found in large schools; when you find one you will catch a bunch! Long casts and great skill are not needed to be successful

Our southern versions are much smaller generally that their northern cousins, but they don't know they're under 5 lbs because they fight enthusiastically.  I call them the Piranha of Tampa Bay as they attack in packs and have sharp teeth

A whimsical fish that hangs around crab trap floats and flotsam in the Gulf of Mexico.  Generally a good bet during the Fall when Stone Crab season starts

A mysterious fish that is often a surprise catch on the salt & pepper flats and along the beach in passes during warmer months.  An excellent fighter and prized for its flavor

A vicious fish that can sometimes be found frothing the water in a feeding frenzy.  They range in the Tampa Bay region from less than a pound to about 15 pounds.  They pop up suddenly and are gone just as quickly

A favorite of the bridge fisherman who uses bait like shrimp to catch them.  Sheephead will strike flys in certain situations on the flats and back Bay areas during the colder months and are a prized catch on a fly.  Often called the poor mans Permit

Found solo and in large schools.  Mackerel are often seen slashing the water in pursuit of bait fish.  They possess sharp teeth and require a long shank hook or wire to prevent cutoffs.  A big one will put you on the reel and make a nice run

The speedster of the Gulf and one of the most fun fly rod fish available.  Fall and spring bring these fish in close to the coast where they are normally found in large schools ripping up the water.  A fast cast and speedy strip through the school results in a solid hook-up and a knuckle busting run well into the backing