The past couple of weeks on the Nature Coast have been a tale of two fisheries. Inshore, it’s been a grind. Offshore, it’s been lights out.
Inshore Update
Trout fishing has been challenging lately. Cold fronts pushed the majority of fish off the flats and into protected river systems and shallow mangrove shorelines, where they’ve been holding tight and showing little interest in covering ground. If you want them, you have to work for them. That means moving around, covering water, and staying patient with your presentations.
Redfish have been a different story entirely. They’ve stayed shallow and feeding, and live bait has been producing quality fish consistently. When trout are being stubborn, the reds have picked up the slack.
Offshore Report
Offshore has been where it’s at. Sheepshead have been stacking up in the 25 to 40 foot range and the bite has been solid, though we’re starting to see some signs of the season winding down on that front. Get on them now if sheepshead is on your list.
Hogfish are showing around rocky structure in that same depth range and extending deeper, which is typical this time of year. If you’re willing to put in the bottom time, they’re there.
Mangrove snapper have been a standout in the 35 to 60 foot range, with steady, reliable action. Move out to deeper ledges and hard structure and you’ll find quality red snapper and red grouper holding well.
What’s Coming
Warming temperatures are on the way, and with that comes a shift in the fishing. Spring patterns on the Nature Coast are some of the best of the year, and we expect overall activity to ramp up across the board as the water warms. Now is a good time to get your trip on the calendar before the schedule fills up.
Ready to get after it? Book your charter here and let’s put you on fish.
