St. James City-Late April

AlloyToy

Hello folks,

Wife an I are going on our week long trip a bit later this year due to family obligations. I have never fished the area this late in the season. Has always been early March. What should I pack for gear, and what can I expect to catch? Years past it's been trout, Spanish Mackerel, and some Sheepshead mainly in the shallow grass areas around Chino.

Does the whole fishing scene change later on in the spring???

Thanks in advance for your help.

NoreastSalt3295

Tarpon will be close by on the edges of the flats and by the powerlines. Bring a heavy spinning set up that can hold 300 yards of 50 lb braid. Also big snook and reds under the mangroves and in the passes, catch whitebait on the flats and fish the edges of the mangroves and passes with a 4000 sized reel and medium action rod. Arguably the best time of year to fish here.

AlloyToy

Thanks!! I appreciate that info. Will Spanish Mackerel still be around over by Sanibel beach? Wife loves catching them on spoons.

NoreastSalt3295

Probably, just run the beaches and look for birds or troll some spoons to find them. They can be by the causeway or lighthouse as well as on the flats.

AlloyToy

As our trip moves closer it's looking more and more grim Our flight from the northeast is in jeopardy now so we are still anticipating going and driving to SW FLA

What is the current situation in the area? Is everything closed down? Selfish side wants to go but the realistic side is saying there is always next year.

NoreastSalt3295

Bars and restaurants are closed, only pick up and delivery available. Bait stores are closing their doors, and some cities are implementing lockdowns. Not to get political, but I can't imagine we will be in any better shape by the end of April with the way it is being handled. 
Fishing is great though, good thing I stocked up on hooks before this hit! 

Capt Dan Medina

AlloyToy said:

As our trip moves closer it's looking more and more grim Our flight from the northeast is in jeopardy now so we are still anticipating going and driving to SW FLA

What is the current situation in the area? Is everything closed down? Selfish side wants to go but the realistic side is saying there is always next year.

As much as I hate to say it, your better off staying home this time around.  Bars and restaurants are shut down, as are all non essential businesses. Not a great time to vacation here. Many places have shut down the boat ramps and public beaches and parks. It will get worse before it gets better.  

Lostconch

Depending what state you come from you could be in quarantine for 14 days also

AlloyToy

Thank you very much folks. Everyone stay safe and healthy!