Picture yourself fishing along the flats, approaching shallow mangrove lines, where tailing Redfish and lurking Snook are close by… That’s just a glimpse of what low tide fishing brings to the table.
Low tide fishing allows easier access to fish and bait, while also triggering feeding frenzies. While that may seem to mean that all you need to do is cast your line to be successful, there’s a little more to it…
I’ll break down everything you need to know about low tide fishing in this article. Get ready to learn the theory behind it, the species you can target, and some tips from my own experience. When you’re done reading, you’ll be ready for a thrilling low tide fishing adventure!
What is low tide fishing?
Simply put, low tide fishing is the act of fishing during a low tide. This is when the water recedes and you’ll be able to spot the bottoms and some structure in the water. Low tides vary throughout the day, often changing depending on the current moon phases. It’s best to fish a low tide when the current is still flowing pretty good, whether it’s incoming or outgoing, especially near its peak.
Low tides can occur in the middle of the night, at sunrise or sunset, in the afternoon… Well, pretty much anytime It will change throughout the month. You can also notice small depth changes or big ones. Sometimes it will be a slight heighten while, at other times, it could be a dramatic drop.
But in general, low tide fishing is a chance to catch some hungry fish and explore a world that’s usually hidden underneath the waves.
Why go low tide fishing?
As mentioned in the previous section, low tide fishing is a great time to make a trip out on the water because feeding frenzies are common. When the current is flowing at low tide, bait will be pushed around and nutrients from the bottom rise up. Therefore, the fish get a little feisty. It’s an excellent time to throw live bait or some lures in there!
Another benefit of low tide fishing is that you can access areas you couldn’t reach as well before. If you’re fishing from land, you’ll have more ground to walk on to reach further and deeper waters. In addition, areas where structure may have been an obstacle are now reduced. And sometimes, holes become shallower allowing for more chances of finding and getting bait, as well as fish strolling the shoreline.
What species can I catch at low tide?
There are quite a few species you can expect to find and hook up to during low tide fishing. These will vary depending on where you are in the world, but I’ll share with you a few examples from my home state of Florida. These fish are also common along a lot of the Atlantic coast!
Redfish
Known for their gorgeous red, gold, and pink tones, Redfish are also popular for their strong fights. Truly a remarkable fish – and one of my favorites to catch – they enjoy low tide voyages. In fact, they’re known for “tailing” where they stroll in shallow water in search of food while their tail sticks out! You’ll find them in mangroves, flats, and around oyster beds – and low tide only increases the chance of a catch.
Snook
Another popular game fish you can find lurking around the shallows are Snook. In similar habitats to Redfish, these fish tend to stick to where they can hide, so be ready for a battle of wits. Feed them pilchards, shrimp, mullet, and some flashy and colorful lures, and they’ll be willing to bite with abandon.
Spotted Seatrout (aka Speckled Trout)
Saltwater Trout simply love the shallows. And these guys definitely like to hang around when low tide is here, looking for any treats they can get! They’re also common around mangroves and oyster beds, but they also like open waters near points or bays. Target them during low tide, where they’ll be hungry chasing after the bait fish that are washed up.
Flounder
If you’re looking for something more unique, Flounder are pretty cool to catch when low tide fishing. Their flat bodies and polka-dotted sides make them stand out compared to other species, but they’re pros at hiding. Sometimes you may even see them on shore due to the low waters! If you do see one beached, I suggest you gently place it back in the water. That way you can target it with a rod and reel! They like to eat bait off the bottom but be ready for a hard hookset due to their big strikes.
How to Go Fishing at Low Tide
In need of some tips? I’ve got you covered! Stick to a setup between 3–5K – I like bigger in case any large Snook or other big fish strike – and use a fluorocarbon leader of 30 pounds and up. A lot of saltwater species have sharp teeth and you’ll also have to navigate structure frequently, so you want something a little durable. I also opt for a 3/0 circle hook, but bring along some larger hooks in case you come across some big ones.
When it comes to bait, I always tend to lean towards live bait, such as mullet, pilchards, shrimp, and crabs. Cast your bait near structures, fish beds, holes, and drop-offs, and along shorelines and points, especially where current is flowing.
The same goes for artificial lures, however each one will have its own technique. When low tide fishing, swimbaits, topwater spoons, and imitation plastics are most effective. Try jerking topwater lures with zig-zag motions and pauses, while you’ll want to jig and pause swimbaits and plastics on the bottom. The whole point is to make your lure appear realistic. Choose any style you prefer with some color or flashiness – and there are bonus points if it has odor!
Low Tide Fishing FAQs
Low Tide Fishing: Make the Most of It!
By now, you should be ready to approach your low tide fishing trip with ease. As I’ve mentioned throughout the article, I suggest you spend some time exploring the tidal zone. Once you know when to go, make the most of the tips I shared and get fishing!
Are you a keen low tide angler? What do you like catching? Maybe you have a question. Leave a comment and get in touch!
