Jacksonville, Florida

What's biting

• Spotted Seatrout

  Where: Shallow grass flats and creek mouths in the St. Johns River estuary, Intracoastal Waterway, and tidal creeks around Ortega River and San Marco Avenue area.

  Early fall is prime seatrout season as water cools slightly. Work shallow flats at dawn and dusk with topwater plugs or soft plastics (3–4 inch mullet imitations) in 0.5–1.5 m (2–5 ft) of water; sight-cast to cruising fish or work structure edges.

  Caution: Seatrout are catch-and-release only in some areas; verify current regulations with FWC before keeping any fish.

• Red Drum (Redfish)

  Where: Shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and tidal creeks throughout the St. Johns estuary and Intracoastal; concentrate on areas with oyster bars and marsh edges.

  September redfish are aggressive and feed throughout the day. Use live mullet or shrimp under a popping cork in 0.3–1.2 m (1–4 ft) of water, or sight-cast with soft plastics to tailing fish in ultra-shallow water.

  Caution: Size and bag limits apply; check FWC regulations for current slot limits before fishing.

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: Freshwater sections of the St. Johns River, Lake Eutis, and numerous retention ponds and small lakes in the greater Jacksonville area.

  Early fall sees bass moving to deeper structure as water warms; fish early morning and late evening around cypress trees, fallen timber, and deeper channels (1.5–3 m / 5–10 ft). Use dark-colored soft plastics or crankbaits.

  Caution: Florida has specific size and bag limits for bass; consult FWC before keeping any fish.

• Spanish Mackerel

  Where: Nearshore waters and inlet areas (Mayport Inlet, St. Augustine Inlet) where baitfish congregate; also accessible from jetties and piers.

  September mackerel are active in warm water. Cast small shiny spoons (1/2–1 oz / 14–28 g) or live mullet; work moving water and baitfish schools, especially around tidal changes.

  Caution: Spanish mackerel have sharp teeth; use a short wire or heavy fluorocarbon leader to prevent bite-offs.

• Sheepshead

  Where: Pilings, jetties, bridge supports, and oyster bars throughout the Intracoastal and St. Johns estuary; abundant around the Mathews Bridge and San Marco areas.

  Sheepshead are year-round residents and bite well in fall. Use small pieces of shrimp or fiddler crabs on light tackle; fish tight to structure and expect a delicate bite—set the hook at the slightest tap.

  Caution: Sheepshead have crushing jaws and sharp spines; handle carefully and check FWC for size/bag limits.