Indian River

If you’re looking to experience some of the best inshore and backcountry fishing on the planet, we have three words for you: Indian River fishing. Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, and Spotted Seatrout rule over the lagoon fishing capital of the world – experience the thrilling action for yourself!

Arguably the most popular target when fishing the Indian River is Redfish. The bite is great year-round and can offer anglers diverse action, depending on the time of year. You can go after schools of small Redfish in the northern part of the river. Bull Redfish live closer to the south end. Spotted Seatrout is another staple of Indian River fishing – it’s great for novices and kids, and there are Gator Trout for seasoned anglers to hook into. Snook and Tarpon are also great targets, though they’re not as available as the abovementioned fish. You can still land a trophy-sized Silver King or Snook though, especially in Snook country, south of Sebastian Inlet.

The target list doesn’t stop here. There’s a wide range of species that stalk these waters like Jack Crevalle, Pompano, Black Drum, Tripletail, Groupers and Snappers, many different Sharks, and more. Check out the local captains’ Indian River fishing report to get the latest scoop on what’s biting. While you’re angling for these feisty fish you can also enjoy the great sights of nature that’ll surround you. The Indian River Lagoon is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world and there’s plenty of photo-worthy wildlife milling about.

The Indian River starts at Ponce Inlet in New Smyrna Beach and stretches out to the Port St. Lucie inlet. It passes through well-known fishing hotspots like Titusville, Port Canaveral, Fort Pierce, and many others!

The average depth of the Indian River Lagoon is about 4’ which means it’s prime real estate for underwater grasses. Crabs, shrimp, other crustaceans, and mullet love living on the flats – in turn, that attracts predators. The flats go wild in summer as mullet starts to spawn. Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, and Seatrout fishing is incredible during this time, so be sure to get in on the action.

The beautiful mangrove trees lining the coastline from Ponce Inlet to the south of Florida hold a wide range of critters in their roots. Mangrove Snapper, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Tarpon, Snook, and many other predatory fish stalk around these underwater structures. The mangroves hold vast quantities of crustaceans and baitfish, being even more productive than the grass flats. When the weather cools down you can find large fish warming up in the roots – the perfect place to aim your next cast at.

This is the place where small gamefish grow large and large gamefish forage for food. The salt marshes are even more shallow than the grass flats so most large gamefish can’t even swim there – instead, they stalk the edges. Areas near an inlet are subject to tides, which is perfect for the trophy-chasing angler. Baitfish will follow the retreating tide into deeper waters where the large gamefish stand ready, as well as the anglers. Winter fly fishing for Redfish around the marshes is an experience you shouldn’t miss out on!

The Indian River is generally very shallow and there are plenty of underwater structures with dredging happening only on the Intracoastal Waterway. If you’re taking your own boat make sure you’re slow and steady – you can easily damage your hull. Kayaking or poling around are the methods of choice for a lot of local captains.

Anglers aged 16-64 need a fishing license unless they’re fishing with a licensed captain or guide. Check out our guide on the Florida fishing license for more details. Many species have slot and bag limits, it’s best to check with local anglers to be up-to-speed with regulations.

U.S. Route 1 runs along the Indian River and is your best bet if traveling by car. There are numerous airports along the West Coast of the Sunshine State, as well as a large airport in Orlando. If you’re traveling via boat you can take the Intracoastal Waterway to reach the Indian River.

Anglers looking to spend 4 hours fishing the inshore waters of the Indian River should set aside between $300-$400, depending on the size of the boat. Full day trips going for Redfish, Snook, and other prime species will set you back between $400 and $600. The captains normally provide everything you need for a good day on the water like safety gear, tackle, and bottled water.

Whether you’re a novice weekend angler looking to sink your hook into a fish or a seasoned veteran chasing the next personal best, the Indian River has something to offer you! Record-breaking Redfish, Snook, Seatrout, and Tarpon are regularly caught in this locale – this year could be your year to shine.