🎣 Fishing Spot: Weedon Island Preserve

🏞️ General Details About Weedon Island Preserve

Weedon Island Preserve represents the pinnacle of shallow water inshore fishing in Tampa Bay—a 3,190-acre coastal sanctuary where crystal-clear flats, labyrinthine mangrove tunnels, and productive grass beds create one of Florida's most diverse and accessible fishing ecosystems. Located on the western shore of Tampa Bay in north St. Petersburg, this expansive preserve combines world-class fishing opportunities with stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history that dates back thousands of years to its indigenous inhabitants.

Unlike pier-based or offshore fishing destinations, Weedon Island is a shallow water paradise specifically designed for sight fishing, kayak fishing, and wade fishing. The preserve's unique geography—a complex network of tidal flats, mangrove-lined channels, oyster bars, grass beds, and protected backwaters—creates perfect habitat for the "Big Three" of Tampa Bay inshore fishing: redfish, snook, and spotted seatrout. During optimal conditions, anglers can witness schools of tailing redfish pushing wakes across grass flats, trophy snook ambushing baitfish in mangrove shadows, and aggressive seatrout attacking topwater lures over sandy potholes.

The preserve's "no combustible motor zones" protect critical habitat while creating exceptionally calm, shallow water ideal for kayak and wade fishing. These motor-free areas are where the magic happens—where you can pole within casting distance of cruising fish, watch their body language, and present baits with surgical precision. This is fishing at its most primal and visual: you against the fish in water so clear you can see every move they make.

The preserve features nearly 5 miles of hiking trails and boardwalks, a 45-foot observation tower, a fishing pier, and a 4-mile paddling trail through pristine mangrove tunnels. Kayak and canoe rentals are available on-site through Sweetwater Kayaks. Whether you're a hardcore sight-fishing enthusiast stalking tailing redfish on skinny flats, a kayak angler exploring remote mangrove creeks, or a family looking for accessible fishing from the pier, Weedon Island delivers an authentic Florida fishing experience.

🌟 Why Weedon Island Preserve Is Special

• Premier Sight Fishing Destination
  Weedon Island offers some of the best sight fishing opportunities in Tampa Bay. During optimal conditions (calm winds, clear water, proper tides), anglers can see tailing redfish, cruising snook, and nervous baitfish from hundreds of feet away. This visual hunting style transforms fishing from blind-casting into an active stalking experience that requires stealth, precision, and understanding of fish behavior.

• Shallow Water Accessibility
  The preserve's extensive flats, with water depths ranging from 6 inches to 4 feet, are perfectly suited for kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and wade fishing. You don't need a $60,000 flats boat to access world-class fishing—a simple kayak and paddle will put you on trophy fish in areas where boats cannot reach.

• Protected No-Motor Zones
  The "no combustible motor zones" eliminate boat traffic, noise, and pressure in the most productive areas. These quiet sanctuaries allow fish to behave naturally and give anglers a peaceful, meditative fishing experience. Pole your kayak through mangrove tunnels at dawn and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to undiscovered Florida.

• Year-Round Inshore Slam Opportunities
  The Tampa Bay "Inshore Slam"—catching snook, redfish, and seatrout in a single session—is a realistic goal at Weedon Island during any month. The preserve's diverse habitat supports all three species simultaneously, and skilled anglers frequently land all three on a single tide change.

• FREE Access
  Unlike many premium fishing destinations, Weedon Island Preserve is completely free to access. No entrance fees, no parking fees, no daily permits. This democratization of world-class fishing makes it accessible to everyone, from local anglers fishing before work to traveling families on vacation.

• Kayak Fishing Paradise
  The preserve's protected waters, intricate mangrove channels, and 4-mile paddling trail create ideal conditions for kayak fishing. Launch from the free kayak ramp, explore hidden creeks, and fish areas completely inaccessible to traditional boats. The combination of exercise, exploration, and fishing creates an experience that dedicated kayak anglers consider unmatched.

• Multiple Fishing Environments
  Within this relatively compact 3,190-acre preserve, anglers can target fish in dramatically different environments: open grass flats for sight fishing, mangrove tunnels for ambush-feeding snook, oyster bars for sheepshead and redfish, residential docks for nighttime snook, sandy potholes for seatrout, and deep channels for winter refuge areas. This variety means you can adapt to changing conditions and always find productive water.

• Conservation and Education
  Weedon Island isn't just a fishing spot—it's a living classroom where anglers learn about estuarine ecosystems, sustainable fishing practices, and habitat conservation. The Cultural and Natural History Center provides context that deepens your appreciation for the resource. Fishing here connects you to 3,000 years of human interaction with Tampa Bay.

