A mix of seawater and fresh water, brackish water holds the promise of catching a variety of fish. Food sources, such as bait fish and shrimp, attract different species of fish and sharks. Mullet favor warmer brackish environments, such as gulf coast lagoons and inlets. According to the Sea Grant website, large schools of mature mullet stage in lower estuaries before making the 40- to 50-mile spawning run offshore. A combination of freshwater and saltwater techniques and equipment can be used when fishing in brackish water.
Tides
Coordinating a fishing trip with the rise and fall of the tides is a popular practice among fishermen that frequent brackish water areas. A strong incoming tide stirs nutrients from the bottom, which brings out small crabs, shrimp and pin fish. Many species of inshore fish, such as flounder and smelt, cruise the deeper water during the low tide and hunt their food in brackish shallows during high tide. An exploratory trip during low tide can disclose bottom contour that has troughs, ledges or deep pockets where fish may be likely to hunt.
Tackle
A medium class rod with a spinning reel and fluorocarbon line can be set up to fish with bait or lures. A good approach to bait fishing in brackish water is a piece of shrimp or grub on a small hook with a 1/2-ounce sinker. Lighter tackle allows the bait to drift in slow currents during a high tide and find its way into pockets where fish tend to dwell. Step up to a 1-ounce sinker if you encounter stronger current or your casts don’t carry far enough to reach areas where fish are showing. Crankbaits and lures are popular in many areas, such as mangroves and brackish lagoons where species such as snook or ladyfish are found. Consulting the regulars at tackle shops and landings is a good way to determine the best rod and reel setup as well as the type of bait rig and lures that are productive in a particular area.
Nets
Fishermen often start their day by making a trip into brackish waters with casting nets to capture bait for their live wells. Bait fish are known to school over troughs and pools that fill during a high tide. Flocks of circling birds or fish boils are good signs that a shoal of bait is in the area. Nylon casting nets can be tossed from a flat boat, skiff or the shoreline—and the weighted loop sinks the net. Gill nets and dip nets are another method of trapping fish in brackish water with the size of the mesh used to determine the size of bait or fish that are trapped.
Many states and localities have strict regulations regarding the use of nets in brackish water areas, especially those at the mouth of rivers where migratory fish are found. It’s important to observe these regulations and hold a valid fishing license when using a net for fishing.
Member Comments