The 10 Most Popular Fish To Catch In Tampa, Florida

Tampa, Florida is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts from all over the world. The warm climate, pristine waters, and diverse marine life make it one of the best places to cast a line. Here are the 10 most popular types of fish to catch in Tampa, their seasons, where to catch them, and the type of bait to use.

1. Snook

Snook is a highly sought-after game fish in Tampa. These saltwater fish are usually found in the shallow waters of the Tampa Bay, where they feed on crustaceans and small fish. The best time to catch snook is from April to September, which is their spawning season. Anglers can catch them by fishing around docks, bridges, and other structures that offer shelter. Live shrimp, small baitfish, and artificial lures are the best baits for catching snook.

Snook is a favorite among anglers because of its hard-fighting nature, making it a thrilling catch. They are also considered one of the tastiest fish in Tampa Bay.

2. Redfish

Redfish is another popular game fish in Tampa. These hard-fighting fish are found in the shallow flats and backcountry areas of the Tampa Bay. The best time to catch redfish is from August to November, when they gather in large schools to spawn. Anglers can catch them by fishing around mangrove shorelines, oyster bars, and grass flats. Live shrimp, crabs, and cut bait are the best baits for catching redfish.

Redfish are a popular target among anglers due to their impressive size and strength. They are also known for their delicious meat.

3. Trout

Trout is a highly sought-after game fish in Tampa Bay. These saltwater fish are found in the shallow waters of the bay. The best time to catch trout is from March to October. Anglers can catch them by fishing around grass flats, oyster bars, and sandy bottoms. Live shrimp, small baitfish, and artificial lures are the best baits for catching trout.

Trout are popular among anglers because of their fighting nature and their excellent table fare.

4. Tarpon

Tarpon is one of the most prized game fish in Tampa. These large and powerful fish can weigh over 200 pounds. Tarpon can be found in the shallow waters of the Tampa Bay from May to August. Anglers can catch them by fishing around bridges, channels, and other structures that offer shelter. Live baitfish, crabs, and artificial lures are the best baits for catching tarpon.

Tarpon are a top target for many anglers because of their size, strength, and acrobatic behavior. Catching a tarpon is considered a significant accomplishment among fishing enthusiasts.

5. Grouper

Grouper is a popular bottom-dwelling fish in Tampa Bay. These large and powerful fish can weigh over 50 pounds. Grouper can be found in the deeper waters of the Tampa Bay, usually around shipwrecks and other underwater structures. The best time to catch grouper is from April to December. Live baitfish, squid, and cut bait are the best baits for catching grouper.

Grouper are a favorite among anglers because of their size and strength, making them a challenging catch. They are also known for their delicious meat.

6. Flounder

Flounder is a popular fish that is found in the shallow waters of the Tampa Bay. These bottom-dwelling fish feed on small fish and crustaceans. The best time to catch flounder is from March to November. Anglers can catch them by fishing around sandy bottoms, oyster bars, and other structures that offer shelter. Live shrimp, small baitfish, and artificial lures are the best baits for catching flounder.

Flounder are a popular catch among anglers because of their unique appearance and excellent table fare.

7. Spanish Mackerel

Spanish mackerel is a popular game fish in Tampa Bay. These fast-swimming fish are usually found in the open waters of the bay. The best time to catch Spanish mackerel is from April to October. Anglers can catch them by trolling or casting artificial lures. Small spoons, jigs, and plugs are the best baits for catching Spanish mackerel.

Spanish mackerel are popular among anglers because of their speed and agility, making them a challenging catch. They are also known for their delicious meat.

8. Sheepshead

Sheepshead is a bottom-dwelling fish that is found in the shallow waters of the Tampa Bay. These fish feed on crustaceans and small fish. The best time to catch sheepshead is from December to March. Anglers can catch them by fishing around piers, docks, and other structures that offer shelter. Live shrimp, fiddler crabs, and sand fleas are the best baits for catching sheepshead.

Sheepshead are a popular catch among anglers because of their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare.

9. Cobia

Cobia is a popular game fish in Tampa Bay. These fish can weigh up to 100 pounds and are usually found in the open waters of the bay. The best time to catch cobia is from March to October. Anglers can catch them by fishing around buoys, markers, and other structures that offer shelter. Live baitfish, crabs, and artificial lures are the best baits for catching cobia.

Cobia are a popular target among anglers because of their size and strength, making them a challenging catch. They are also known for their delicious meat.

10. Kingfish

Kingfish, also known as king mackerel, is a highly sought-after game fish in Tampa Bay. These fast-swimming fish are usually found in the open waters of the bay. The best time to catch kingfish is from April to November. Anglers can catch them by trolling or casting artificial lures. Live baitfish and spoons are the best baits for catching kingfish.

Kingfish are a popular catch among anglers because of their speed and agility, making them a challenging catch. They are also known for their delicious meat.

Find Your Next Catch In Tampa

In conclusion, Tampa, Florida is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. The diverse marine life and pristine waters make it an excellent place to cast a line. The ten most popular types of fish to catch in Tampa, their seasons, where to catch them, and the type of bait to use have been discussed in this article. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, there's something for everyone in Tampa Bay. So grab your fishing gear and head out to the bay for an unforgettable fishing experience on one of our many fishing charters in Tampa.