• The "Honey Hole" Potential
  Hidden throughout the preserve are deep pockets and channels that hold water during negative low tides—these "honey holes" concentrate fish during winter cold fronts and low water periods. Anglers who invest time exploring and learning the preserve's subtle bathymetry discover secret spots that produce non-stop action when surrounding areas go dead.

🐟 Species and Seasonal Timing

Weedon Island's shallow water ecosystems support a remarkable diversity of inshore gamefish. The preserve's position on Tampa Bay, combined with grass flats, mangroves, and varied bottom structure, creates year-round fishing opportunities.

🎯 Mastering Weedon Island: Advanced Techniques

Success at Weedon Island requires understanding shallow water dynamics, reading visual cues, and adapting to the preserve's unique geography. These three techniques will dramatically improve your catch rates and transform you into an accomplished sight fisher and inshore specialist.

🎣 Technique #1: Sight Fishing for Tailing Redfish on Grass Flats

Overview
Sight fishing for tailing redfish represents the pinnacle of shallow water angling—a visual, strategic hunt that combines stalking skills, accurate casting, and understanding of fish behavior. When conditions align (calm winds, clear water, incoming tide, warm temperatures), redfish move onto grass flats in 6-18 inches of water to feed on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. As they root through turtle grass with heads down, their tails break the surface—creating the iconic "tailing" behavior that signals feeding fish to observant anglers.

Weedon Island's grass flats along the "slow speed markers" facing Tampa Bay are prime tailing redfish territory. During spring and fall, schools of 10-50 redfish push across these flats in organized feeding patterns, creating wakes visible from hundreds of yards. This technique demands stealth, precision casting, and patience—but rewards with some of the most exciting fishing experiences available.

When to Deploy This Technique

• Prime Seasons: March-May (spring) and September-November (fall) when water temps are ideal and baitfish are abundant
• Secondary Seasons: Summer early mornings before heat, winter warm afternoons after cold fronts pass
• Best Conditions: Calm winds under 10 mph, clear water visibility 2+ feet, sunny or partly cloudy skies (to see fish)
• Optimal Tides: Incoming tide first 2-3 hours; water moving onto flats brings bait and triggers feeding
• Time of Day: First light through 10am is prime; late afternoon 4pm-dusk during summer; middle of day during winter warmth
• Water Temperature: Above 70°F for consistent activity; 75-85°F is optimal

1. Approach and Positioning
The cardinal rule of sight fishing: fish can see you just as easily as you see them.

Kayak Approach:

• Pole, Don't Paddle: Use a pushpole or paddle blade as pole to silently move across flats
• Stay Low: Sit or kneel in kayak; high profile spooks fish
• Sun Position: Keep sun at your back so you can see into water without glare; fish can't see your silhouette as clearly
• Distance: Maintain 60-100 feet from target area until you spot fish
• Drift Strategy: Position upcurrent and drift silently toward fish; minimal movement

Wade Fishing Approach:

• Slow, Deliberate Movement: Shuffle feet, don't lift and stomp; creates less vibration
• Minimal Disturbance: Each step creates ripples—let water settle between steps
• Watch for Oysters: Wear protective boots; oyster cuts are serious
• Stay Behind Fish: Redfish face into current while feeding; approach from downcurrent
• Use Available Cover: Position behind grass clumps or slight depth changes

2. Visual Hunting: Reading the Water
Success depends on spotting fish before they detect you.

What to Look For:

• Tails: Gold-bronze tails waving above surface as fish feed head-down
• Wakes: V-shaped surface disturbance as schools move across flats
• Nervous Water: Ripples and surface disturbance indicating fish movement underneath
• Mud Clouds: Brownish clouds created when redfish root through grass and mud
• Mullet Activity: Mullet jumping or fleeing often indicates redfish pushing baitfish
• Dark Shapes: Shadows on bottom that move differently than grass waving

Environmental Clues:

• Grass Edges: Transition zones between thick grass and sand are fish highways
• Potholes: Sandy openings in grass beds concentrate feeding fish
• Depth Changes: Slight drop-offs from 12 inches to 18 inches hold fish
• Current Lines: Where moving water meets slack water creates feeding zones

3. The Stalk: Closing Distance
Once fish are located, closing to casting range without spooking them is critical.

• Distance Management: Get within 40-60 feet for accurate casts; closer is better but riskier
• Movement Timing: Move when fish have heads down feeding; freeze when they lift heads
• Predict the Path: Don't chase fish—predict where they're heading and position ahead
• One Shot Philosophy: Assume you get one cast before spooking; make it count
• Calm Mindset: Rushed, jerky movements spook fish; smooth and patient wins

4. The Cast: Precision Matters
Tailing redfish require surgical casting accuracy.

Casting Strategy:

