Grass flats

A cork, a jig and a shrimp over shallow grass for trout, redfish and snook.

For Spotted Seatrout, Redfish, Snook, Ladyfish

Rod and reel

One rod and reel handles most beginner rigs around Tampa Bay, from live shrimp to a popping cork.

CastPlan pick: PENN Battle IV Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo3000 reel · 7 ft · medium light · one pieceA saltwater-ready 3000-size combo with a versatile 7-foot medium-light rod for inshore fishing.Budget pick: Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Combo35 reel · 6 ft 6 in · medium · 6–15 lb lineA tough, cheaper combo from a second brand, in the same inshore class as the CastPlan pick.Already have a rod? Skip it.

Line and leader

Inshore braided main line
Sensitive enough for light bites and quick rig changes.
20-25 lb fluorocarbon leader
A clear leader for clear water over the grass.

Hooks and terminal

Adjustable popping cork
The noise draws trout and redfish over the grass.
1/8-1/4 oz jig heads
For soft plastics on their own or under a cork.
Soft-plastic shrimp
A fake shrimp that works under a cork or on a jig head.
Paddletails or jerk shads
Useful when fish want a faster or broader profile.
Optional

Bait and extras

Live shrimp
For when the fish want live bait instead of lures.
Bait shopOptional
Long-handled pliers
Quick hook removal and safe handling on a mobile trip.
Line scissors or braid cutter
Keeps leader trims and re-rigs clean on the move.
Compact inshore tackle bag
Carries the light flats setup while preserving mobility.
Optional
Small utility tackle trays
Keeps the jig, cork, and leader selection organized.
Optional

Goes with

Rigs: Popping Cork Rig Jig Head + Soft Plastic Freeline Shrimp Rig
Knots: Improved Clinch Knot Uni Knot Palomar Knot Non-Slip Loop Knot Double Uni Knot Surgeon's Knot FG Knot
Spots: Palma Sola CausewayRobinson PreserveFort De Soto

Get this kit on Amazon

CastPlan picks gear for the fish, not the commission. As an Amazon Associate, CastPlan earns from qualifying purchases.