Springtime Fishing in Tampa Bay

Spring is one of the best times of year to book a Tampa Bay fishing charter. As water temperatures rise, bait schools push onto the grass flats and nearly every inshore species becomes more active. Whether you’re chasing snook, redfish, trout, or even mackerel, spring offers some of the most exciting fishing Tampa has to offer.

Snook Fishing in Tampa Bay

Spring snook fishing is a favorite for many local anglers. These fish move out of their winter hiding spots and feed aggressively to bulk up before the summer spawn. You’ll find snook staging along mangrove shorelines, oyster bars, and creek mouths. On my Tampa fishing charters, I like to free-line live whitebait, but tossing topwater lures at sunrise is also a thrilling way to connect with these hard-fighting fish.

Redfish on the Flats

If you’re looking for Tampa Bay redfish, spring is prime time. Reds start schooling up and patrolling shallow grass flats, often giving themselves away with wakes, pushes, or tails waving in the shallows. Live bait works great, but artificial like gold spoons and soft plastics are proven producers. On my guided fishing trips, I tailor the approach depending on whether you want to learn lure techniques or simply relax with live bait.

Speckled Trout Fishing

Spring also delivers consistent speckled trout action. These fish gather on deeper grass flats in 3–6 feet of water and provide steady rod-bending fun for anglers of all skill levels. Trout will eat shrimp under a popping cork, soft plastics, and even small topwater plugs. They’re a great option for families or anyone new to fishing Tampa Bay.

Bonus Species: Spanish Mackerel & Kingfish

By mid-spring, migratory fish like Spanish mackerel and even kingfish begin showing up in Tampa Bay and along the nearshore reefs. These species are known for blistering runs and drag-screaming excitement. If you’re looking for high-energy action, targeting mackerel is always a crowd favorite.

Tampa Bay Spring Fishing Tips

• Best Tides: A strong incoming tide in the morning usually produces the hottest bite.

• Weather: Stable conditions are key. After a late-season cold front, fishing may slow briefly, but it almost always rebounds quickly.

• Gear Tip: Use 30–40 lb leader when fishing around mangroves, docks, or targeting toothy species like mackerel.

👉 If you’re ready to experience the incredible spring fishing in Tampa Bay, book your trip with Salty Gillz Charters. As a local fishing guide, I’ll put you on snook, redfish, trout, and more—all while sharing the techniques and local knowledge that make Tampa Bay such a world-class fishery.