Fly Fishing Tampa Bay with Captain Ethan: Saltwater Wisdom from a Local

Alright, let’s talk fishing—real fishing. None of that “throw a line and hope” nonsense. If you’re hitting Tampa Bay, Clearwater, or any of these honey holes around here, you’re in for a treat. I’m Captain Ethan, born and raised in Safety Harbor, and let me tell you, these waters? They’re like an old friend—moody, unpredictable, but damn rewarding if you know how to listen.

Tampa Bay’s Playground

You want variety? This place has it. Tarpon off the beaches that’ll make your heart race, Snook lurking in the mangroves like sneaky little bandits, and Reds cruising the flats like they own the place—which, honestly, they kinda do. Every bend in the creek, every hidden channel near Shell Key (shhh, don’t tell everyone), there’s something waiting to test your skills.

Tarpon: The Silver King (and Your New Obsession)

Listen, Tarpon aren’t just fish—they’re a full-blown adrenaline addiction. That heart-stopping moment when one explodes from the water, scales flashing like a damn disco ball? Nothing like it. And yeah, they’re picky. Water temps gotta be just right—usually somewhere in the 70s—but when they show up, it’s chaos in the best way. Had a client last season hook into a beast that nearly yanked him overboard. True story.

Now, gear? Don’t overthink it. A 10-12 weight rod’ll do the trick, but your reel? That thing better be tougher than a two-dollar steak. Tarpon don’t play nice. And leaders? Fluorocarbon’s your friend here. Lighter bite sections these days—trust me, the fish notice.
Flies: Keep It Simple, Stupid

Black and purple. That’s my go-to. Why? Because I can see ’em, and if I can’t spot my fly in a frenzy of rolling Tarpon, we’re screwed. But here’s the kicker: it’s not just the pattern. It’s where that fly lands. Too far ahead? They ignore it. Too close? Spooked. It’s a dance, and Tarpon lead.

Seasons? More Like Mood Swings

Winter’s all about Reds and Speckled Trout—slow, steady, like fishing in a postcard. Then spring hits, and it’s like someone flipped a switch. Tarpon, Snook, Jacks—everything’s hungry and everything’s moving. You gotta adapt. One day you’re poling the flats at dawn, the next you’re chasing shadows in the backcountry. That’s the fun of it.

Let’s Get You Out There
Half-day, full-day, hell—stay ’til the sun dips if you’ve got the stamina. We’ll chase whatever’s biting, and if luck’s on our side, maybe you’ll land something that’ll make your buddies back home jealous. Shoot me a message, and let’s get you on the water. Just don’t blame me when you’re hooked for life.
—Captain Ethan Kiburz (your soon-to-be favorite fishing guide)