Water temps are finally settling in along the Nature Coast, and the fish are responding. Activity is up across the board, and the last few weeks have given us some of the better fishing we’ve seen in a while.
Inshore, the trout bite has been flat-out good. We’ve been drift fishing the flats in 6 to 9 feet of water with artificials, and on the right tide it’s been steady action with some genuinely quality fish in the box. If you’ve been waiting for a good window to get out, this is it.
Cobia are starting to show up, which is always an exciting time of year, and we’re seeing solid numbers of mackerel moving through as well. Redfish are active along the inside island structure and southern shorelines—these fish are tight to the mangroves, so presentation matters. A well-placed shrimp right on the edge will get eaten, but you’ve got to put it there.
Snook are holding in good numbers and eating confidently on live bait. Keep your presentation natural and make sure you’re throwing at least 30 lb leader—these fish will find the structure fast once they’re hooked.
Offshore has come alive in the 45 to 65-foot range. We’re putting together nice mixed bags of hogfish, mangrove snapper, and keeper red grouper. It’s been a well-rounded bite and a great option for anyone looking to fill the cooler.
A couple of dates worth marking on the calendar: greater amberjack season opens May 1, and we’re looking forward to mixing in some topwater on deeper trips when the opportunity is right. Red snapper opens June 1 and runs through October—early signs point to a strong season.
Conditions right now are about as good as they get for both inshore and offshore. Come find out for yourself.
Tight lines.
