Florida Fishing Report for:
Intracoastal Waterway, St Johns River and Nearshore Waters from Fernandina to Saint Augustine
Updated: March 2, 2007.
Inshore report
Recently, we've had a break from the cold weather. In the last few days the water temperature has approached 65 degrees in the shallow creeks and on the flats. That being said, I wouldn't be surprized if we get another cold snap before spring truly arrives.
The reds are cruising the shallows in the creeks at low tide. Sometimes they are reluctant to bite and can be very spooky. With all the fishing pressure, particularly on weekends, they are resembling Islamorada bonefish more each day. You can also find them along the edge of the ICW before the boat traffic gets rolling. Be stealthy; fish slowly, and be patient.
The trout bite was pretty good all last month. Now they are fair game once again. With the warming water, topwater plugs are worth trying early and late. Some yellowmouth trout are being caught near the jetty tips, but the bite is not as strong as in years past. Sheephead have slowed down some recently. Some fishermen attribute this slowdown to the clear water. The local El Cheapo sheephead tournament with 300 plus boats also put a significant dent in the population.
Lots of small bluefish are in the river and ICW. Most are too small to keep. The drum action has improved. I heard of a 67 pounder being caught recently. Drum fishing should improve through the month of March and into April. Crab, clams, and fresh dead shrimp are favorite baits fished deep near rocks and other structure. The flounder fishing in the creeks has been quite good, though they're difficult to target specifically. Fish the small runouts with mud minnows or Gulp baits.
Tight lines!
CAPT Bob Cosby
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Captain Bob's Fishing Charters,Inc.
http://www.captainbobsfishingcharters.com