• Lead the Fish: Cast 5-10 feet ahead of moving fish, in their path
• Don't Overcast: Landing lure directly on fish will spook them; short is better than long
• Sidearm Delivery: Lower trajectory creates less splash and line shadow
• Minimal False Casts: Each cast creates movement; one backcast and deliver
• Account for Wind: Even light wind affects light lures; adjust aim accordingly

5. The Presentation: Make It Natural
How you work the lure determines success.

Soft Plastic Technique:

• Let lure sink to bottom (1-2 seconds in shallow water)
• Slow, Subtle Hops: Lift rod tip 6-12 inches, creating small dart
• Pause 2-3 seconds between hops
• The strike often comes on the pause as lure settles
• Keep contact with bottom—redfish feed down

Gold Spoon Technique:

• Steady, medium-slow retrieve just above grass tops
• Occasional pause lets spoon flutter down
• Creates flash that attracts from distance
• Weedless design allows fishing in thick grass

Topwater Technique:

• Use when fish are aggressively feeding
• "Walk the dog" retrieve with rhythmic twitches
• Pause occasionally to let rings expand
• Explosive surface strikes are heart-stopping

Match the Conditions to Timing:

• Calm Days: Fish early mornings when wind is minimal; afternoon wind makes spotting impossible
• Cloudy Days: Fish can be harder to see but less spooky; extend fishing later into morning
• Post-Cold Front: Wait 2-3 days for water to clear and fish to resume normal feeding

Follow the Mullet:
Large schools of mullet swimming across flats often have redfish trailing them. When you see mullet nervously jumping or fleeing, redfish are pushing them.

🐟 Technique #2: Fishing Mangrove Shorelines for Ambush-Feeding Snook

Overview
Mangrove shoreline fishing at Weedon Island taps into one of nature's most efficient predator-prey relationships. Snook—Tampa Bay's most prized inshore gamefish—use the complex root systems, shadows, and structure of red mangroves as ambush points, waiting for baitfish, shrimp, and crabs to swim past. The preserve's extensive mangrove-lined channels, especially within the "no combustible motor zones," create miles of prime snook habitat where kayak anglers can target fish in skinny, protected water.

This technique requires precision casting into tight spaces, understanding tidal flow and mangrove structure, and quick reactions when snook strike explosively from cover. Whether fishing with live bait pitched tight to roots or working topwater plugs along mangrove edges at dawn, this is aggressive, heart-pounding fishing that rewards accuracy and boldness.

2. The Cast: Accuracy Wins
Mangrove fishing demands pinpoint casting to tight targets.

Pitching Technique (for live bait):

• Hold lure/bait in off-hand, rod tip low
• Gentle underhand "pitch" motion—pendulum swing
• Release at apex of swing for accuracy
• Lands softly with minimal splash
• Perfect for getting baits under branches and into pockets

Sidearm Cast (for lures):

• Lower trajectory avoids branches
• Better accuracy in wind
• Creates less line shadow on water
• Allows casting under overhanging limbs

Target Zones:

• Tight to Roots: Within 6-12 inches of mangrove roots
• Shadow Lines: Edges where sunlight meets shadow
• Pockets and Points: Open areas between root masses
• Under Overhangs: Get bait deep into structure

3. Live Bait Presentation
Free-Lining Method (No Weight):

• Hook bait through nose (both lips)
• Cast tight to mangroves, minimal weight
• Let bait swim naturally along shoreline
• Current carries bait past ambush points
• Keep minimal tension—just enough to detect strike

Light Split-Shot Method:

• Use single small split shot 12-18 inches above hook
• Just enough weight to control presentation in current
• Bait swims more naturally than heavy rigs
• Perfect for moderate current

Working the Bait:

• After cast, let bait orient and begin swimming
• Occasional gentle twitch to activate but don't over-work
• Follow bait's drift with rod tip, maintaining slight bow in line
• Watch line for any twitch or unusual movement—often first strike indicator

4. Artificial Lure Presentation
Topwater Technique (Dawn/Dusk):

• Cast parallel to mangrove line, 2-4 feet off roots
• "Walk the Dog": Rhythmic downward twitches create side-to-side action
• Work lure slowly—snook will come from distance
• Pause: Occasionally stop completely; explosive strikes often on pause
• Work lure past entire mangrove section before retrieving

Soft Plastic Technique:

• Cast to target, let sink 1-2 seconds
• Steady retrieve with rod tip low
• Occasional hard twitch to create erratic dart
• Pause 1-2 seconds
• Maintain contact with lure—strikes can be subtle

Jerkbait Technique:

• Cast parallel or tight to structure
• Sharp downward jerks separated by 1-3 second pauses
• Erratic darting mimics injured baitfish
• Most strikes on the pause

