It is the summertime and fishing in West Palm Beach has been fantastic. The saltwater fishing report has been great both inshore and offshore. The big snook have moved onto the beaches and inlets. The snook on the beaches are feeding on the large schools of pilchards, while the inlet fish are eating croakers and small live grunts. Tarpon can also be found cruising the beaches, it is best to look for rolling fishing in the morning. Heading offshore, the mahi-mahi bite has been consistent, with plenty of smaller fish being caught on floating debris or weedlines. On the reef and wrecks, the amberjack fishing has been very good. Jigging a wrecks in 100 - 250ft deep is a great way to catch amberjacks, kingfish, and snapper species. In previous years, the summer sailfishing in Stuart has been epic. This summer we have yet to see a big body of fish move off the reef, stay tuned for more reports throughout the summer months.
The freshwater fishing has also been very consistent. The warm water makes for excellent peacock bass conditions. To consistently catch peacock bass in Lake Ida, use live or artificial baits around structure. Shade under bridges and docks are great places to fish for peacocks during the mid-day when the sun is at its highest point. In the early morning and late afternoons, the clown knifefish bite has been fantastic. Clown knife's can be caught on live shad, just look for them rolling during dawn and dusk. Largemouth bass fishing has also been steady during the mornings, both live and artificial baits have been productive.