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2024 Spring Fishing Report

By Forgotten Coast Web Team | March 19, 2024

Spring Fishing on Florida's Forgotten Coast

Weather: Spring brings warm and pleasant temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit (20s to 30s Celsius) and abundant sunshine with occasional showers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Explore the Forgotten Coast Waters This Spring

Spring marks the onset of an incredible fishing season on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, where both fish and fishermen alike come alive amidst the beauty of our coastal waters. Whether you prefer offshore adventures, inshore explorations, or casting your line from the tranquil shorelines, there’s something magical awaiting every angler.

Shore Fishing:

Witness the mesmerizing sight of anglers along our beaches shore fishing, likely targeting pompano or whiting, two prized catches during this season. While whiting grace our shores year-round, pompanos travel in schools, making their presence known during the spring months. Equip your tackle with FishGum, Sand Flea Fishbites, pink E-Z Shrimp, or fresh shrimp to entice these silver trophies. Optimal casting ranges between 15 to 25 feet towards breaks in the sandbars. As late spring unfolds, Silver Spoons become effective tools for reeling in mackerel.

Bay Fishing:

Venture into the tranquil bays of the Forgotten Coast for an unforgettable fishing experience. Navigate around oyster beds, breaks, and drop-offs to target trout, redfish, or flounder. Arm yourself with MirrOlures, Gulp Baits, or live shrimp to tempt these elusive beauties. For black drum and whiting enthusiasts, head towards the bird sanctuary and the remnants of the old bridge for promising catches.

Freshwater Fishing:

Embark on a serene journey along the Apalachicola River or the Carrabelle River, where bream and shellcracker await eager anglers. Arm yourself with crickets, worms, and a dash of patience, and witness the rivers teeming with life as your bait dances across the water’s surface. Franklin County offers unparalleled freshwater fishing opportunities that will exceed any angler’s expectations!

Offshore/Deep Sea Excursions:

Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping adventure as you set sail into the deep blue with offshore/deep sea fishing excursions. Grouper enthusiasts will find their nirvana with bottom rigs equipped with 8/0 Circle Hooks, baited with live offerings such as minnows or squid chunks. As the gag grouper season unfolds in April, prepare for bountiful hauls. For those targeting red snapper or lane snapper, employ chumming techniques with circle hooks and natural baits for fruitful results. Troll the waters with Rapala lures or an array of baits to entice king mackerel while keeping an eye out for cobia lurking around buoys and inlets.

Connect with Experienced Captains:

For an insider’s perspective and access to secret hotspots, consider enlisting the expertise of one of our seasoned Captains. Their knowledge and guidance will enhance your fishing experience and ensure a memorable outing.

Important Reminders:

Before embarking on your fishing escapade, ensure compliance with all licensing requirements and familiarize yourself with size limits, bag limits, and catch count regulations. Visit one of our local bait and tackle shops for additional information or consult the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website for comprehensive guidelines.

Embark on an unforgettable fishing journey along Florida’s Forgotten Coast this spring season. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice enthusiast, our pristine waters offer boundless opportunities for adventure and discovery. Start planning today!