5. The Fight: Winning Battles in Structure
Snook around mangroves try to wrap line in roots—you must win quickly.

First 5 Seconds Are Critical:

• Apply maximum drag pressure immediately
• Turn fish's head away from structure
• High rod angle pulls up and away
• If snook reaches roots, point rod at fish and apply steady pressure to pull out

Fighting Strategy:

• Keep rod high—angles fish toward surface and away from snags
• Steady, powerful pressure—don't give line willingly
• 2-3 strong runs expected; be ready for sudden direction changes
• Snook shake their heads violently—keep tight line
• When close, lead away from structure before netting

Pro Tips for Mangrove Snook Success

Dawn Topwater Magic:
The first hour of light produces the most explosive topwater strikes. Arrive at fishing grounds 30 minutes before first light. As light increases enough to see mangrove edges, start working topwater plugs. The first 20 casts often determine the day's success.

🧭 Where to Fish at Weedon Island Preserve

The Fishing Pier
Located at the end of Weedon Drive NE, this is the most accessible fishing area. The pier stands where the historic bridge once connected Weedon Island to neighboring Snell Island. Target sheepshead, jack crevalle, snook, redfish, seatrout, and ladyfish. The western oyster bar adjacent to the pier is legendary for redfish and sheepshead—many wade fish this area. Parking and restrooms available. Great for families and anglers preferring structure over kayak/wade fishing.

Outer Flats (Along Slow Speed Markers)
The grass flats facing Tampa Bay along the marked "slow speed" channel are prime sight fishing territory. These flats extend from preserve boundaries into Tampa Bay proper. During spring, summer, and fall, this is tailing redfish heaven. Also excellent for seatrout, ladyfish, jacks, and occasional Spanish mackerel. Accessible by kayak or small boat. Water depths 1-3 feet over grass and sand. Best fished during calm mornings.

No Combustible Motor Zones (Inner Flats and Mangroves)
The preserved mangrove shorelines and inner flats inside motor-restricted areas offer the most pristine, undisturbed fishing. Target snook along mangroves, redfish on flats, and seatrout over grass. These protected zones are kayak and wade fishing paradise. Exceptional populations due to minimal boat pressure. Spring, summer, and fall produce non-stop action.

Riviera Bay and Residential Docks
Once past the fishing pier heading west, the channel opens into Riviera Bay—a protected basin with deep water (6-12 feet) surrounded by residential docks and seawalls. These structures hold fish year-round: snook, reds, sheepshead, ladyfish, seatrout, black drum, and flounder. Night fishing under dock lights is exceptionally productive for snook. Winter refuge area when cold fronts push fish into deeper water.

Mangrove Shorelines and Backcountry
The preserve's interior mangrove shorelines and backcountry channels hold excellent numbers of redfish, snook, and seatrout during winter months. These protected, shallow areas are best accessed by kayak. Extreme low tides make navigation difficult—most areas under 12 inches deep with occasional deeper pockets. Find the "honey holes" (deep pockets holding water during negative lows) and you'll discover non-stop winter action.

South Paddling Trail (4-Mile Loop)
The marked 4-mile kayak trail through mangrove tunnels offers exceptional fishing opportunities while paddling. Small creeks, cuts, and channels hold snook, redfish, and seatrout. Fish while paddling, stopping at productive-looking structure. Requires minimum 1.1 ft tide to navigate tunnels without dragging. Above 2.5 ft becomes difficult due to low overhead clearance. Magical experience combining paddling and fishing.

Channel Edges and Drop-Offs
Throughout the preserve, channels cutting through flats create depth changes from 2 feet to 6+ feet. These edges are fish highways, especially during winter. Seatrout, redfish, snook, and flounder patrol these zones. Work lures along edges, fishing from deep to shallow. Weekdays with low boat traffic, fish the sandbars and oyster bars lining channels.

Small Bridge and Gandy Launch Area
Inside Riviera Bay, a small bridge on the west side provides structure and current flow. Underneath and around bridge pilings, find snook, reds, and sheepshead. There's a small boat ramp here (limited to 4 vehicles) suitable for very small boats and kayaks. Good alternative launch when main area is busy.

Website: https://www.weedonislandpreserve.org
Location: 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
Fishing Type: Year-round shallow water inshore; kayak, wade, and pier fishing
Access: FREE—no entrance fees, parking fees, or permits
Preserve Hours: 7:00 AM to dusk daily
Target Species: Redfish, Snook, Spotted Seatrout, Sheepshead, Flounder, Black Drum, Tarpon, Ladyfish, Mangrove Snapper
Fishing License: Standard Florida saltwater license required
Kayak Rentals: Sweetwater Kayaks (on-site)
Cultural Center: Thu-Sat 9am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Phone: (727) 453-6500