Welcome to Fisherman’s Cove RV Resort in Terra Ceia Bay, where we bring you the weekly fishing report to help you make the most of your fishing trip. As Captain Erik mentioned in our video, the weather will be beautiful, and the fishing will be excellent. With light winds in the mornings and southwest winds in the afternoon, our temperatures will warm up as the days progress, making fishing for seasonal species just paradise. Our artificial reefs are already starting to hold some fish, and the bite is strong!
As we work to grow the health of our bay, it’s essential to follow the fishing regulations to protect the sustainability of the existing fish populations. Here’s what you need to know about the trout, redfish, and sheepshead regulations in Tampa Bay, Florida, in February.
Trout Regulations
Trout fishing in Tampa Bay is open year-round, but it’s essential to know the bag limit and size limit for the species. In February, anglers can keep up to four spotted seatrout per person, per day, with a minimum size limit of 15 inches and a maximum size limit of 20 inches. The use of spearing or gigging for trout is prohibited. Trout fishing is popular in grass flats, channels, and deep holes, so be sure to use artificial lures, live bait, or flies in these areas.
Redfish Regulations
Redfish are a popular game fish in Tampa Bay and are known for their powerful runs and hard fights. However, following the bag and size limits is crucial to ensure that the redfish population remains healthy. In February, anglers can keep one redfish per person, per day, with a minimum size limit of 18 inches and a maximum size limit of 27 inches. Redfish are found in shallow flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines, so make sure to use natural bait, cut bait, or artificial lures.
Sheepshead Regulations
Sheepshead is a member of the porgy family known for its sharp teeth and excellent taste. However, it’s crucial to follow the regulations to protect the sustainability of the sheepshead population. In February, anglers can keep up to eight sheepsheads per person, per day, with a minimum size limit of 12 inches. Sheepshead is found in rocky areas, docks, and bridges, so make sure to use live or dead shrimp, fiddler crabs, or sand fleas.
In addition to the bag and size limits, it’s important to remember that some areas in Tampa Bay are designated as no-fishing zones. These areas are essential for conserving marine life, so check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website or mobile app to know the location of the no-fishing zones.
It’s never a bad day to go fishing in Tampa Bay, so get out there, and catch them up! We’ll be here at Fisherman’s Cove RV Resort to assist you in your fishing dreams when you do. This is Captain Erik, and we’ll see you next week with another weekly fishing report.
