Hernando Beach inshore fishing report

Spring weather is finally here and the fishing has been excellent in our area. In the flats the blue fish bite fantastic and provide non stop fun. We are using top water plugs for them and are being rewarded with the occasional gator trout ranging from 20 - 25 inches. The spanish mackerel are also starting to show up throughout the area in 4 - 8 feet of water. In the backcountry the redfish bite is heating up as fast as the water is. Working the shore line along the mangroves and oyster bars with gold spoons or setting up on these areas with large shrimp or cut bait have both been productive. Back in the creeks and channels the black drum are putting a constant bend in our poles. We are fishing the deeper cuts with shrimp put on a 3/0 circle hook. Put on a split shot to get it near the bottom. 14 - 25 inches is the most common size being caught. Book your trips early! Tight lines! Capt. Keith Tomlinson www.bulldogfishin.com (352)238-3581