[dropcap]I[/dropcap]t’s been a mild winter so far and water temps have stayed very warm. This has made the snook bite very good right next to the bridges. Snook have been stacked up along deep holes along bridges and seawalls. Snook attack bait that comes across their path and pins them next to the walls. The Roosevelt Bridge in Stuart is great place by land to get into some really big snook. Look to fish the old bridge and work the current along the bridge walls and use top water first thing in the morning. Then go to flair hawks and subsurface plugs after sunrise, such as Yo-Zuri. Jensen Beach and Stuart causeways are some of the best snook fishing in our area as well. Fish the catwalks and look for snook eating shrimp that goes by under the lights. Redfishing has been very good for waders along the west side of the river—everywhere from the Martin County line to Walton, powerlines and middle cove area look for some nice holes and be quiet. First light is always best and incoming tide. Shrimp under a popping cork will get you a bite with a mix of trout, redfish, snook, jacks, and even flounder. The beach has been very rough and has made it difficult to fish with seaweed and big waves. Pompano have been thick at Walton Rocks and Bob Graham so too have been the sharks, so make sure you bring extra rigs. Shrimp, sand fleas, and clams will get you the bite but make sure you keep moving to find the schools. Jacks are everywhere so make sure you get out there and have some fun. These guys will eat anything and it is fun for kids to hook up because they fight hard. Happy New Year and tight lines!
