As March blows out of the area, you can still plan on some windy days ahead in April. The transition into the summer pattern is well under way and soon the winds will die down and you can enjoy those calm days once again. Expect the fishing to be especially good this April as the water temperatures have remained warmer this year and the fish have been active all winter. As the river fills with bait schools, you can bet the fish are hungry and will be feeding heavily.
Redfish and trout will be active around the flats. They will be shallow early and gradually move to the edges of the flats as the sun get higher in the sky. Look to areas like Bear Point, Harbor Branch and Round Island for trout to be feeding on the flats. On a calm morning, break out the topwater lures and switch to jerk baits, like a D.O.A. CAL 4” Arkansas Glow. Shallow running Mirro-Lures will also entice the trout into biting. Don’t forget to use the Deadly Combo or new Airhead for more exciting trout action on the grass flats. There has been a lot of redfish activity throughout March and it should make April a fantastic month. Redfish can be found on sandy flats around the docks or try the Moorings and Bear Point for a chance at a nice size red.
The snook season has many anglers out seeking that slot fish this year. The bite has been good around the inlets and will improve on the flats as well. Docks will hold sheepshead, jacks, redfish and many other species. I like either a D.O.A. Shrimp or Terror-Eyz around docks. Fish them slowly to keep them under the dock as long as possible. Drop a live shrimp or pinfish under a dock as well for a great chance at hooking up.
Bridges will continue to hold sheepshead, jacks, bluefish and some black drum. The big jacks will be invading the river this month. They are not great to eat, but provide a tough battle on light tackle. The inlet will continue to hold bluefish, jacks and mackerel.
As always, remember, fishing is not just another hobby….it’s an ADVENTURE!
FORECAST BY: Capt. Charlie Conner
Capt. Charlie’s Fish Tales Charters
Phone: (772) 284-3852
captaincharlie@fishtalescharter.com
www.fishtalescharter.com