Fishing Forecast with

Cap T. paT ri C k Smi T h

Spring has sprung! Here is the inshore/nearshore forecast for April. Two major things tend to go on this month. First is the spring mullet run; this happens to be my favorite as there is less bait to compete with and the tarpon and snook that love to eat them are more concentrated in predictable areas. Typical rig of 60-80lb. mono on a heavy rod finished off with an 8/0 circle hook is about all you’ll need. Bridges, inlets, and the beach will all have plenty of fish. If you’re running the beach early in the morning, keep your eyes open for giant jack crevalle cruising in 10-20 feet of water, a top water plug with strong hooks is the ticket to landing one of these bruisers. As you head a little offshore this is a great time to pick up a blackfin tuna for dinner by trolling shiny feathers, cedar plugs, or even a high-speed jig dropped

It’s down to the wreck might provide a nice fish.

Second is in the freshwater, the first peacock spawn of the season is behind us, and they should be ready to eat. The nice part about this time of the year is that the bite seems to be great throughout the day. Catching everything the lake has to offer is the norm. Largemouth, peacocks, and clown knifefish should all be hungry and cooperative. The action in the northern Glades will be in full swing and 100+ fish mornings all on artificial will be very common.

Good luck out there!