Spring Time Fishing
Capt. Joel Gant
February 11, 2017
Hernando Beach - Saltwater Fishing Report
That's right its finally March. This officially starts spring. If you're like me, I've been ready for some warmer weather and great fishing. Spring time fishing can be some of the best in our region. Look for many migrating species to start showing up again. From inshore to offshore, the fish are on the move and ready to eat. On some recent offshore trips, we have been catching some cobia, shark and some big bull redfish. With this, I'm already seeing the spring pattern beginning to start.
As the water temperature slowly starts to climb up in March, look offshore for kingfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia, grouper and sharks to start moving into our areas. Another species that's been very actively biting is the mangrove snappers. One of the best tactic for them is to use shrimp. For the snapper you want to use a 2/0 hook with a small weight, or try using a small bucktail jig with a piece of shrimp. Another species still around are sheephead. Using some of the same tactic I described for snapper will also work on the sheeps. Another small secret is to chum the areas your fishing. Chumming will help get a feeding frenzy going and attract more of the fish your looking for. This is probably one of the best times of year to go out and target these and many other fish. The weather is still cool, hopefully not too windy and the water says clear.
Inshore fishing is off the hook right now. The redfish, trout and snook are all in the creeks and backwaters. We have a few areas here that are spring fed, these are also great spots. Look at the beginning and end of the high tide when the water is moving to find these fish more active. Using artificials, like top water, sub surface baits or jerkbaits on a light jig head will produce fish. Also use cut bait like mullet, pinfish, ladyfish or select shrimp. Very few fish will pass up these baits.
Get out there on the water and make some memories with friends and family!
I'm always looking for reports and pictures. For more information or questions, you can email me or stop by my website and become a "FISHHEAD".
Capt. Joel operates Fishdaddy Charters out of Hernando Beach, he knows the local waters like the back of his hand, and works both inshore and offshore trips. You can reach him at (352) 279-1615 or visit his website, www.fishdaddycharter.com
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