Inshore fishing has been the name of the game these past couple weeks, with primarily high winds in the mornings and afternoons. Getting offshore is tough to do safely in a smaller boat so sticking to the passes for pompano has been key. There have been plenty of pompano off of the beaches as well. Using live sand fleas for pompano is a top suggestion, however… artificial baits will work in addition to live or frozen shrimp. Working that bait slow on the bottom seems to be the best method! We are seeing some LARGE model snook and redfish on the flats!! Using live, frozen or artificial bait can all be productive. Spring time produces some warmer waters, producing an influx of bait…which then draws in the larger species!! We have already had several reports of large tarpon schooled up in the bay. I predict seeing those migrators off of the beaches before normal. We have heard of a few crabs already flowing so those nearshore wreck permit should be good and ready for us once this wind dies down a bit! We do carry a good amount of artificial baits that work really well for tarpon. NO LIVE BAIT NEEDED makes a fantastic heavy duty paddle tail in an assortment of colors and available jig head sizes to chose from for rigging. DOA Bait busters are a “tried and true” local favorite for tarpon. We also have you covered when it comes to the right rod and reel for chasing the SILVER KING! If you are looking to book a fishing charter for tarpon we would be more than happy to set you up with the best possible guides in the area. Don’t wait too long though, these fish will be here before we know it and the guides tend to book up quickly! As always, please don’t hesitate to ask us if you have any questions, and TIGHT LINES!!