Spring brings perfect fishing conditions to Tampa Bay waters. From March through May, warming temperatures and longer days create ideal conditions for catching fish. The waters from Safety Harbor to Fort De Soto come alive with feeding fish and growing bait populations, perfect for fishing charters in Tampa Bay.

Perfect Water Temperatures

Spring water temperatures in Tampa Bay range from 68 to 78 degrees, making fish more active. These temperatures bring baitfish into the bay and get gamefish moving from winter spots. The flats near Weedon Island and St. Petersburg warm up first, drawing fish into shallow waters.

Spring Temperature Benefits

• Fish become more active feeders
• Baitfish return to shallow waters
• Comfortable conditions for anglers
• Extended fishing hours with mild weather

Spawning Season Begins

Many Tampa Bay fish species start their spawning cycles in spring. Snook begin moving toward passes, while redfish gather on flats. The areas around the Skyway Bridge and Pass-a-Grille become especially productive during these spawning movements.

Spring Spawning Activity

• Snook moving toward coastal waters
• Redfish schooling on shallow flats
• Spanish mackerel arriving in the bay
• Tarpon appearing near Egmont Key

Bait Abundance

Spring marks the return of various bait species to Tampa Bay. Greenbacks show up first, followed by threadfin herring and pilchards. The flats near Apollo Beach and Upper Tampa Bay fill with bait schools.

Spring Bait Patterns

• Greenbacks on grass flats
• Pinfish in seagrass beds
• Threadfin herring near bridges
• Crabs moving through passes

Best Spring Fishing Spots

Upper Tampa Bay

• Safety Harbor flats during morning tides
• Howard Franklin Bridge during afternoon feeds
• Weedon Island mangroves on high water
• Courtney Campbell Causeway edges

Lower Tampa Bay

• Fort De Soto flats on incoming tides
• Skyway Bridge areas during bait runs
• Egmont Key passes as water warms
• Anna Maria Island beaches

Spring Weather Patterns

Spring brings stable weather to Tampa Bay, with fewer cold fronts and more consistent conditions. This stability makes fishing more predictable and productive.

Weather Benefits

• Steady warming trends
• Less wind than winter months
• Clearer water conditions
• More stable barometric pressure

Ready to experience prime spring fishing in Tampa Bay? Fishing Guide Tampa Bay's guides know the best spring fishing spots and patterns. Contact Fishing Guide Tampa Bay at 813-540-4202 to book a fishing charter today.

Book a Fishing Charter