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 under way and soon the winds will die down, allowing us to can enjoy those calm days of summer 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. March was a little cooler, but the water is warming back up to suit the fish. As the river fills with bait schools, you can bet the fish are hungry and will be feeding heavily. Have fun!
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 top water lures and switch to jerk baits, like a D.O.A. CAL 4” Arkansas Glow or Watermelon. Shallow running Mirrolures will also entice the trout into biting. Don’t forget to use the Deadly Combo or CAL 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. D.O.A. shrimp or CAL grub tails in root beer or glow colors are great ways to find a redfish along with a trusty gold spoon.
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. Snook season will close May 1st so you have this month to find that slot fish. Docks will hold sheephead, jacks, redfish and many other species. I like either a D.O.A. shrimp or TerrorEyz 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 sheephead, 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. Ladyfish will be all over the river and keep the kids smiling. The inlet will continue to hold bluefish, jacks and mackerel. While April might be a little windy, it is still a great month to fish the Indian River. Surf fishing will yield whiting, bluefish, pompano and a variety of bait crashers.
April is the first month that fish can enjoy all the many baitfish schools and they will be feeding heavily on the schools around the flats. Early morning can bring lots of good results this time of year. The fish are anxious to enjoy some warmer water, and so are we!
As always, remember, fishing is not just another hobby, it’s an ADVENTURE!!