Success on the Skyway?

Question

Has anyone around the Tampa Bay area had any success on the Skyway and if so, what did you use? Bits of shrimp on a sabiki rig and then used the pinfish for bigger fish? I've trying to plan a trip down there for the oast couple of weeks and I want to make sure I have all the bases covered, so to speak. Please tell me exactly what you did that made you so successful; also, some helpful tips or techniques would be much appreciated. Thank you

Answer 1

I used to go with my girlfriend's father quite often to the skyway...of course we would always comeback with nothing to show for it. Fishing  on the skyway is usually crowded, and even more crowded on the weekends. But you have to remember, everyone and their grandma who don't own a boat will be there on that bridge. But if you do fish there, there are rows of  of rubble and concrete that run perpendicular on both sides of the pier, its been awhile since ive fished there so i cant tell you exactly where they are, but ask around, most of the people that fish there are veteran skyway fishers and are usually pretty nice about it. That's how I learned they were there. For gear, I recommend heavier spinning outfits, and depending on currents and tides will determine which side of the pier you will want to be and also how much weight you will need, Ask the toll booth worker as you enter the pier and they will tell you the tides, currents, etc. Using a cast net or sabiki will get you plenty of baitfish to use. Ive seen people catch some nice sized  tarpon out there so don't be afraid to launch out a pinfish under a bobber. Also don't forget a bridge gaff. It would sure suck to catch something worthwhile and not being able to bring it up from such a long way down. If you can help it, I suggest making a friend with a boat. My dad and I quite frequently fish the bay area with better luck on our boat, Trolling the channels with deep diving plugs and over shallow reefs with shallow running plugs are usually rewarding. Good luck to you, and hopefully you'll have some nice fish to show for it.

Answer 2

I never had much success on the skyway.......I had better luck fishing the causeway of the Courtney Cambell.....live shrimp will catch reds and trout

Answer 3

Nope no luck