January 2020 Fishing Report for the Sebastian Inlet Area
February and March have been a constant metamorphosis in weather conditions. Spring-like conditions followed by winter blows and rapid temperature drops are making the fishing challenging.
When the weather cooperates for a few days, the fishing is fun with trout, pompano and some monster snook showing on the shallowest parts of the lagoon.
I’ve taken an unusual break from the Mosquito Lagoon as an algae bloom has been plaguing the sight-fishing conditions, making it difficult to find find fish unless they are tailing. Sebastian has proven to be a great alternative and the whole area is teeming with bait and the gamefish are wanting to cooperate between weather fronts.
NOTE: The Sebastian River is holding good numbers of tarpon for the anglers willing to stalk this elusive winter resident. It’s a cat-and-mouse game, but we’ve managed to jump a handful one afternoon.
Sea Trout are Showing Off
Sea trout are dominating the fishing on the shallowest parts of the Indian River Lagoon between Sebastian State Park and the mainland. The largest sea trout can often be found in the shallowest flats and adjacent sandbars and spoil islands.
Live bait and artificials work well with sea trout, I find that live pilchards and mullet often trick the larger trout better than artificial lures. A persistant caster will often take larger numbers of fish with artificial lures.
Snook Season is Closed
Spring Snook Season will Open February 1st in 12 more days.
Captain Richard Bradley
Charter Fishing Captain/Guide
Being a husband and father to three incredible women my life overflows with joy. As a lifelong resident and third generation Floridian, my passion is not only my family but the outdoors. It has been a great pleasure to take my family, friends, and customers on fishing excursions on Florida's east coast where I grew up for over five decades.
I love sharing my experiences and writing about my knowledge of where I live and often mix in my opinions and journeys. Please feel free to comment on my writings and express your views and experiences as well.
Berkley Gulp! Shrimp
When all else fails to produce a fish bite, I often pull out the Gulps. My favorite colors are New penny and pearl white, but don’t put too much thought into colors. A proper presentation and a hungry fish will most often get the bite.
-Captain Richard
