[dropcap]H[/dropcap]ere we go, April is all about blue skies and some great fishing! And no jackets required this month! The migration north back to the barrier islands of Alligator Point over to St George Island is here! The schools of bait fish are back, and the hungry predator fish are close behind. From Spanish mackerel to cobia, they all will be roaming nearshore and be hungry! Also, look for redfish action to stay hot nearshore this month. March could be the end of the sheepshead bite, but donât be surprised if a big sheepie finds your shrimp this month also!
Our NW Florida coast is famous for its early migration of pompano, followed very closely by swarms of mackerel. Beach fishing will be hot this month. Throwing Gotcha lures into the surf will catch the macks and soaking sand fleas and shrimp will find the pomps. All beaches will produce, but the east cut of St George Island is the best bet. It has become famous for producing a solid April bite.
Alligator Harbor has been producing an awesome trout bite, with mixed in redfish. Also, look for GIANT redfish to roam the beaches. They will be extra hungry, and will attack almost any diving plug thrown their way.
Lanark reef will be swarmed by bait this month, and the trout bite will be great. It will be an awesome month to start throwing topwater baits around Turkey Point and the adjacent flats. The return of pinfish to the flats will have every fish hungry. Look for the incoming tide to be your best bet.
Ochlocknee Bay will be a great place to target trout on a high tide. Look for trout to be getting warm on top of the crazy maze of oyster bars off Bald Point. It is âcork crackingâ month.
It will be deadly once again. Pop a cork and jig combination in 6 foot or less for maximum trout action.
Cobia will also show up this month! The shallow offshore wrecks will be your target, but do not be surprised if you find a pack of big brown hungry cobes cruising the shallows. Bring your big spinning rod this month rigged with 40 pound test and a 1â2 ounce jig and jerk bait combination. My favorite color is white, and I prefer the 7 inch version.
Did I mention grouper season opens in state waters this month? This is the Big Bend mini season, thanks to FWC. Look for your local regulations online. There will be a bunch of awesome grouper caught in state waters this month. Dragging a deep diving plug in shallow waters will produce big fish!
April means way too many fish to mention. The plan is to get out and get in on the action. Warm days and hungry fish are coming! If you need to go catch a few, give me a call or text me and letâs hit the water. The kayaks are rigged and the skiffs are ready to roll!