Inshore:
March has arrived on the Treasure Coast and, 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! Water temperatures will continue to rise and the fish will be
actively feeding on the flats. Winter has been kinder to us in February and
the fishing has been very good so far. 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, Deadly Combos, CAL jerk 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 trout in
four to six feet of water and they will move onto the shallower flats to let
the sun warm them as the day goes on. Depending on weather conditions, there
are many areas to fish. Round Island, Bear Point and Harbor Branch are
always popular to fish in March.
Redfish will get more active this month and you can find some tailing on
the flats in early mornings. Top water, DOA shrimp, CAL grub tails 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
fantastic for them. I tend to like the east side of the river for redfish,
but you can find them on the west side also. Work your baits slowly along
the bottom for best results. This has been a good winter to allow us to
enjoy a terrific redfish bite around the docks and mangroves with nice sized
slot fish. Learn to read the water so you don't miss what is happening
around you.
Anglers will continue to target snook around the inlets, docks and bridges
on the Treasure Coast. Live bait always works best, but feather jigs,
TerrorEyz and BFL lures can also get you hooked up. Most of the action will
be at night with best results on the high 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. There has been a very good juvenile
snook population on the flats this year. Top water, twitch baits, TerrorEyz
or CAL jerk baits can do the trick in March on the flats.
The pompano bite started slower this year. They have moved in the river now
around Fort Pierce through Stuart and they should be in this area for a
while. 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. Spring is just around the corner 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 these windy days ahead, so you will be
ready to head out to the water soon! Have a great March in 2014!
As always, remember, fishing is not just another hobby....it's an
ADVENTURE!! Good Fishing and Be Safe,