March 1, 2007
Inshore:
March has arrived on the Treasure Coast and most of us are hoping for nice warm weather after some of the cold fronts that visited us last month. Traditionally, we can expect windy conditions along with some rain clouds. It might dictate where and when you can get on the water, but at least we aren't cutting holes in the ice to fish! Take advantage of the good days and get out fishing.....
As the sun warms up the water again, look for fish to travel into the shallows to feed. Trout will continue to be most prevalent in the deeper grass flats in two to four feet of water. Those anglers using live shrimp on popping corks, soft baits and top water will have the best chance at hooking up with a trout. I like to fish the edges of the shallows where the water drops off to these depths. You can find some trout on the flats early, but they tend to go deeper after sunup. Depending on weather conditions, there are many areas to fish.
Redfish will get more active this month and you can find some tailing on the flats in early mornings. Top water, soft baits or gold spoons are good choices for finding a spot tail on the flats. Don't forget to fish around the mangroves also. So far this winter there has continued to be a good redfish population around the river and the fishing has been good for them. I tend to like the east side of the river for redfish, but you can find them on the west side also. Live shrimp or soft baits have worked very well for us in the past around these areas.
Anglers will continue to target snook around the inlets, docks and bridges on the Treasure Coast. Live bait always works best, but feather jigs and hard baits can also get you hooked up. Most of the action will be at night and at both ends of the tides. As the water warms up around the area, the snook action will liven up also. Those fishing the flats can also find snook feeding early or late in the day. Fish the mangroves during the rest of the day. Top water, twitch baits or soft baits can do the trick in March on the flats.
We are still wondering what happened to the pompano bite this year and hopefully we will get some in March. Both the river and beaches have been holding them, but not much on catch reports for now. Whiting. Bluefish and pompano will be hanging around the beaches this month. The inlet will be holding Spanish mackerel, jacks and bluefish. Jack Crevalle and ladyfish continue to haunt the river and provide fun catch for all. Bridges should give up catches of sand perch, sheephead and black drum on live or dead shrimp.
I think we are all ready for spring to arrive here on the Treasure Coast. It won't be long! Take some time to check all your equipment now and be ready as the weather improves to get out on the water. Make sure your reels are in good working order. Check your rods for broken or cracked tips and guides. How old in that line?? Get ready now on some of the windy days , so you will be ready to head out to the water! Have a great March for fishing!
As always, remember, fishing is not just another hobby....it's an ADVENTURE!!
Good Fishing and Be Safe,
Capt Charlie Conner
http://www.fishtalescharter.com/
email: captaincharlie@fishtalescharter.com
772-284-3852