mosquito lagoon redfish

Mark caught a bunch of redfish while they cruised within a few feet of the shoreline. His first “sight-fishing” experience was a real treat!

Today’s report is from several North Indian River Lagoon charters. I’ve recently abandoned the Mosquito Lagoon due to dirty water and less than stellar catches. I’m sure things will get back to normal soon, but for now I’m Indian River bound!

Other than some isolated areas, the water in the NIRL is fairly clean and in some areas ALMOST clear. In fact, on recent trips, first-time clients were able to see and sight cast to slow cruising redfish. Furthermore, the amount of finger mullet roaming the flats is scary impressive in the NIRL and will ensure a lasting Fall mullet run. The migration of Mosquito Lagoon silver mullet came quite early this year so it’s great seeing them in huge numbers in the Indian River.

Decent numbers of spotted seatrout are happily eating top-water plugs at first light in both popping and walking designs. Z-Man Pop Shadz and Tsunami K9 Walkers are catching fish for my people. When the surface bite dies we’re tossing three inch Minnowz rigged on Finesse Bullet Jigheads and scoring plenty of redfish and trout with an occasional flounder in the mix. Color hasn’t seemed too important, though we are offering Pearl, Mulletron, Sexy Mullet and Houdini, each giving good results.

Live shrimp free-lined under a popping float is working wonders for those who prefer using the real thing. Cut mullet is accounting for good trout and redfish numbers between the hard-head bites.

During this current New Moon cycle we’ve enjoyed a fantastic late morning bite from shoreline cruising redfish. Most are rats and some are slot sized and they’re all feisty; get out there and get you some!