Season Targets for Tampa Bay Fishing

Tampa Bay Seasonal Fishing Calendar

Fishing in Tampa Bay is great year-round, but each season brings unique opportunities. As a local Tampa Bay fishing guide, I’ve put together a breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year.

Spring Fishing in Tampa Bay

Highlights: Snook, Redfish, Trout, Spanish Mackerel, Kingfish
Why it’s Great: Bait returns to the flats, water temps warm up, and just about every inshore species starts chewing.
Best Time to Go: Morning incoming tides with stable weather.

📖 Full guide here: Spring Fishing Tampa Bay

Summer Fishing in Tampa Bay

Highlights: Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Sharks, Mackerel
Why it’s Great: The silver king migration! Tarpon fishing is at its peak, and snook move to the beaches to spawn. Early mornings are the ticket.
Best Time to Go: Dawn patrol to beat the heat and afternoon storms.

📖 Full guide here: Summer Fishing Tampa Bay

Fall Fishing in Tampa Bay

Highlights: Redfish, Snook, Trout, Mackerel, Cobia
Why it’s Great: Cooler weather fires the fish up again, and redfish schools get big. It’s one of the most consistent times of year for variety and numbers.
Best Time to Go: Morning and evening tides—plenty of comfortable fishing conditions.

Winter Fishing in Tampa Bay

Highlights: Sheepshead, Redfish, Trout, Black Drum
Why it’s Great: Clear, cool water makes for excellent sight-fishing, especially for redfish. Sheepshead are a reliable target around structure.
Best Time to Go: Midday, when the sun warms the shallows and gets the fish active.

👉 Whether it’s spring snook, summer tarpon, fall redfish schools, or winter sheepshead, Tampa Bay offers year-round action. If you’re ready to plan your next trip, book your Tampa Bay fishing charter with Salty Gillz Charters and experience the season at its best.