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As the weather has cooled down, things have picked up the last few weeks on the water in Tampa Bay. Bait has continued to be plentiful on the flats and everything has been biting to include Snook, Redfish, Sea Trout, Spanish Mackerel, and Mangrove Snapper. Flounder, small Grass Grouper, Ladyfish, and Bluefish have also been in the mix as by-catch. All species were caught on a variety of live and artificial baits on and near the flats at Tampa's familiar haunts; however for the most variety and action in a single trip, consider targeting the numerous docks and bridges along the Suncoast…
As for tactics, Redfish succumbed to cut bait rigged on jig heads when schooled up along shorelines and near the bushes on the high tide. Snook, Mangrove Snapper, and Sea Trout inhaled free lined shrimp on a 1/0 circle hook near docks and pilings with good tidal flow, and Bluefish aggressively punished topwater plugs later in the afternoon over patchy grass flats near Ft. DeSoto. The key has been mobility - moving from spot to spot to find the fish.
For those in the know - next week marks the opening of Stone Crab Season and based a couple of scouting trips; there are gone to be a lot of delectable Stone Crab Claws come 15 October. If you are brave enough to dive in low visibility amongst the sharp and spinney things around our local bridges, you will be rewarded with delectable table fair. These dives are not for beginners nor the faint of heart, but if you find yourself frustrated after taking a pounding looking for King Mackerel, it is a phenomenal way to cool off and fill the ice box.
For more information, photos, tips, and more or to book your next saltwater adventure, contact Captain Jay Schroeder at 1-877-463-5420, visit www.cjflats.com or email
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Respectfully,
Capt Jay Schroeder CJ Flats Saltwater Charters
www.cjflats.com
1-877-463-5420 
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