[fishfingers]

I am headed down to Tampa area this weekend and plan to teach my buddy the basics about light tackle around the area. We'll probably get him outfitted with some light tackle gear etc. Any tackle shops you all recommend?


Fishing spots?
I have heard of fishing Gandy bridge among others.
Any tips on where to fish from shore as well as what to fish for right now would be great.

Tackle and bait?
Tackle for snook, sheepshead , sea trout and anything else that is biting?

Also, I bought him a cast net assuming that would be best for catching bait. Please let me know if there are any other suggestions or options.


Finally, do we need licenses to fish from shore?

Thanks for any help you may be able to provide!

 

[BBCroaker]

I might help some.
I've been down there for the last 2 yrs.First year some one told me that I didn't need a license fishing of the shore .I didn't get caught since I fished and didn't ge one. I found out the next year that was for residence only.
The next year i got a non- residence i yr licence but never got checked.
I heard the walkway on the Gandy bridge is closed .
You don't need a license on the Skyway Pier

 

[bunger79]

Fish,
You can catch anything in tampa bay from snook, red fish, mangrove snapper, cobia, and more. I was stationed there for 4 years in the coast guard. I found the best set up is LL a 4 inch finger mullet on in a 4500 shimano baitrunner with a med-heavey rod. I like ulgy stick. As far as tackle shops I use to go to gandy tackle a lot cause it was 1/2 block from my apartment. I used to fish the gandy bridge walk way, but this is the first I am hearing it is closed. I will ask some friend down there. If it is open you can LL and catch Red fish, snook, and specks. If youhave the time and a car go to the skyway fishing pier. I think it is like 5 bucks to fish it. You do need a license. I think a 7 day is 10 bucks. You can get them a wal-mart or tackle shop. On the sky way you hae more of the fish I mentioned above. I would again LL 4 inch finger mullet or thread fin on 50lb leader with a 5/0 add about 3oz lead to leader 6 ft above hook that will get you to the bottom and allow for the big boys. Make sure you use circle hooks I am not sure, if it is the same from the bridge but in the gulf you can only use circles any more. Another spot I just remembered is FT. Desoto. It is just north of sky way bridge. It has private natural beach for the family and a nice pier for you best of both worlds. I would do the same as at the bay bridge. I would also ask the people on the pier and watch them. I go down there every year for 2 weeks. Great fishery. Hope this helps. If you have any more questions PM me.
Chad