[dropcap]S[/dropcap]pring is the time to hit the beach. Water temps start to rise and cold fronts are no more. Tarpon start to move from the south to the north. Tarpon will be found mostly at the inlets along the coast from Stuart to Fort Pierce. Incoming and outgoing tides will get the bite turned on. Big baits like mullet, pilchards and ladyfish will help you catch these big fish. As for lures, Yo-zuri Crystal Minnows will put you right on them with the 5.25-inch in black and silver the best color. Heavy leader like 60- to 80-pound should be used tied to 65-pound braid to get these big guys in. Snook bite will still be around the flats, bridges docks and piers. Best time will be at night around the lights. Anglers who put their time in at night will be successful. Pompano will soon be gone so get on the beach as much as you can. Cold fronts and deep blue water is what you are looking for. Best beaches to check out are Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach, Stuart and Tiger Shores. Spanish mackerel will still be everywhere and anything that shines will put you on them. The redfish and trout bite will be strong. A shrimp under a popping cork, like Cajun Thunder, will produce these fish. Flats, like west bank near the power plant, will produce these fish. Until next time, tight lines!
