Warm days make wade fishing a real treat. Tampa Bay produces great areas to fish but many of the areas require a boat to get out and wade. There are areas that can be reached by foot. A couple productive areas are located around Simmons Park, Fort Desoto and the Skyway flats.
I like fishing the falling tides using both artificial soft plastic baits, shrimp and cut threadfins. Some days you have to fight off the catfish but if you persevere you will find the reds. During the warmer months you have to be aware of your surroundings and watch for sting rays, they usually liter the flats and blend in perfectly with their habitat. One way to accomplish shooing them away is with the sting ray shuffle.
Another great tip I can give you, is not to attach your stringer to your waist. I don’t think most realize how great the shark population is in both the bay and on the very same flat they are fishing. Yes most of the time you wont be bothered but don’t allow them to give into temptation or mistake your leg for a tasty mullet. Popular wade fishing rigs I use most often include a Cajun Thunder popping cork, with 2.5 feet of Fluorocarbon leader and a 2/0 Owner hook. For bottom fishing I use the same leader with a small split shot and a 2/0 owner hook.
So get out there, enjoy the scenery, be safe and have fun. Until next time tight lines!
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