Anglers are in for a treat this weekend with pleasant weather and favorable fishing conditions along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Whether you’re casting from shore, wading the flats, or heading offshore, there are plenty of opportunities to reel in some keepers.
Inshore:
- Trout: Trout fishing is heating up, with good numbers being caught in the Fort De Soto area and north towards Anclote Key. Try using a 3-inch Savage Gear Manic Shrimp rigged under a popping cork for best results.
- Redfish: Redfish are also biting, though they may be a bit more elusive than trout. Focus your efforts around mangrove shorelines and oyster bars during high tide. Live shrimp or cut bait are good choices.
- Snook: Snook season is open, and anglers are reporting catches in the passes and around bridges. Live bait is your best bet, but artificial lures like jigs and swimbaits can also be effective.
- Other species: Keep an eye out for jacks, ladyfish, and bluefish, which are also active in the inshore waters.
READ: Florida Fish And Wildlife Works To Recover 100’s Of Vessels Displaced By Hurricanes
Nearshore:
- Spanish mackerel: Spanish mackerel are being caught just off the beaches. Look for them around bait schools and use fast-retrieving spoons or jigs.
- Kingfish: Kingfish are also present in the nearshore waters. Troll live bait or spoons to entice a strike.
Offshore:
- Grouper: Gag grouper season is open! Head to deeper waters and try bottom fishing with live bait or cut bait.
- Snapper: Red snapper season may be closed, but other snapper species like lane snapper and mangrove snapper are still on the menu. Bottom fishing with light tackle and small baits is the way to go.
- Pelagic fish: Keep an eye out for mahi-mahi, wahoo, and tuna, which can be found further offshore. Trolling is the most common method for targeting these species.
READ: Miami Man Cited For Multiple Fishing Violations In The Florida Keys
Tips:
- Check the tides: Tides play a crucial role in inshore fishing. Plan your trips around high tide for the best results.
- Use the right bait: Match your bait to the species you’re targeting. Live bait is generally more effective, but artificial lures can also work well.
- Be patient: Fishing requires patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a bite right away.
- Practice catch and release: Help conserve fish populations by practicing catch and release whenever possible.
Enjoy the beautiful weather and good luck on the water!
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