Down Sea Charters: Sailfish Bite Gets Hot in Winter
Perhaps the most unique qualities of Florida include the consistently warm climate and a geographic environment surrounded by water on all three sides. While Florida has a mild winter climate as opposed to many other states in the U.S., temperature has a significant impact on our fisheries. On the Treasure Coast, the Indian River Lagoon has an average depth of 3.5 feet. If the ambient air temperature drops 10 to 15 degrees overnight, the water temperature will almost drop at exactly the same rate. This sudden shock in temperature variation can have multiple effects on the productivity of certain species.
Warm water species such as a tarpon and snook can be very challenging to catch. However, other species thrive in cool temperatures like pompano, sea trout and redfish. The world record pompano was caught right here in Vero Beach, so it stands to reason that some of the best fishing for this tasty species is right in our own backyard. The Treasure Coast also has a great offshore fishery when the temperature drops. One of the most productive fisheries during winter is the annual migration of sailfish off our coasts. Like a lot of things in life, timing is everything. Statistically, December through February is the most productive time of year to target these unique, highly sought-after fish.
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Written by Sam Atwell / Photography by Cameron Cushman