Winter time Fishing in Tampa Bay

Wintertime fishing in Tampa Bay

During winter time in Tamp the fishing can be an exciting and rewarding experience. As our fishery starts to hunker down in their winter time pattern, you can expect to catch the Tampa Bay Slam, which consists of Redfish, Snook, and trout all in one spot! This time of year you can switch up your tactics as far as bait is concerned. Depending on what you are targeting here is a list of baits we use daily on our Tampa Fishing Charters to keep the bite consistent,  Pilchards, artificial lures, shrimp, and fiddler crabs. Here’s what you need to know as you bundle up and get on the water:

Fish Species to Target:

1. Trout – Spotted seatrout are abundant in cooler months. Look for them in deeper holes and around grass flats.
2. Redfish – Redfish gather in schools and are often found around oyster bars and mangroves.
3. Sheepshead – These fish are prevalent near docks, bridges, and rocky areas. They are known for their distinct stripes and bait-stealing skills.
4. Snook – Though snook prefer warmer waters, they can still be caught near power plant outflows or deeper channels where the water is warmer.

Best Fishing Techniques:

• Live Bait: Shrimp and small baitfish are excellent choices during winter.
• Artificial Lures: Soft plastics, jigs, and slow-moving plugs can be effective when fish are less active due to cooler temperatures.
• Slow Your Presentation: Fish tend to be more lethargic in cooler water, so a slower presentation will often yield better results.

Optimal Locations:

• Deep Channels: Fish often move to deeper waters to find warmth.
• Estuaries and Flats: These areas can warm up during the day and attract fish.
• Structure: Docks, piers, and bridges offer shelter and attract baitfish, drawing predators.

Weather Considerations:

• Cold Fronts: After a cold front passes, fish may be less active, but as temperatures stabilize, they often start feeding again.
• Tides: Like any time of year, paying attention to tidal movements is crucial for success.

Gear Tips:

• Use lighter tackle to feel more subtle bites.
• Ensure you have appropriate clothing for cooler mornings, but be prepared to shed layers as the sun warms up.
• Fluro carbon leader ranging from 15 lb to 25 lb test

When winter approaches do not get discouraged that the fishing is going to bad because that is not the case. All you have to do is embrace the cold and adapt to the pattern the fish fall into. Look for warmer areas to fish such as, back country mangrove mud areas or around seawalls and oyster bars, as these areas will hold fish because of the water temperatures typically will be a few degrees higher than other spots. If using artificial baits slow down you presentation and bounce jigs with swim baits or paddle tails off the bottom to entice the fish to eat. The fish during the colder periods really do not want to work for their food to eat, so a slow presentation is really effective. If you decide to use live shrimp or pilchards adding a split shot type of weight to your leader will be effective as it will bring your bait down to the bottom and not move so much making it an easy meal.

Fishing in Tampa Bay during the winter can be less crowded and provide some of the best opportunities for catching trophy fish. If you are traveling to Florida from out of state and decide not to go fishing, there are many other attractions you can visit to have a great time. Some of these attractions that Florida has to offer are Busch Gardens, Sea World, and also the infamous Disney World.

Busch Gardens 

Busch Gardens is a popular amusement park located in Tampa, Florida. It offers a mix of thrilling roller coasters, animal encounters, and entertainment shows. Known for its African-themed areas, the park features attractions such as the Serengeti Safari, where visitors can get close to giraffes and other wildlife, and adrenaline-pumping rides like SheiKra and Tigris.

For families and adventure seekers, Busch Gardens provides a unique blend of wildlife experiences and exciting rides. It’s a great destination for locals and tourists looking to spend a fun-filled day exploring diverse attractions in a beautiful, themed environment.

Sea World

SeaWorld is a chain of marine-themed amusement parks located in the United States, known for their aquatic animal exhibits, live shows, and thrilling rides. The parks feature a variety of marine life, including dolphins, orcas, sea lions, and other ocean creatures, providing guests with the opportunity to learn about marine conservation and animal care.

Key Highlights of SeaWorld Parks:

1. Animal Shows: These include dolphin and orca performances, as well as sea lion and otter shows.
2. Rides and Attractions: SeaWorld offers a mix of roller coasters and water rides for thrill-seekers.
3. Animal Exhibits: Visitors can explore aquariums, touch pools, and interactive habitats.
4. Educational Programs: SeaWorld focuses on marine conservation, offering behind-the-scenes tours and interactive experiences.
5. Seasonal Events: Parks host special events throughout the year, like holiday-themed celebrations and food festivals.

SeaWorld locations include parks in Orlando, Florida; San Antonio, Texas; and San Diego, California. Each park provides unique experiences and attractions tailored to its local environment.

Disney World

Disney World, located in Orlando, Florida, is a massive entertainment complex and one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. It features four main theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Each park offers unique attractions, themed areas, shows, and dining experiences. Additionally, there are two water parks, numerous resorts, and a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options at Disney Springs.

Known for its iconic characters, rides like Space Mountain, and spectacular parades and fireworks shows, Disney World provides a magical experience for visitors of all ages. It’s a place where you can explore different cultures at Epcot, immerse yourself in movie magic at Hollywood Studios, or go on a safari adventure at Animal Kingdom.

Planning a visit often involves selecting the right time to avoid crowds, choosing accommodations, and making dining reservations in advance. Whether you’re going for a family trip, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Disney World has something for everyone.