Silver kings vacate local waters, other species targetable until their return

With a sudden vacancy of tarpon along the beaches due to the last full moon, which occurred on June 4, anglers hunting these large trophy fish are finding themselves traveling long distances to find targetable schools.

As a result, the fish that are still around are receiving less pressure which is creating a better bite. Of course, that’s if you can locate the silver kings. 

But, don’t fret. We should see tarpon return soon as they hungrily make their way back from their offshore spawn. And with the spawning areas being 70-80 miles offshore, you can bet when the fish return from they will be hungry. 

So enjoy the brief hiatus and be ready for a second wave of fish when the tarpon return. 

In the back country catch-and-release snook fishing is producing action despite the long drawn-out incoming rides that last most of the day. In many instances, these slower tides can result in a slower bite although the snook seem to be active. Look for areas where good tidal flow exists even on the slowest tides to find the best action.

Spotted seatrout are targetable during these tides. They may require a little patience as the slower water movement seems to be detrimental to their urgency to feed but they’re still worth a shot. You may encounter bluefish and Spanish mackerel in the same areas as the trout, which adds some thrills to the bite.

Lastly, mangrove snapper are gradually finding their way into Tampa Bay as the influx of hatch bait is becoming more apparent. I’m not seeing an invasion on the flats yet, but there are snapper congregating around structure and in the passes.

On my Just Reel charters, catch-and-release snook fishing remains a crowd-pleaser. Free-lining baits along mangrove shorelines, sandy beaches and rocky areas is producing decent numbers of strikes. 

After snook fishing I’m finding a variety of fish on the deeper grass flats of Tampa Bay. Spotted seatrout, Spanish mackerel and bluefish are making up the bite. Redfish are being caught at random along oyster bars and mangroves. Lastly, mangrove snapper are being found in the passes during slow-moving tides.