Get ready for the big DAWGS!

As we approach March and Spring settles in anglers can expect some great inshore fishing of Hernando Beach. The waters off this area are a little warmer than usual due to the mild Winter. I expect a early arrival of some species this year. Spanish mackerel are already here in good numbers, and I expect good numbers of cobia to show up soon. Be sure to tune up the heavy spinning tackle and have it rigged with a large jerk bait or a 4/0 circle hook you can quickly toss a live pin fish or white bait on. The cobia will arrive soon and are known to follow a chum slick right up to the boat. A good tool to use is to check the Tampa Bay fishing reports to get an idea of whats heading our way. It is to soon to expect any tarpon, but anglers might want to sharpen up their fly casting skills to be ready for the silver king. I like to set up in a open grassy area and cast to a bucket. I cut the hook off a older fly and practice casting into a wind or cross wind. The time to improve your game is now and then fine tune it on the water. I saw my first pod of tarpon April 1st last year, but is is warmer this year so they may arrive sooner. The shark fishing should heat up soon as well. I have been getting reports of anglers catching and seeing small bonnet heads and black tips in the shallow flats, so be ready. Now is the time to tune up up your heavy spinning tackle so if your equipment needs any attention I recommend you take it to Tom at Precision Tackle on U.S. 19 in Spring Hill. They do great work and will get you back in service quickly. Good luck out there and tight lines! Capt. Keith Tomlinson Bulldog Fishin Charters www.bulldogfishin.com (352)238-3581