Spring on the Water
That’s right, it’s finally March. This officially starts spring. Time to dust off those rods and reels, charge the batteries and wash the boat (I hope you got it serviced). If you’re like me, I’ve been ready for some warmer weather and great fishing. Spring time fishing can be some of the best in our region. With the water temperatures climbing up, many migrating species will start showing up again. From inshore to offshore, the fish are on the move and ready to eat. On some recent offshore trips, we have been catching cobia, shark and some big bull redfish. Catching any redfish offshore is pretty exciting. With this, I’m already seeing the spring pattern begin to start.
As the water temperature slowly starts to climb up in March, look offshore for kingfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia, bluefish, grouper and sharks to start moving into our area. Another species that’s been very actively biting is the mangrove snapper. One of the best tactics for them is to use shrimp. For snapper you want to use a 2/0 hook with a small weight; or, try using a small bucktail jig with a piece of shrimp.
Another species still around is sheepshead. Using some of the same tactics I described for snapper will also work on the sheeps. Another small secret is to chum the areas you’re fishing. Chumming will help get a feeding frenzy going and attract more of the fish you’re looking for. This is probably one of the best times of year to go out and target these and many other fish. The weather is still cool, hopefully not too windy, and the water says clear.
Inshore fishing is off the hook right now. The redfish, trout and snook are all in the creeks and backwaters. We have a few areas here that are spring fed–these are also great spots. Look at the beginning and end of the high tide when the water is moving to find these fish more active. Using artificial like top water, sub surface baits or jerkbaits on a light jig head will produce fish. Also, use cut bait like mullet, pinfish, ladyfish or select shrimp. Very few fish will pass up these baits.
I’m always looking for reports and pictures. You can email me or stop by my website and become a “FISHHEAD.” Get out there on the water and make some memories with friends and family!