Fishing Has Changed in Tampa Bay

The Island we wanted to fish today!

When Billy and I went out fishing on Friday we launched the boat right here in the Fam Camp RV Park at the Marina.  Billy used to fish along the shoreline of MacDill AFB but since 9/11 the waters surrounding the base are off limits to 1/2 mile out.

So we proceeded across the bay to another of Billy's favorite fishing spots.  Hello!  First time I have been pulled over in a boat by a blue light.  We were informed that no wake is allowed for two miles out (manatees), but we were allowed to go on with a verbal warning after Billy told him he was retired law enforcement.  MORE really good fishing waters closed to fishermen.  We towed the boat off of the base today to O'Neill's Marina in St. Petersberg.  Billy had a secret fishing hole there where he caught 90 reds in one outing.  OH MY!  We got almost over to the secret fishing hole and discovered that there were signs surrounding the entire island which said "No Combustible Motors."  Billy was seeing RED and phoned Fish and Wildlife to see if that meant we couldn't go into area with the motors off.   The law was as Billy thought - not allowed.  We seethed as we watched a kayak through our binoculars in our secret fishing spot, and we were not allowed.  We are supporters of preserving our saltwaters, but the "reef huggers" need to get real!  Enough said!  We caught 25-30 trout, 6 of which were nice sized keepers.  We have dental appointments tomorrow and Kevin is going to dog sit Maggie for us then we will go to his house for a mid day fish fry!  Yum!  Billy grilled steaks on the grill for dinner tonight while I trekked over to the laundromat and finished up on the laundry.  Life is Good Today!

Maggie likes to "kiss" every fish before we throw it back.

Man and His Dog Beaten by Fishing Regulations