Nature Coast Fishing Report – April 2022

You never know what you’re going to catch this time of the year in our fisherman’s paradise here on the Nature Coast! Have you ever caught a Hogfish on a hook and line?  This is the perfect time of the year to give it a try. As the weather continues to get nicer and the Gulf water temperature continues to warm, it’s time to go offshore and target Hogs! The hardest part about catching this tasty member of the Wrasse family is getting your bait through all the Grunts/Key West Snapper. Captain Chappy’s Hogballs are the not so secret lure, if you haven’t tried them you’ll be happy the first time one hits the bottom! It’s always special to catch a species that you have never caught before and when you see your first Hogfish/Hog Snapper coming over the gunnel, it’s a pure adrenaline rush!! You’ll never forget your first Hogfish especially after dinner!! 

Cobia Fever is about to take over here in Old Homosassa! A few short “Brown Clowns” have already been caught and seen so the big beasts can’t be far behind! Cobia fever is when your passion becomes obsession! Last season was awesome and all indications are looking like we’re going to have another great year as they migrate North past our area. Always watch for rays or turtles as Cobia tend to follow closely looking for a free meal. The 38^th Annual Cobia Big Fish Tournament is June 4^th & 5^th out of Crumps Landing.

The Redfish bite will continue to be hot along the outside edges of rocky shorelines, most points and oyster bars. Try Reaction Innovations Skinny Dipper in the Money Shot Violet color for best results. Drifting the pristine flats of Citrus County will continue to produce Sea Trout with many “Gators” being caught over the 19 inch limit. The Trout are hungry and it really hasn’t matter what you toss to them, I’ve been using The Usual Suspects from H & H Lures, with my favorite flavor being the Opening Night with the Chartreuse tail. Though again they have been slamming everything we’ve thrown at them! This time of the year the very rocky Foul Area will hold Trout, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, Small Grouper (catch & release), Sea Bass, Jacks and Bluefish it’s time to be on the water and enjoying the outdoors!