For the avid bone fisherman, March marks a very important event in the history of bonefishing and Bimini. Forty-three years ago, Jerry Lavenstein of Virginia Beach and bonefish guide Ansil Saunders headed out for a typical day of great Bimini bonefishing and came back with a record 16-pound 3-ounce fish!
March marks the transition between the winter and spring fishing cycle. Cold fronts become “cool” fronts. The longer days slowly warm the waters. As a result, the fish will be spending more time on the flats seeking lunch. Shrimp, crab and the usual assortment of artificial baits will interest most fish. The bones will be generally in the 8 to 10 pound range. Both the Sound in North Bimini and the flats of South Bimini should be productive. Permit should be plentiful during March and in the 15 to 20 pound range along with the usual, snapper and barracuda to bend your rod. Nearshore, you will be able to get your share of yellowtail, lane and mutton snapper. If you are looking for a real taste treat, find yourself some triggerfish. If using dead bait, the best choice is squid. Early morning on a rising tide will be the most productive time of the day.
See you in the Biminis.