Bimini Inshore Fishing Report and Forecast: April 2014

Bonefish Ebbie with a prize 42-lbs.permit.
Bonefish Ebbie with a prize 42-lbs.permit caught in 2010.

Overall it has been a relatively mild winter so fish patterns and habits will be pretty much as traditionally expected in the coming months. With the arrival of spring, the inshore/flats fishing is on the move and so are the fish. Warmer air temperatures, warming waters and calmer winds will make the fishing experience more enjoyable. Bonefish have been running in the 9- to 11-pound range and will continue to be plentiful both in the sound in North Bimini and on the flats surrounding south Bimini. Warmer waters will also produce more permit (some recently caught to 40-pounds) as well as tarpon. Best natural baits are shrimp and crab. Crazy Charlie and traditional Gotcha flies work well. Fishing nearshore will produce plenty of yellowtail, mutton fish and lane snappers. Don’t forget trigger fish—yum, very tasty! Early mornings and late afternoons with a rising tide are your best times for hot action.

See you in Bimini!