Hook a Tarpon in the morning, grab some Shrimp for live bait, then head out to catch some Spanish Mackerel, before netting a Shark in the evening as you head back to port. No, we’re not describing a “what if” dream fishing day. We’re describing an average Sebastian Inlet fishing charter.

The Indian River Lagoon (a grouping of Mosquito Lagoon, Banana River, and the Indian River) is the most biodiverse lagoon in the entire Northern Hemisphere - with 10,000 species of plants and animals. The lagoon contains a number of state parks and wildlife refuges.

Sebastian Inlet is also known for its numerous crab population. These little critters skitter around the shores of the inlet and lagoon in large numbers. They offer a fun activity for kids and adults alike. Not to mention the tasty treats you get after an afternoon spent crabbing with the kids!

For anglers who’d like to know the backstory of one of Florida’s premier fishing spots, the Sebastian Fishing Museum is the right place. History of the fishing industry of the area, the people’s connection to the Indian River Lagoon, and a couple of local rigging tricks are all here. The museum is located at the Sebastian Inlet State Park.

The park offers fishing to its visitors from several jetties dotted around the shoreline. You can relax and cast a line - the usual catch is Snook, Redfish, Black Drum, Sheepshead, and Bluefish. Don’t get too comfortable though, as you can hook a Tarpon or Pompano! If you want to check what the weather looks like right now, check out the live jetty cam.

A veritable playground of different fishing techniques lies in the Indian River. Waders, stalkers pushing their skiffs with poles, kayak and canoe anglers in no-motor zones, and other fishermen frequent the area. Redfish, Snook, Black Drum, and other prestigious prey swim around in this bountiful lagoon. Snook can be found year-round.

A short jaunt (50 miles) from the Inlet, you can get abreast of the Gulf Stream and go after the big beasties of the blue depths. Cobia, Dolphins, Groupers, and Snappers are all present here. Sailfish zip by as well, making this area perfect for either trolling or bottom fishing.

Throw some fresh water into the salty mix and go after the raging river monsters - Tarpon, Redfish, monster Snook, Redfish, and Bass. The northern arm of the river is blocked off, providing for excellent practice grounds for anglers, while the southern end meanders naturally. The river is a no-wake zone, meaning you can drift or flyfish in peace and quiet.

Offshore fishing is where the trolling is at, with slow trolling for Wahoo and other pelagics starting right out of the inlet at around 90’ of depth. Further out at close to 120’ you start going for higher-speed trolling, your prey will be Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Sailfish. Trolling waters (depth around 100’) start approximately 15 miles from the Inlet.

Fishing from the jetties that dot the vicinity is incredibly popular, and for good reason - you can target Redfish, Snook, Black Drum, Tarpon, and other great fighters from the shore. Lookdowns (a species of Jacks, reaching around 12’’ in size) also frequent the jetty. Take advantage of the vast crab population in the area - Sheepshead, Black Drum, and Permit love that stuff!

Not far out from the inlet (about 10 miles out), between 60’ and 90’ of depth, is where the bottom fishing starts to shine. Mangrove Snapper, Goliath Grouper, Gag Grouper, and other picture-worthy fish live here. Live shrimp is a go-to bait for these fish, very few species can resist a tasty wiggling shrimp!

During the spring and summer, Redfish and Snook have the best bite at night, make sure to take advantage of that and grab yourself some strong coffee – although the adrenaline rush of a good fight will wake you up no problem!

The lagoon falls under saltwater fishing regulations so size and species limitations apply. Brackish waters tend to get confusing as they fall both under freshwater and saltwater licensing, so make sure to read up on the regulations before casting your line. You can buy the license online.

Due to the popularity of the jetties in the area, customers are advised to keep an eye on their gear, especially if you use multiple rods - wouldn’t want your rods wandering off into someone's truck!