Best Fishing River In Northeastern Florida

The St. Johns River is widely considered one of the best fishing rivers in northeastern Florida. It offers a diverse range of species, including largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and more. The river stretches from Vero Beach to Jacksonville, providing plenty of opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.

Other notable fishing rivers in northeastern Florida include:

Wekiva River
Econlockhatchee River
Rodman Reservoir
Ocklawaha River

These rivers offer a variety of fishing experiences, from calm backwaters to challenging rapids.

Wekiva River Fishing Tips

The Wekiva River is a popular fishing destination in northeastern Florida, known for its diverse fish population and scenic beauty. Here are some tips for successful fishing in the Wekiva River:

1. Choose the Right Time of Year:

Spring and Fall: These seasons offer excellent fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.
Summer: The river can be crowded during the summer months, but you can still find good fishing spots.
Winter: While fishing can be slower in the winter, you may still catch largemouth bass and other species.

2. Know the River:

Shallow Flats: These areas are excellent for catching largemouth bass and crappie.
Deep Holes: These are good spots to find catfish and other bottom-dwelling fish.
Inlets: Inlets where the Wekiva River meets Lake Jesup can be productive fishing spots.

3. Choose the Right Bait or Lure:

Live Bait: Minnows, worms, and crickets are effective live baits for bass and panfish.
Artificial Lures: Jigs, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are popular choices for fishing in the Wekiva River.

4. Consider Hiring a Guide:

A local fishing guide can provide valuable insights into the river’s conditions and help you find the best fishing spots.

5. Be Mindful of Regulations:

Familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations for the Wekiva River, including bag limits, size restrictions, and licensing requirements.

6. Enjoy the Experience:

Fishing in the Wekiva River is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Florida. Take your time, relax, and enjoy the experience.

When choosing a river to fish, consider factors such as the type of fish you want to catch, the difficulty level of the fishing, and the amenities available in the surrounding area.

Here’s a list of essential fishing gear to take when fishing in a river:

Rod and Reel:

Rod: Choose a rod with a suitable action and length for the type of fish you’re targeting. For example, a medium-heavy rod is good for bass fishing.
Reel: A spinning reel or baitcasting reel is commonly used for river fishing. Consider the size of the reel based on the line weight you’ll be using.

Line:

Line weight: Choose a line weight appropriate for the size of fish you’re targeting and the conditions of the river.
Line type: Consider using a braided line for increased sensitivity and abrasion resistance, or a monofilament line for better casting.

Hooks:

Hook size: Select hooks that are appropriate for the size of fish you’re targeting.
Hook style: Different hook styles, such as worm hooks, jig hooks, or crankbait hooks, can be used for various fishing techniques.

Lures and Baits:

Live bait: Minnows, worms, and crickets are popular live bait options for river fishing.
Artificial lures: Jigs, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures are effective for catching a variety of fish.

Accessories:

Fishing pliers: Essential for removing hooks and cutting line.
Fishing net: For landing fish.
Fishing vest or tackle box: To store and organize your gear.
Hat and sunglasses: To protect yourself from the sun.
Sunscreen: To protect your skin from the sun.
Insect repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects.

Additional Considerations:

Local regulations: Check local fishing regulations for any specific requirements or restrictions.
Weather conditions: Dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for changing conditions.
River conditions: Be aware of the river’s current, depth, and obstacles.

By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful fishing trip to the river.