Search Concludes in Old Tampa Bay

The body of a man who went missing while paddleboarding was recovered on Monday in Old Tampa Bay. The discovery followed an intensive search operation that began after he was reported missing over the weekend.

The individual was last seen at approximately 4 p.m. on Saturday near the Courtney Campbell Causeway, which links Tampa and Clearwater. The Tampa Police Department confirmed that the man's family reported him missing shortly after 9 p.m. on Sunday.

Recovery Efforts and Investigation

Search operations commenced on Monday morning once visibility and weather conditions improved. At around 11 a.m., officers from the department’s marine unit discovered the man’s paddleboard and personal belongings on the west side of the bay.

His body was located and recovered approximately one hour later near the causeway bridge. While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities stated that foul play is not currently suspected. The man has not yet been identified, pending the notification of his next of kin.

Paddleboard Safety Regulations

The Courtney Campbell Causeway remains a popular destination for both residents and visitors. However, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds the public that stand-up paddleboards are legally classified as vessels.

As such, paddlers are required to adhere to safety regulations similar to those for boaters, including:

  • Carrying a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
  • Possessing a sound-producing device on board.
  • Utilizing lights when visibility is reduced.

The FWC warns that environmental factors such as glare, fog, and choppy water can significantly impact the visibility of small watercraft.