Crystal River April Fishing Report
April is that transition month for us here in Crystal River and we’re starting to see a noticeable shift both inshore and offshore.
Water temps are climbing into the 70’s, and with that comes the first real push of our springtime migration. Cobia, kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and sharks have all started to show up in the area.
Inshore
On the inshore side, speckled trout have already made their move off the skinny water and onto the deeper grass flats. We’re consistently finding fish in that 8–10 foot range, and some are already setting up in their summertime areas. Clean water and good grass has been key.
Live shrimp under a cork has been hard to beat, especially on those windy days As the day goes on, switching over to artificials has been producing just as well. A watermelon flake Little John on a 1/8 oz jig head has been a go to, especially when you need to cover water and locate schools.
Offshore
We’re still seeing some hogfish & snapper hanging around in the 30–55 foot range. You’ll have to sort through a few grunts, but there are definitely keeper fish in the mix. Those grunts make for some good eating too!
Gag grouper fishing has been fired up. These fish are loving the warmer water temps and have been aggressive on just about everything we’re dropping down. Whether you’re fishing live bait or cut bait, if you’re around structure, you’ve got a good shot at hooking up. We’ve been seeing some quality fish coming over the rail lately.
Looking Ahead
May is when things really start to come together offshore.
Cobia are here, and we’ve already had some early season fish hitting the dock pushing 60+ pounds. These fish will start to show more consistently over the next couple of weeks. We’ll be kicking off our first dedicated cobia trips next week, and May through June is hands down the best time of year to target them.
Red grouper fishing really begins to shine in May as we move into deeper water. Look for that bite to get strong in 70+ feet. Big cut baits and live pinfish will be your best bet if you’re looking to put some serious meat in the box.
While you’re out there, don’t overlook dropping down some shrimp or cut threadfins. We’re seeing some really solid mangrove snapper in those depths, along with lane snapper, vermilions, and even the occasional yellowtail mixed in. It makes for a fun trip and a well-rounded cooler at the end of the day.
Red snapper season opens June 1st, and we still have a few openings available. That season fills up quick every year, so if you’ve been thinking about getting on the water for it, now’s the time to lock it in.
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