November is one of the most exciting months to fish the Space Coast beaches. As water temperatures begin to fall and the first consistent cold fronts move through Central Florida, we start seeing a shift from the fall mullet run to the winter surf fishery. Pompano, whiting, bluefish and black drum become increasingly important targets, while jack crevalle, snook and sharks can still provide plenty of action.
The biggest attraction this month will be the arrival of pompano. Early in November, these fish may be scattered along the beaches, but cooling water temperatures can bring larger schools within casting distance. Keep an eye on the ocean temperature and water clarity, as both can help determine when the bite improves.
A standard double-drop pompano rig baited with Fishbites and fresh peeled shrimp is an excellent starting point. Sand fleas and clam strips are also worth having in your bait cooler. Bright floats can help attract attention, especially when the water is slightly stirred up.
Don’t overlook the first trough just because you’re eager to make a long cast. Pompano and whiting frequently feed close to shore, and the fish may be holding in the troughs between sandbars. Work different distances until you locate the bite, then concentrate your efforts where the fish are feeding.
One of the biggest factors in November surf fishing is water clarity. Clean green or blue water generally provides favorable conditions for pompano and other sight-feeding species. Strong northeast winds and rough seas can quickly change the picture, stirring up sand and bringing seaweed onto the beaches.
When conditions deteriorate, stay flexible. Look for stretches of beach with cleaner water and manageable surf rather than committing to one location all morning. Pay attention to the incoming tide, particularly when fish are moving into the shallower troughs to feed.
Whiting, croaker and smaller black drum can provide steady action while you wait for pompano to show. Shrimp and Fishbites combinations are productive options for these species, making a simple pompano setup a great choice for anglers of all experience levels.
Although the fall mullet run begins winding down, don’t put away your casting tackle just yet. Bluefish and jack crevalle can remain active along the beaches, especially when schools of baitfish are present. Snook and tarpon may also provide opportunities as seasonal conditions change.
Keep a seven- to eight-foot spinning rod rigged with a swimbait, jig or metal spoon. Watch for diving birds, fleeing baitfish and surface disturbances. Casting around the edges of a bait school can be more productive than throwing directly into its center.
For anglers targeting larger predators, cut mullet and other appropriate natural baits fished on heavier tackle offer another option.
November is all about adapting to changing conditions. Watch the weather, find clean water and experiment with different casting distances. With the winter pompano season getting underway, the Space Coast surf offers plenty of reasons to spend a morning on the beach.
Get out there, enjoy the cooler weather and keep those lines tight!
Capt. Lukas Brickweg
Cocoa Beach Surf Fishing Charters
cocoabeachsurffishingcharters.com
(321) 205-4672