Florida Fishing (File) Anglers along Florida's Gulf Coast are in for a treat as the summer heat begins to ease and fishing conditions improve. Wit
Anglers along Florida’s Gulf Coast are in for a treat as the summer heat begins to ease and fishing conditions improve. With a variety of species biting both inshore and offshore, now is a great time to grab your gear and head out on the water.
Just remember to keep an eye on the afternoon thunderstorms and check those tide charts before you go!
Inshore Fishing:
- Redfish: Redfish are active in the shallows, especially around mangroves and oyster bars. Live bait like shrimp or pinfish is a good choice, as are soft plastic lures or jigs.
- Snook: With snook season reopening on September 1st, anglers are eagerly anticipating the return of this popular game fish. Snook can be found near inlets, bridges, and mangrove shorelines.
- Trout: Look for speckled trout on the flats and in seagrass beds. Topwater lures and live shrimp are effective baits.
- Flounder: Flounder are ambush predators, often found lying in wait on sandy bottoms. Use live bait or jigs bounced along the bottom to tempt them.
Read: New FWC Decals Support Florida’s Manatees And Sea Turtles
Nearshore/Offshore Fishing:
- Snapper: Mangrove snapper are biting well around reefs and wrecks. Use light tackle and small hooks baited with shrimp or squid.
- Grouper: Gag grouper season is closed, but anglers can still target red grouper and other species. Live bait or large jigs are effective for grouper fishing.
- Kingfish/Mackerel: Kingfish and Spanish mackerel are providing exciting action for anglers trolling or casting with spoons or jigs.
- Sharks: Various shark species are active in nearshore and offshore waters. Use heavy tackle and strong leaders when targeting sharks.
Tips & Reminders:
- Check local regulations for bag limits and size restrictions before heading out.
- Practice catch-and-release for fish you don’t plan to keep.
- Respect the environment and other anglers.
- Be aware of weather conditions and adjust your fishing plans accordingly.
Read: FWC Urges Boaters And Divers In Florida To Prioritize Safety With Divers-Down Flags
Tight lines and good luck on the water!
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