Fishing Tips

St Johns River Fisheries

By David McKinney 03/07/2022 3 mins read

If you are interested to fish the St. Johns River but aren't sure how to catch monster sharks, striped bass or other fish, this article is for you. These are some tips to help you catch the largest monsters. Also, you'll learn about spawning as well as other fishing events on the river. Go fishing! Until next time! Just remember to bring the right bait and equipment! Here are the top types of bait that are most commonly used for St. Johns river fisherman.

St. Johns river monsters

Many stories are told about sea serpents lurking within the St. Johns River. Pinky the sea serpent, also known as Pinky is one of these stories. She has been sighted on several occasions. While there are no confirmed sightings, reports of the creatures vary greatly in description and time. Local media and local residents have collected these stories over the years. They have used a tongue in cheek approach to the subject.

These St. Johns river monsters look much smaller than the Jeremy Wade television footage, but they can still be tough opponents with the right tackle. These gear are already in the hands of most anglers. Jeremy Wade also uses a soaked chunk of cut bait. This is a simple and effective technique, but you don't necessarily have to use freshwater fish. To catch the St. Johns river monster you can use any saltwater bait left over, such a piece fish.

St. Johns river Striped Bass

The St. Johns river's headwaters provide excellent opportunities for angling, even though they have low water levels. Bass are attracted to the headwaters by the lack of nutrient rich water. Although there have been few trophy bass caught in the headwaters area, there have been some stragglers who have made the trip worthwhile. Changes in water levels and interference with hatching have led to a decrease in the number of bass living in this area.

The upper part of the St. Johns River often goes nearly dry during droughts. There are no boundaries or banks, which results in dense aquatic growth and endless marshland. It is difficult to navigate because the river is almost identical to Lake Poinsett or Lake Harney. A number of drainage arms make the river quite wide, making it difficult for anglers to fish.

St. Johns river shad

American shad are found along the east coast North America's east coast, from Canada's St. Lawrence River through Florida to Florida's St. Johns River. After spending their first year in rivers, the shad migrate to the ocean where they can mature for up to six years. Anglers await the next great American shad fishing trip in the St. Johns River.

Anglers can begin to fish for shad at the St. Johns River’s annual Shad Hatch. This runs typically starts around Christmas, and goes through mid March. Light tackle can be used to reel in shad. Shad are popular for their high-flying display and are great for beginners as well as experienced anglers.

St. Johns river spawning

The St. Johns River is north of the city and is a birdwatcher's dream. The ecosystem was once home to egrets which were almost extinct. Actually, feathers from egrets were worth a lot to the millinery. Today, this area is home to a variety of aquatic plants, including egret eggs, larva, and eggs. Cormorants often mark the banks of the river. Cormorants can fly quickly and are quick to spot small fish.

The river's water has a natural source for nitrogen, which is why it is tannic grey. There are also native species. However, invasive aquatic plants are a concern on the St. Johns. A variety of raptors call this area home. Red-shouldered hawks fly along the river. The water is grayish-tannic and the whitetail deer places her eggs along the banks.

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FAQ

How much is basic fishing gear?

Basic fishing equipment costs around $100-$200 dollars for rod/reel combos, bait, tackle box, etc. For a larger boat, you will need to pay between $500 and $1,000.

Are special clothing requirements for fishing?

Yes, you definitely need some type of clothing that protects you from the elements. When fishing, a waders outfit is worn. Waders are waterproof pants that cover the legs and feet. Wader suits are sometimes equipped with boots. Other waders suits are designed to be used without boots.

Do I require special fishing licenses?

You cannot unless you plan on taking fish out of the state or beyond county boundaries. Many states allow anglers fishing without a license. Check with your local Fish & Wildlife agency to see what is required.

Can I fish throughout the day?

You can fish at any time of the day. The only time you cannot fish is during times when there is a ban on fishing.

What amount of money can I spend on fishing equipment?

Fishing gear doesn't need to cost a lot. There are many options that are affordable. You could purchase a reel, line and hook for as low as $10. Or, you can invest in a high-quality rod and reel set.

Are there many types of lures available?

Yes, there is a wide range of lures. Some lures are made specifically for specific species of fish. Others are made to imitate insects, worms, frogs, crayfish, grasshoppers, etc. There are many sizes and shapes of lures. Some lures can even be shaped like real insects.

Statistics

Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
Orvis, Simms, and Fishpond have been making some of the best packs and vests for a long time, and it seems like 90% of the anglers around the area use these brands. (troutandsteelhead.net)
To substantiate this theory, Knight attempted a systematic inquiry by considering the timing of 200 'record' catches, more than 90 percent were made during a new moon (when no moon is visible). (myfwc.com)