March has arrived on the Treasure Coast, and traditionally, we can expect windy conditions along with some rain. It might dictate where and when you can get on the water, but at least we aren’t cutting holes in the ice to fish! Water temperatures will continue to rise and the fish will be actively feeding on the flats. Winter has been kinder to us this year and the fishing has been very good so far.
As the sun warms up the water again, look for fish to travel into the shallows to feed; trout will continue to be most prevalent in the deeper grass flats in two to four feet of water. Those anglers using live shrimp on popping corks, Deadly Combos, C.A.L. jerk baits and topwater plugs, will have the best chance at hooking up with a trout. I like to fish the edges of the shallows where the water drops off to these depths. You can find some trout on the flats early, but they tend to go deeper after sunup. Depending on weather conditions, there are many areas to fish; Round Island, Bear Point and Harbor Branch are always popular in March.
Redfish will get more active this month, and you can find some tailing on the flats in early mornings. Topwater plugs, D.O.A. Shrimp, C.A.L. grub tails or gold spoons are good choices for finding a spot-tail on the flats. Don’t forget to fish around the mangroves.
I tend to like the east side of the river for redfish, but you can find them on the west side also. Work your baits slowly along the bottom for best results. Learn to read the water, so you don’t miss what is happening around you.
Anglers will continue to target snook around the inlets, docks and bridges on the Treasure Coast. Live bait always works best, but feather jigs, D.O.A. TerrorEyz and BFL lures can also get you hooked up. Most of the action will be at night, with best results on the higher end of the tides. As the water warms up around the area, the snook action will liven up also; those fishing the flats can also find snook feeding early or late in the day. Fish the mangroves during the rest of the day. Top water, twitch baits, TerrorEyz or C.A.L. jerk baits can do the trick in March on the flats.
The pompano bite has been better this year and should continue through March, and whiting, bluefish and pompano will be hanging around the beaches this month. The inlet will be holding Spanish mackerel, jacks and bluefish. Jack crevalle and ladyfish continue to haunt the river and provide a fun catch for all. Bridges should give up catches of sand perch, sheepshead and black drum on live or dead shrimp.
I think we are all ready for spring to arrive here on the Treasure Coast. It won’t be long! As always, remember, fishing is not just another hobby; it’s an adventure!
Good fishing and be safe!
FORECAST BY: Capt. Charlie Conner
Captain Charlie’s Fish Tales Charters
Phone: (772) 284-3852
Email: captaincharlie@fishtalescharter.com
Website: www.fishtalescharter.com
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