Attention saltwater anglers! If you're planning to head out on the water today, here's your guide to making the most of the conditions.
Weather and Conditions
-
Temperature: High of 88°F, with partly cloudy skies providing a mix of sun and shade.
-
Wind: Light at 5 mph, creating calm seas, perfect for both inshore and nearshore fishing.
-
Water Temperature: The Gulf is a warm 84°F, which keeps the fish active, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
Tides and Fishing Times
-
High Tide: 1:32 AM at 1.8 feet
-
Low Tide: 9:03 AM at 0.6 feet
-
High Tide: 3:42 PM at 2.4 feet
-
Low Tide: 10:11 PM at 1.1 feet
The morning low tide will expose some good structure, while the afternoon high tide will bring fish closer to shore. The best times to fish will be during the early morning hours and late afternoon as the tide is rising.
Best Fishing Spots
-
Longboat Pass: Ideal for targeting snook, redfish, and tarpon as they move with the tide.
-
Egmont Key: Great for nearshore fishing, targeting grouper, snapper, and kingfish.
-
Bean Point: Excellent for surf fishing, especially during the early morning high tide. Expect pompano, whiting, and flounder.
Bait and Tackle
-
Live Shrimp: Perfect for redfish and snook.
-
Pinfish or Sardines: Effective for larger predators like tarpon and grouper.
-
Jigs and Soft Plastics: Great for working the flats and channels for trout and redfish.
