Inshore Fishing Seasons & Species

Inshore fishing on the historic coast is a year-round experience. Many species like Redfish, Black Drum, Flounder, and Sea Trout can be caught all year. Other species like Sheepshead, Pompano, and Mangrove snapper are caught more commonly during specific seasons. 

Our inshore fishery ebbs and flows based on water temperature, tides, and various other reasons. Anglers can rely on bait shops, social media, and insider tips (like this one) to keep them updated on the current inshore fishing situation. 

While these species can be caught throughout the year, these are the most common times to target each one.

Flounder: A unique fish that many people love to target. The best times to target them is in the spring, summer, or fall when the mullet are thick! They typically feed along creek mouths, oyster bars, or mudflats when the water temperature is above 70 degrees.

Mangrove Snapper: Turn up the temp and get ready for fish tacos! These fish love warm water and pair well with warm tortillas. During the peak of summer, Mangrove Snapper are the most targeted species. They are aggressive, fun to catch, and perfect for the table. A live shrimp, mud minnow, or small mullet is the bait of choice around oyster bars and dock pilings.

Redfish: One of the most popular species caught in town! Redfish are notorious for their drag-screaming fights, heavy hits, and delicious table-fare. St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra provide a great fishery all year with peak times in the fall, winter, and spring. The fall mullet run sparks one of the best times to target them.

Speckled Seatrout: When the water cools off to less than 75 degrees in the fall, our trout fishery gets going. It lasts throughout winter and gets very good again in the spring before the temperature heats up. A live shrimp or live mullet under a bobber is on the menu for this species. 

Sheepshead: Much more common in the colder months, these fish are another fantastic meal to add to the table. They hang around structure feeding off crustaceans like Fiddler Crabs, Mud Crabs, and barnacles. Water temperatures below 75 degrees are ideal. 

There are many other species that can be pulled from the Mantanzas River including Florida Pompano, Black Drum, Jack Crevalle, and Tarpon. Most of the time you will not be limiting yourself to just one species when you’re fishing your favorite spot in town! Nearly every species is subject to regulation through the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission. Be aware of the laws and licensing requirements for each species before going fishing!