Beach Fishing With Paul Sperco Palm Beach/Martin County Area

The weekend is upon us and do not think the wind and wave forecast for our local beaches is a mistake. It appears we are going to get a wind shift to the southwest and we should see improving conditions. I took a ride this afternoon after work and looked at Tiger Shores, Normandy, and Blue Heron and the weed situation that has kept the surf fishing almost impossible is definitely improving. The southwest flow should push the remaining weed patches offshore and make for some great surfcasting opportunities. Whiting, croaker, jacks, ladyfish, snook -which will become a catch and release species on Saturday, and tarpon should be roaming the St. Lucie and Martin County beaches. There will probably be a few pompano taken also but a lot of those will be undersized and have to be released. This is the time of year to have an extra rod rigged and ready to go with a 3/0 or 4/0 circle hook to liveline a live croaker for the snook and tarpon. Remember the snook will have to be released on June 1 so get them to the beach and back into the water as quickly as possible. As the water continues to warm and bait schools move down the beaches ,a ladyfish head fished on the bottom on a CP Rig or a sliding sinker rig will bring some unbelievable strikes from the tarpon that are moving into our local waters. Orange Clam, Bloodworm, Pink Shrimp Fishbites , along with cut shrimp will be the baits to use to catch a bunch of whiting and croakers for those looking for some great fish dinners. The whiting and croaker will be moving into the near shore trough so don't overcast these fish . 10 to 20 yards will be the area to fish so check your tide charts as the hours around high tide will produce the best action. Break out the 7 foot rods, sunscreen, a cooler with ice, Fishbites , and lots of water to keep you hydrated and get out and have some fun.