The Best of Shallow Water Fishing in Florida

Angling may be so like the mathematics that it can never be fully learned. " Isaac Walton once said when describing his own fishing experience. Catching or missing that trophy fish can make or break any anglers day in shallow water fishing.

One good resource for shallow water fishing is http://www.Stay-Put-Fishing.com where anything from shallow water fish to shallow water boats can be found.

Florida is the top coastal fishing state harboring many varieties of shallow water fish due to its average water temp. of 70 degrees. An abundance of shallow water fish can be found amongst tidal creeks, mangroves, and grass beds, hence the name Mangrove Snapper. The Indian River Lagoon and Halifax River host scores of pumps, bass, flounder, and sheepshead. Snook, redfish, pompano and trout inhabit our Intracoastal waterways and bridges. It is a fisherman's paradise with rivers sheltering rich oyster beds, abounding mud, shell bottoms, grass beds, bridges, and countless docks luring numerous fresh water friends.

Seeking the right gear for shallow water fishing can be time consuming. Your best bet is to latch on to an experienced fisherman at the bait shop. Here you'll find how Lipless vibrating crankbaits are favorites among many bass pros for combing large stretches of shallow water. He may even share that Spinnerbaits work best on windy days because the wave action scatters the lure's flash and gives the appearance of a more realistic fish.

For those days when nothing seems to be biting, a Jig-and-pig is a good choice for probing dense shallow waters when it is murky or muddy. In fresh water springs, floating lures entice fish best. When fishing in shallow cover try buzzbaits, prop baits and poppers if it is early or late in the day. Yet, Grubs have to be one of the best lures you can use for smallmouths.

Shallow water flat boats are a must for transportation. A flat bottomed hull is able to run smoothly and efficiently. It houses a trolling motor and will float in the shallowest of all rivers and waterways. It might not offer the performance of a v-hulled craft, and the ride might be wetter, but there's an abundance of storage space for fishing equipment.

The shallow water anchor drives an upper arm to a raised position, and engages a push pole to keep the bottom out of shallow water. Using shallow water anchoring, provides a minimum amount of damage to sea life, including oysters, and grasses or other vegetation growing on the bottom of the water.

Shallow water fishing entices all types of fisherman. Great anglers come prepared.