Fishing Reports for Tampa Bay, July Fishing Forecast Clearwater and Dunedin

July 2011
June was a very active month for fishing the flats and inshore waters. July should not be any different. Clearwater Bay and St. Joseph Sound in Dunedin have been on fire with all of the shallow water species showing up on the incoming tide. Moving around to different flats at various stages of the tide will be July’s most productive pattern.

The water temperatures will be near 90 degrees and the afternoon air temps are reaching 95. As long as you can keep moving with the tide and check different grass areas out, fish will be found this month.
What to look for? Snook, Redfish and Trout. So many of my clients want to catch all three and secure the fame of catching a “Slam”.

This time of year, look for snook to be on the beaches and in the passes of Anclote, Dunedin and Clearwater. The water is so clean that you might be able to spot the fish before you spook them. If so, back off and set up in casting range. A nice 3 to 4 inch green back will be your best bait. Don’t pass up a small pin fish, grunt or large shrimp; they have all caught their share of snook.
Redfish are out there but have been moving around the flats and inshore waters. Best bet is to use the incoming tides and search along mangrove shore lines. I have been having great success with live shrimp. To test a spot out, break up several shrimp and throw them out with a chum bat along the mangroves. Cast your baits in that direction and give it a few minutes. A response should happen rather fast and if not, move.

Pick a grass flat inside the major passes and set up on the moving tide. Trout, mackerel, bluefish, lady fish and small sharks have been all over the flats. Use shrimp on a float or 3 inch green backs for non-stop action. Some 4 to 5 lb. mackerel and blue fish have been caught using this method along with some 20 inch trout.

So get out there and catch a slam. Have your camera ready to snap a quick picture and release alive. Catching a trophy on our pristine waters in July is waiting.

Capt. Gary Burch
www.allcatchcharters.com