 |
Central Indian River Lagoon
Capt. Ron Bielefeld
February 1, 2003
Indian River Lagoon - Saltwater Fishing Report
Capt. Ron Bielefeld's Indian River Report - Sebastian Area
With warmer temps over the past few days water temps made it into the mid 60s by late yesterday. This warm up seemed to spur an increase in trout feeding. The best period was the two hours just prior to sunset. We boated 20 trout from noon until sunset with most of the fish coming late. The trout were in shallow water of 1-2 ft. over sparse grass. The clear water conditions (an unusual thing for this area) also probably contributed to the fish feeding as light intensity diminished late in the day. This pattern may hold until the water warms enough to allow algae to bloom. The trout hit DOA shrimp and Riptide weedless shrimp worked slowly along the bottom. As the last light of the day disappeared, some fish took top-water plugs, again, worked slowly. None of the fish we caught were monsters. Most were around the 15-inch minimum size limit. However, the big fish time is quickly approaching. When the water temp reaches 70 look out!
In addition to the trout, a few Spanish mackerel were feeding around the flats near the Inlet. We were able to boat only one but if we had pressed the issue I am sure we could have picked up a few more. These Spanish were on the small size and feeding on very small minnows. Consequently, they hit small jig and tails retrieved quickly near the surface.
If the weather continues to be warm as is predicted, the fishing should get better and better. However, as aforementioned, clear water conditions may make the fish reluctant to hit and spook easily. To combat this wariness, be very quiet. A good approach is to wade fish. Also, fish the low-light periods of the day, especially the last hour or so because water temps will be highest. The best colors to use in clear water seem to be chartreuse and pearl.
Until Nest Time, Tight-Lines to All!
Sincererly,
Capt. Ron
More Fishing Reports:
|
|
|
|
