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Central Indian River Lagoon
Capt. Ron Bielefeld
October 20, 2002
Indian River Lagoon - Saltwater Fishing Report
Capt. Ron Bielefeld's Indian River Report - Sebastian Area
South Florida experienced its first cool front of the fall this past week. Water temps have dipped into the mid-70s and the bait run is in full swing. You cannot ask for better fishing conditions. Trout have been hitting top-water plugs with gusto through 11:00 am, and DOA shrimp later in the day around structure. Most of the trout have been keeper size with a few gators thrown in for good measure. Find bait (which is not too difficult right now) over shallow grass and stay to the outside of the pods to maximize the chances of your quarry picking your bait over the thousands of natural baits. Using a noisy presentation also ups the odds.
We have been finding a few reds on the flats, but the boat traffic has made it difficult to stay on these fish for very long without them being spooked. If you are looking for reds search the back water areas now that the water levels are up. Many people will not stray into these areas to stay away from the crowds. We have been taking a few fish along mangroves as well. If you find the fish feeding on mullet on the flats, try a top-water plug. If you are fishing the mangroves pitch a DOA shrimp or soft plastic jerk bait. The light glow colors have been the most productive given the murky water in the Sebastian Area.
Snook have been hitting mullet and greenies along the mangroves and other structure early and very late in the day. A few fish have been taking during the afternoon as well, but the action has been very inconsistent. Top-water plugs and DOA shrimp have been productive. Work the baits slowly near feeding fish or fishy looking structure, and you probably will not be disappointed. Make sure you are using 20 lb or slightly heavier leader material for the linesiders. If you don’t, you will be disappointed when that 15 lb snook cuts your fight short.
In addition to trout, reds, and snook, the jacks and ladyfish have been all over the place. Just look around a bit on the flats and long the mangroves and it should not take you long to see them busting bait. To have a blast, pitch a top-water spook into the fray. You will not only catch your share of jacks, but you may even catch two at a time. Please, when you are moving around on the flats, take care not to rip up the grass. The grass does not grow back quickly if at all. Remember, if the habitat is destroyed there will be no fish! Use a trolling motor, push pole, or just drift into position.
Tip of the Week: Think boat position when you are fishing a school. If you pay attention to how you approach and position yourself you can double the number of fish you can catch out of a school. A good trolling motor or push pole can make the difference.
Until Next Time, Tight-Lines To All.
Sincerely,
Capt. Ron
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