Charlie Conner, Indian River, July

South Indian River July Fishing Forecast

 July Fishing Forecast

July has arrived and it brings hot weather, festive parties and some great fishing action to the Treasure Coast. Getting out early or late is a must to beat the heat of the day. Action will begin at first light and late in the evenings. Water temperatures are warm so look for docks and mangroves that provide shade to help the fish cope with the hot weather.

I like to fish docks and mangroves in July. Redfish like the shade and a DOA shrimp can help you hook up on a nice red. Docks are usually very productive all year for us. Top water lures are good to use early on the flats. There have been some nice trout this year and it’s a great way to target them on the grass flats. I am seeing lots of grass north of Fort Pierce and the schoolie trout have been thick. With snook season being closed, I generally try not to target them in summer.

There will be larger snapper in the river around structure and along channel edges. Bridges will be producing snapper, drum and sheepshead during July. Live or dead shrimp will be hard for them to resist. Watch the tides and fish the slower sides of them for best results. Whiting will continue to be in the surf with the occasional bluefish and Spanish mackerel. Sharks will be patrolling along the beach also. Watch for the glass minnow schools to flood into the river and you will find lots of action surrounding these tasty morsels! Jacks, Spanish mackerel and bonito are a few of the fish that love to feast on the glass minnows.

Fish deeper water as the sun warms things up. I like channel edges for a variety of species as the water temps get into the upper eighties. Incoming tides will bring in cooler water and that’s a good time to fish! Try Harbor Branch, Queen’s Cove and Bear Point this month for some good action. Enjoy fishing in July!

Remember, as always, fishing is not just another hobby……it’s an ADVENTURE!

Good Fishing,
Captain Charlie Conner

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