Hook, Line, and Sinker: Expert Tips for Speckled Trout Fishing

February 13, 2020

Fishing for speckled or spotted sea trout is popular in Florida.  At the posting of this blog, speckled trout are out of season for harvest until May 31, 2020.  They are still fun to catch and release.  When in season, they are a deliciously sweet fish

If you want to catch some spotted trout in Florida, you’ve got to know a thing or two. Here’s a rundown on some expert tips for speckled trout fishing this spring.

Let’s get started!

Top Speckled Trout Fishing Spots

Speckled trout usually search for oyster rock edges where tide breaks occur. In addition, they normally seek deep holes, where tides can get some more slack. These fish appear to feed in the slack near areas with heavy currents, as the heavy currents bring baitfish into the slack.

However, speckled trout are also known to lie on a flat’s edge, as the lip leading to deeper water can be found there. Being in this position allows their bait to come over their heads. For this reason, a suspending lure is a good option if you are targeting this type of area.

Also, look for deeper areas in flats and creeks. Channel swings with deeper holes in creeks can be a goldmine for a person looking for speckled trout. One can also target them by working dock or bridge lights in the cover of night.  These artificial lights attract baitfish, which make for easy pickings for gamefish.

Top Speckled Trout Fishing Times

Speckled trout usually feed when a tidal movement pushes baitfish. In addition, they are known to feed when the light conditions change, as this is when baitfish becomes more active.

In light of the above, a good time to catch speckled trout is the morning. Not only may you catch more of these fish but also you might catch some bigger ones.

Catching speckled trout mid-day may be more challenging. However, it is still possible if the tide occurs in the afternoon.

The evening time is usually a good time to go fishing for speckled trout as well. However, you’ll likely experience the greatest results either in the morning or late at night between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.

Bait and Lures

Live bait like live shrimp, pinfish or greenbacks works exceptionally well with speckled trout. Still, the great thing about these fish is that they are very willing to strike an artificial lure as well.

Consider fly fishing.  It can also be a popular and productive approach in targeting speckled trout.  Putting ourselves in areas we believe the trout may be and offering varied shrimp and baitfish patterns can lead to exciting strikes.

How We Can Help with Speckled Trout Fishing

We offer a wide range of classes to help you to become the ultimate sportsman.  Our staff in our Fishing Department is always ready to advise you on skills and products.  Consider taking  fly casting instruction or tie your own fly lures.

Click here to view other classes from other departments such as scuba diving, backpacking, guns kayak and paddle boarding.  We offer a store with everything you need to excel at your next outdoor adventure, including speckled trout fishing.

Get in touch with us today to find out more about speckled trout fishing and how we can equip you for your next fishing trip. In no time, we’ll put you in an excellent position to catch these popular fish from one season to the next. Here at Bill Jacksons, we have friendly consultants, who are experienced in outdoor adventure. We are happy to work with you individually to make sure you get outfitted with the equipment that is best for your next outdoor journey. Give us a call or stop by to meet our team.