St. Petersburg, Florida, is a prime destination for kayak fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of waterways and an abundance of fish species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, this coastal city provides ample opportunities to enjoy the thrill of kayak fishing.
What are the Best Kayak Fishing Spots in St. Petersburg, FL?
St. Petersburg boasts several excellent kayak fishing spots, each with its unique characteristics and access points. Some of the top destinations include:
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Weedon Island Preserve: This preserve offers two kayak/canoe trails, with access points at the kayak launch next to the fishing pier and the enlarged mosquito ditch near San Martin Blvd.
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Brooker Creek Preserve: Known for its rich backwaters and flats, this preserve is a prime location for kayak fishing enthusiasts.
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Fort De Soto Park: This park is renowned for its fishing grounds and offers multiple launch points, including kayak outposts and beaches.
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4th Street Beach: A small beach area where you can launch your kayak, located just off 4th Street before getting onto Interstate 275. This spot is great for catching trout, snook, and redfish.
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Caladesi and Honeymoon Islands: These islands offer beautiful waters and are accessible by kayak, with launch points at various beaches and designated kayak areas.
What Types of Fish Can You Catch Kayak Fishing in St. Petersburg, FL?
St. Petersburg’s waters are home to a variety of fish species, each with its own seasonal availability. Some of the most common catches include:
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Redfish: Consistent throughout the year, with more activity in cooler weather. Typically 18-27 inches, with a bag limit of one fish per person.
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Snook: Active during Spring, Summer, and Fall, but tend to seek deeper waters during Winter. Typically 28-32 inches, with a closed season from December to February.
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Spotted Seatrout (Trout): Available year-round, but more abundant in Spring, Summer, and Fall. Typically 15-20 inches, with a bag limit of four fish per person.
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Ladyfish and Jacks: Common during Spring, Summer, and Fall, often caught for sport and released.
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Spanish Mackerel: More common during warmer months, with a typical size of 12 inches and no closed season.
What are the Most Effective Lures and Strategies for Kayak Fishing in St. Petersburg, FL?
To successfully kayak fish in St. Petersburg, you’ll need to use the right lures and strategies. Some of the most effective options include:
Lures:
– Live Bait: Shrimp and greenbacks are highly effective for catching Snook, Redfish, and Trout.
– Artificial Lures: Gold spoons, soft plastics on jig heads (1/8-1/4 oz), and Gulp Shrimp on small jig heads.
– Topwater Lures: Heddon Spook Jr. is effective for Redfish, especially in cooler weather.
Strategies:
– Approach: Use stealth and silence to sneak up on fish, especially in shallow waters.
– Techniques:
– For Snook and Redfish: Use live or cut greenbacks in mangrove areas, or try a gold spoon or soft plastic on a jig head.
– For Trout: A shrimp under a popping cork or a free-lined live shrimp is effective. In deeper waters, a 3″ Gulp Shrimp on a 1/4 oz jig head or a gold spoon can be used.
– General Tips: Cover a lot of water by throwing your lure upstream and working it parallel to the shoreline or oyster bar. Use free online maps and data like tides and weather to locate fish.
Reference:
1. Fishing Weedon Island Preserve – Florida Fishing Insider
2. Kayak & Paddle Board Fishing Report – St. Petersburg, FL – Salt Strong
3. St. Petersburg, FL Fishing: The Complete Guide for 2024 – Fishing Booker