Spring Fishing in St. Augustine: The Best Spots & Seasonal Catches

Reel in the season’s best with this guide to spring fishing in St. Augustine, Florida.

There’s no better time than spring to cast a line in St. Augustine. As the weather warms and the tides shift, both seasoned anglers and casual fishers flock to the Intracoastal, salt marshes, and the open Atlantic in search of unforgettable catches. Whether you’re dropping a line off the pier or heading out on a charter boat, spring fishing in St. Augustine offers a unique blend of variety, challenge, and natural beauty. Let’s explore the top fishing spots, seasonal catches, and expert tips to make the most of your spring fishing adventures in the Nation’s Oldest City.

Top Spring Fishing Spots in St. Augustine

1. Vilano Beach Pier

The Vilano Beach Fishing Pier is a local favorite for springtime action. Easily accessible with free parking, this pier stretches out into the Intracoastal Waterway, where anglers regularly catch redfish, flounder, and black drum.

Local Tip: Use live shrimp on a Carolina rig near the pilings during incoming tide for the best bite.

2. Matanzas Inlet

Located just south of Crescent Beach, this area is known for strong currents and shifting sands that draw in a variety of fish species. Spring brings pompano, whiting, and sheepshead into the inlet.

Why it’s great: The constantly moving waters create deep channels and sandbars that attract hungry fish—and challenge anglers.

3. St. Augustine Inshore Flats

Inshore fishing heats up in the spring, especially around Salt Run, Guana River, and the oyster beds near the 206 bridge. Target speckled trout, snook, and slot-sized redfish using soft plastics or live bait under a popping cork.

Pro tip: Fish early morning for surface action, and look for signs of tailing redfish in shallow grass flats.

4. Bridge of Lions & Downtown Seawall

If you want a fishing experience with a view of historic downtown St. Augustine, drop a line near the Bridge of Lions. You’ll find mangrove snapper, jacks, and sheepshead hanging around the structure.

5. Offshore Charters 

For those looking to head offshore, spring offers the start of cobia, king mackerel, and mahi-mahi runs. Book a trip with a local St. Augustine fishing charter for access to reefs, wrecks, and deep water action.

What’s Biting in the Spring?

Spring marks a major transitional season for fishing in Northeast Florida, with a mix of migratory and resident species active inshore and offshore.

Inshore Favorites:

• Redfish: Active year-round, but more aggressive in spring.

• Speckled Trout: Especially good around oyster beds and creek mouths.

• Flounder: Start moving into creeks—look for them around structure.

• Sheepshead: Found around pilings and rocks; peaking in March and April.

Surf and Pier Species:

• Whiting

• Pompano

• Bluefish

• Black Drum

Offshore Targets:

• Cobia: Migrating north—follow the rays!

• Kingfish: Schooling along the beaches and nearshore reefs.

• Snapper & Grouper: Available on deeper wrecks and reefs.

• Mahi-Mahi: Start showing up on warmer water breaks later in the season.

Gear & Tackle Tips for Spring Success

• Best Bait: Live shrimp, finger mullet, and fiddler crabs are top choices for inshore fishing.

• Rod & Reel: Medium-light spinning setups are ideal for flats and piers. Offshore anglers should gear up with heavier trolling or bottom rigs.

• Tides Matter: Fish around moving tides—either incoming or outgoing—for higher activity levels.

• Licensing: Florida law requires a saltwater fishing license for most anglers. Be sure to check local regulations at MyFWC.com. Certain fish species are subject to restrictions (i.e., Red Snapper). 

Don't Have a Boat? No Problem.

Many locals and visitors opt for guided fishing charters or kayak fishing tours. These offer the chance to explore hard-to-reach honey holes without needing your own vessel. Camachee Cove, Devil’s Elbow, Conch House Marina and Genung’s Fish Camp are great launching points.

Why Spring Fishing Makes St. Augustine a Dream Place to Live

Fishing isn’t just a pastime in St. Augustine—it’s a way of life. Whether you're thinking about moving here or just visiting, the spring fishing scene is a perfect introduction to the area's natural rhythms and community culture.

As a St. Augustine real estate expert, I’ve helped many clients find waterfront homes, investment properties near the Intracoastal, and hidden gems close to the best fishing spots in town. If you're dreaming of a home where the tide determines your morning plans, let's chat.

Ready to Fish—and Maybe Find a Place to Call Home?

If you’re planning a fishing trip to St. Augustine or considering a move to our slice of coastal paradise, I’d love to be your local guide—whether that’s to the best real estate or the best redfish flat.

Reach out today to learn more about homes near the water or to request my free relocation guide.