Cool Temps turn on the sheepshead snd Tr
January 18, 2025
Tampa
3 photos




Shark (Bonnethead)

Speckled Trout

Sheepshead

Redfish
Trip Summary
Trip Summary
Tampa Bay Inshore Charter Fishing Report
Let's talk Sheepshead first; the sheepshead bite remains very good because we’ve had some major cold fronts, and the sheepshead don't seem to mind the chill in the air/water. The bite should stay decent until the second week of March. You got to dress a little warmer, but the delicious filet of the fish on the indoor grill will make it all worth it. What is nice about this unusually colder weather (for here) it means the Snook bite will be very good in the spring. Normally, when we have a colder winter, the snook don’t feed that much, so they will wanna fatten up for sure in March, April and May.
I've also been targeting Trout and Reds from time to time on the flats. Some large schools of redfish are starting to show up in areas that usually have fish later in March, but since it's been so cold, the fish are moving around slowly, so soaking a bait on the bottom usually turns them on. I think it's going to be a great Spring and I'm excited to watch my clients have some rod bending, drag screaming action. At Rivers To Bay Fishing Charters, I want every trip to be successful, and I enjoy watching my clients catch fish. It brings a smile to my face when someone is having a fun time catching his or her very first snook or saltwater fish regardless what it is.
Let’s talk about Spring. Well, duh! Tt’s a great time to visit the Tampa Bay – Clearwater and Tarpon Springs area because the weather is just about perfect most days and the fishing is just as outstanding.
I'm keeping this report kind of short, so to sum things up: Redfish, Trout and Sheepshead are all biting, you just have to watch the tides, have the right bait and you should have a productive trip.
If you're a fellow bass fisherman like I was or if you still bass fish, and don't want to toss live bait, we can toss artificials all day for Trout and Redfish. Our trout love top-water plugs and can't resist a jerk bait if it comes across their noses.
Thanks for stopping by and I hope to hear from you soon, and I can't wait to take you out on a fun fishing adventure.
Tight Lines… Capt. John