| Here in Florida, there is an abundant supply of saltwater flats - shallow bodies of water with grass, sand, or mud bottoms. These flats can be part of the ocean near the shore, such as in the Florida Keys, or they may be inshore bays or Lagoons. Flats fishing involves fishing these shallow water areas and can be done by wading, in a boat, or by paddle craft. Most of the fishing is done is water less than three feet deep, often at half that depth. Here in east Central Florida, the most popular areas for flats fishing are Mosquito Lagoon, the Indian River Lagoon, and the Banana River Lagoon. Flats fishing these lagoons is commonly done with flyrods or light tackle spinning gear. Redfish (also known as red drum and channel bass), spotted seatrout, and black drum can be targeted all year round on the flats in central Florida. Seasonal species can include tarpon, snook, jack crevalle, flounder, snapper, and a variety of other fish. Flats fishing offers the angler several advantages. First, you can target large saltwater game fish in shallow protected waters. I have not had a client ever get seasick on a flats fishing charter. For the angler looking for some added excitement, you can also sight fish the flats which involves stalking the fish in clear shallow water and casting to fish you can see. While a boat is certainly not required to go flats fishing, those that do fish from a boat usually own type of skiff known as a flats boat. These vessels are designed to be ables to float and run across the shallow waters where the fish feed. Many are equipped with a platform above the motor where one person stands and propels the boat silently towards the fish with a long fiberglass or graphite push pole. The platform not only makes pushing the boat easier but its height offers better vision and aids in spotting fish. Whether fishing from a boat or wading, stealth is an important factor in flats fishing. Fish that are in shallow water are on high alert for danger and any unnatural noise can easily spook them. Talking does not bother them but noises on the deck of the boat from squeaky shoes or fishing rod butts commonly do. If you are interested in a flats fishing charter or want to learn how to fish the flats, I offer fully guided fishing charters in the Mosquito Lagoon and Indian River Lagoon. I provide all licenses, baits, and fishing tackle along with patient and professional instruction. The flats fishing here in Florida is excellent all year long. Look here for information on booking a Fishing Charter in the Mosquito Lagoon. Flats fishing is fun for people of all ages and skill levels, If you are an avid angler, I am certain you will enjoy your flats fishing experience! |
What is Flats Fishing? - Flats Fishing Information
Redfish are commonly caught
while flats fishing in Florida
while flats fishing in Florida
The saltwater flats of Mosquito
Lagoon offer great fishing all
year long
Lagoon offer great fishing all
year long
A flats fishing boat allows
anglers to get to the shallow
grass flats
anglers to get to the shallow
grass flats
| Florida Flats Fishing Charters with Capt. Chris Myers Full Time Fishing Guide Light Tackle Inshore and Backcountry Licensed and Insured |
| Central Florida Sight Fishing Charters Saltwater Flats Fishing Guide Mosquito Lagoon and Indian River Fishing Trips 321-229-2848 |