Sports
Hit "Small Bridge" for Big Reds This Weekend
Michael Loy of Clearwater Bait & Tackle suggests hitting this local spot for a chance at some big redfish, and offers a tip about the best way to nail the big one
SALTWATER SCENE
Michael Loy of said anglers are bringing in some oversized redfish into the bait shop.
“I’m here filleting them for people,” Loy said. “They’re mostly feeding on live shrimp. Pretty much live shrimp is the best way to go.”
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Loy said the big bull redfish do not seem to have come inshore yet.
Gag grouper season opened Sept. 16, and many anglers have been heading offshore – or to the shipping channel, rock piles, or various artificial reefs by the Sunshine Skyway Bridge – to boat a keeper grouper.
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Gag grouper season ends Nov. 16.
SOMETHING TO TRY
Try targeting the “small bridge” for redfish and trout. Bait with live shrimp – Loy said medium-sized shrimp seem to be the best bet.
“They always say the incoming tide is the best, an hour or and hour and a half before the actual peak,” Loy said.
Loy likes to free-line the shrimp, sink it to the bottom, or put it under a float.
In addition to redfish, expect occasional whiting and, unfortunately, catfish.
TIP
Loy said be sure to fish the side of the bridge the current is coming from. For example, when the tide changes, switch to the opposite side of the bridge so that you are retrieving your bait back to the boat.
BAIT SHOP
is located at 2999 Gulf to Bay Blvd. Call 727-669-5455.
