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Big Trout Making A Comeback

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 14, 2007

GO FISHING is a daily look at the area fishing scene through the eyes of local charter boat captains and fishing guides. Today: Mike Anderson, right (with "Reel Animals" partner Billy Nobles).

One of my favorite things to do this time of year has always been fishing the deep edges of the flats with artificials. Especially during the super-low winter tides. These tides force all of the trout and redfish to pour off the flats and settle right on the edge.

On Tuesday, we took Tom Murray of Southeastern Toyota and Ryan Simmons of Pure Fishing out for a morning of low-water jigging. The Fort DeSoto area hasn't produced much of a trout bite the last couple of years, but things are straightening out. In a couple of hours, we caught and released several trout in the 18- to 23-inch range and eight slot-sized redfish.

The baits of choice were 3-inch New Penny Gulp shrimp and white 5-inch Gulp jerk shad, both rigged on a jig head. We also caught several fish using the new MirroLure MirroDine.

Trout fishing in the South region is closed until the first of the year, so take along a dehooking device so you can release the trout without having to touch them. This will increase their survival rate and ensure this fishery continues to thrive.

There also are plenty of ladyfish and schools of big jacks around to keep the whole family occupied. It should be a great weekend to get out on the water.

Catch captains Billy Nobles and Mike Anderson on the "Reel Animals Fishing Show" on Saturdays from 6:30-7 a.m. on WFLA, Channel 8, and on Sundays from 8-10 a.m. on WHBO, 1470 AM. To book a charter, call 1-866-GAMEFISH or visit www.reelanimalsfishingshow.c

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