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Tampa Bay to Sarasota, FLORIDA

Hello from Anna Maria,

Well it seems as though things are going to start warming up around here.  I guess it’s about time too; it’s been a long cold winter even here on Anna Maria.  It hasn’t slowed my fishing though.  It really has been a good winter as far as the inshore fishing goes.  The winds have kept us from doing much offshore but that’s ok because the backwater fishing has made up the difference.  The action is fast and there are lots of good eating inshore species biting that are in season to catch.   Redfish have been my primary target and have been making up the bulk of my catch most days.  The Redfish have been very consistent on fish ranging from 16 inches right up to 33 inches.  Plenty of the Reds are keeper size and on some of the better days we have been landing better than 30 of them. 

Black Drum fishing in Tampa bay has been great this winter.  This has actually been the best black drum year I have had as far as numbers go.  Most of them are 14 to 25 inches, good eating at that size and great fighters on light tackle.

The Sheepshead is in full force right now and the fishing in Sarasota Bay has been awesome for them.   Literally all the Sheepshead you can handle.  Some real nice ones up to 6 pounds and Sheepshead are great eating and a real challenge to hook.  They make for a nice mixed bag while catching Redfish. 

The Trout fishing in Sarasota and Tampa Bay’s are really fired up.  Sarasota bay trout fishing is really producing some real nice keeper trout.  Lots of trout are in the 16 to 20 inch class with a few whoppers up to 24 inches. 

Well that’s been the catch for the last few weeks.  The water is warming quickly and things are going to change quickly.  A few more days of warm weather and my fishing will change to Snook and Redfish on the shallow flats. 

I still have a few days available in March if anyone is interested in some fast action on Snook and Redfish in shallow water.  March is one of my very best months for shallow water Back Bay fishing.  On some of the better days we will catch over 75 Snook and Redfish in ultra shallow clear water where you can see all the action happen.  It’s an awesome time for everyone whether you’re an old pro or beginner.

Don’t forget about Tarpon season, its right around the corner and for you guys planning your trips it’s time to figure out your dates. 

I hope you have enjoyed my report and hope to see you on the water.

Capt. Matt  Ercoli (800)521-2872    cell 941-447-9888
 www.captainmatt.com  And check out the videos on my new site-  www.TampaFishing.me