March 2025 Fishing Report
March is an excellent month for anglers looking to complete the inshore slam. Snook, redfish, and trout will be actively gathering on the flats in search of baitfish. With rising water temperatures, fish will need to feed more frequently as their metabolism increases. Are you looking for a thrilling fishing experience in Tampa Bay? Snook is a prized game fish known for its aggressive fight and delicious taste. However, be aware that Snook has strict catch limits and seasonal closures, so always check regulations before heading out. What is a Snook? Snook are saltwater fish belonging to the Centropomidae family, which includes 12 recognized species—five of which are found in U.S. waters. These species vary in size and scale structure. The most sought-after is the Common Snook (Centropomus undecimalis), also known as Robalo or Sergeant Fish. Snook can grow up to 44 pounds and primarily feed on small fish, shrimp, and crabs. They are protandric hermaphrodites, meaning they are born as males but some transition into females between the ages of 1 and 7 years. Snook are easily recognizable by their distinct black lateral line and golden-yellow fins. Handling Tip: Always grab Snook by the mouth, as their razor-sharp gill covers can cause serious injuries. Types of Snook Found in Florida Waters: Common Snook Small-scale Fat Snook Large-scale Fat Snook Swordspine Snook Tarpon Snook Where to Find SnookSnook are highly adaptable to various salinity levels, often traveling into brackish estuaries and even venturing into freshwater. They are commonly found near bays, docks, seawalls, bridges, jetties, and shallow beach waters, particularly in Southern Florida. During the summer months, Snook gather in large schools to spawn in deep passes and inlets. Best Fishing Spots for Snook John’s Pass Clearwater Pass Canals, creeks, and river mouths They are typically found in water shallower than 60 feet, and the best time to fish is at night, especially during the peak of a full moon. How Does Snook Taste? Snook meat is white, firm, and flavorful—not as delicate as trout but not as dense as swordfish. It’s recommended to remove the skin before cooking, as it has a soapy taste, earning Snook the nickname “soap fish.” Simply season the fillet, marinate it, and refrigerate before cooking. Snook Fishing Update Water temperatures have risen into the 70s, causing an increase in fish activity. Large Snook (30-40 inches) have been caught frequently in recent weeks. Best bait: Big whitebait and live sardines. Best locations: Mouths of creeks, canals, and rivers. Note: Small cold fronts may briefly slow the bite, but fish quickly become active again as water temperatures rise. Other Target Species This March Redfish: Large schools are starting to appear. Best bait: Sardines, pinfish, and chumming. Trout: Abundant throughout spring. Best bait: Shrimp and whitebait. Additional Fishing Report: Pinellas County March is a prime time for fishing in Clearwater, Florida, thanks to warm water temperatures and active fish. Top Fish Species in March Snook – Found near beaches, in the Intracoastal Waterway, and in bays. Redfish – Excellent bite throughout March. Spotted Seatrout – Active and plentiful. Flounder – A solid catch this time of year. Spanish Mackerel & Trout – Common and great for table fare. Best Fishing Locations Near beaches Intracoastal Waterway Bayous, passes, and bays Fishing Tips Fish during early morning or dusk for the best action. Look for schools of whitebait, which attract larger fish. Offshore Fishing in March Mahi & Sailfish: Expected to arrive late in the month. Bottom Fishing: Remains steady unless large swells occur. Why March is a Great Time to Fish Florida’s waters warm up earlier in the year, creating ideal fishing conditions for many species. March Fishing Report: Ormond Beach/Volusia County March fishing in Volusia County offers excellent opportunities for Redfish, Snook, Spotted Seatrout, and Flounder. Surf fishing for Pompano and Whiting is also productive. Key Fish Species & Locations Redfish: Found in Mosquito Lagoon on shallow mud flats and sand holes. Snook: Found along deeper shorelines and near structures. Spotted Seatrout & Flounder: Best caught in warmer waters. Best Fishing Locations Mosquito Lagoon – Redfish, black drum, and trout thrive here. Banana River Lagoons – Redfish, speckled trout, and Snook found along mangrove shorelines. Sebastian Inlet – Great for Snook and Redfish near docks and mangrove structures. Best Baits for March Fishing Live sand fleas Shrimp pieces Clam strips Live croakers & pilchards Saltwater Assassin Vapor Shad Cut bait & live mullet Regional Offshore Fishing Report King Mackerel action is picking up on 70-90 foot reefs. Best bait: Live bait if available, but frozen Spanish mackerel, cigar minnows, or mullet work too. Snapper species such as Lane, Mangrove, and Mutton Snapper are common at these depths. Other species to target: Triggerfish, Cobia, Yellowfin Tuna, Blackfin Tuna, and Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) on the eastern side of the Gulf Stream. Ponce Inlet Inshore Fishing Redfish & Black Drum (up to 10 lbs) are abundant on Mosquito Lagoon flats. Tripletail fishing remains strong near shipping channels, with live shrimp and pilchards as the best bait. Speckled Trout & Snook are active around mangrove shorelines in the Indian River Lagoons.
