Fishing is really heating up

Current spring conditions around Belleair Bluffs and nearby Clearwater are improving fast with warmer water, more bait moving in, and better action both inshore and offshore. Spanish mackerel are already showing strongly on the flats and near bridges, while grouper, triggerfish, and kingfish action should continue improving through April. Grunt – Grunts are biting well on nearshore hard bottom and reefs in 40–80 feet. Small pieces of squid, shrimp, and cut bait on light tackle are producing steady action. Red Grouper – Red grouper action is solid offshore in deeper structure and hard-bottom areas west of Clearwater. Live pinfish, sardines, and cut bait around ledges and rock piles are working best. Offshore captains around Belleair Bluffs have continued reporting red grouper catches through the cooler months, which is a good sign heading into April. Cobia – Cobia should begin showing more consistently around markers, buoys, rays, and nearshore wrecks this month as water temperatures climb. Keep a pitch rod ready with live pinfish or large jigs. Black Sea Bass – Black sea bass are still available offshore on rocky bottom and reef structure, especially mixed in with grunts and snapper. Shrimp and squid on bottom rigs are working. Triggerfish – Triggerfish are holding on deeper wrecks and reefs offshore. Smaller hooks tipped with squid or cut bait are best because they can be picky and steal bait easily. King Mackerel – Kingfish activity should pick up over the next few weeks around bait schools, shipping channels, and offshore reefs. Slow trolling live bait like threadfins and sardines is the best approach. Spanish Mackerel – Spanish mackerel are one of the hottest bites right now. Schools have moved onto the shallow grass flats, passes, and bridges, and anglers are seeing nonstop action with flashy spoons, jigs, and live bai