Fishing in Clearwater: The Ultimate Guide

Choosing a place for your next fishing getaway can be a daunting task. You know it well: everything needs to fit perfectly, from the accommodation you're staying in, the species you're targeting, and the quality of marine life. However, that task will get a lot easier if you stick with our ultimate guide.

Clearwater in Florida is a beautiful heaven for fishing. As the name suggests, this town boasts some of the best beaches in the world that attract thousands of anglers each year.

The fishing diversity is another reason. Anglers can choose from deep sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, inshore fishing in the clear, shallow waters, or freshwater fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers. Without further ado, let's dive right into our Clearwater fishing guide!

Fish Species Found in Clearwater

Thanks to the diversity of the Clearwater fishing environment, you can expect many fish species on your hook. Many native and migratory species are found around this region.

Native Species

Clearwater's unique geographical location, bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and various inland waterways, has created a thriving ecosystem many fish species call home. This area is a melting pot of marine life, and each one of these native fish adds to Clearwater's reputation as a fishing paradise. So, cast your rods aside for a moment, and let's check out the native residents of Clearwater.

Snook 

Get ready for a challenge with Snook fishing in Clearwater! These smart fish hang out in mangroves and around docks, waiting to ambush prey. Use live bait like shrimp or pilchards, or try jigs and swimbaits. Snooks are fast, strong, and prefer shallower waters, up to 20 feet.

• Best Time to Catch: Late spring to early fall

• Habitat: Mangroves and docks

• Preferred Bait: Live shrimp or pilchards; jigs and swimbaits for lures

• Fishing Technique: Use live bait or lures, be mindful of their speed and strength

• Difficulty: Challenging due to strength and speed

• Depth: Up to 20 feet

Fishing for Snook in Clearwater is quite adrenaline-pumped. These guys are both fast and robust and can grow to lengths up to 48 inches. They'll give your fishing skills a real workout and make that catch feel "Oh-so-rewarding."

Spotted Seatrout 

The next one on our native's list is the Spotted Seatrout, also known as Speckled Trout, a popular and common inshore fish in Clearwater. They have elongated, sleek bodies with a gray or silver background and distinctive black spots along their back and tail. Seatrouts are a favorite target for light tackle anglers. 

• Best Time to Catch: All year round; prime time from December to March

• Habitat: Grass flats and shallow bays

• Preferred Bait: Use spoons and soft plastics for the best result

• Fishing Technique: Light tackle, luring

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Depth: Shallow waters

The best technique for catching them involves using light tackle with live bait such as shrimp or small fish like pinfish. Artificial lures like soft plastics or jigs can also be effective, especially when mimicking their natural prey. They're highly valued for their light meat and are among the most delicious inshore fish.

Redfish 

Let's move on to a copper-colored prized catch called Redfish or Red Drum in Clearwater's waters. These beautiful fish usually reside in shallow bays and grassy flats around mangrove roots and oyster bars. They're moderately complex to catch because of their stamina and fighting ability. Their weak point lies in their slow swimming.

• Best Time to Catch: Fall

• Habitat: Shallow waters near mangroves and flats

• Preferred Bait: Live bait like mullet or crab, soft plastics

• Fishing Technique: Sight fishing, casting in shallow waters

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: 1 to 3 feet

If you're into luring, you'll do wonders with the gold spoons or soft plastic lures that mimic small fish. On the other hand, if you use live bait, shrimp, crabs, and mullets should be your go-to choice. These fish typically inhabit shallow, generally 1-3 feet deep, though larger bulls swim in slightly deeper waters.

Goliath Grouper

Now, about the jaw-dropper of Clearwater, Goliath Grouper. This is a true giant among the local species. These massive fish can usually be found in deeper offshore waters, around wrecks and reefs, but they can also surprise you in coastal waters. Goliaths can reach sizes well over 400 pounds, and the biggest ones reach 800 pounds!

• Best Time to Catch: During the warmer months

• Habitat: Shallow waters during the spawning season, deeper through the rest of the year

• Preferred Bait: Any natural bait that you throw (fish or crabs)

• Fishing Technique: Heavy-duty tackle due to their size

• Difficulty: Moderately difficult 

• Depth: 20 to 30 feet

If you are targeting this considerable predator, you must be aware that their size and strength make them a competitor for fishing with heavy tackle. These fish tend to hold close to structures, so casting around wrecks, reefs, and underwater debris gives the best chance of hooking.

Mangrove Snapper

The Mangrove Snapper – a real gem for anglers in Clearwater! These little fighters make their home in the mangrove-lined estuaries and around anything that gives them a good hideout, like bridges or piers. You'll often find them in cozy, shallow spots, usually 5 to 30 feet deep. Perfect for a day out on the boat or just casting from the shore.

• Best Time to Catch: Summer is the prime time when they're busy spawning

• Habitat: Bridges, mangroves

• Preferred Bait: Live shrimp, sardines

• Fishing Technique: Light tackle, bottom fishing

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Depth: 5 to 30 feet

Bait-wise, they aren't too picky – live shrimp, small pinfish, or even some cut bait like sardines will do the trick. But here's a pro tip: keep your tackle light and hooks small. Mangrove Snappers are pretty sharp-eyed and can be a bit edgy. Snappers are small, but you'd be surprised with the fight they can put up.

Sheepshead

You have to try catching Sheepshead in Clearwater. These striped characters are a pretty sneaky catch! Known for their distinctive black and white stripes, which make them look like underwater jailbirds, Sheepshead hang around structures like piers and even rocky bottoms. You'll find them swimming around in waters ranging from shallow flats to depths of about 20 feet – perfect for various fishing styles.

• Best Time to Catch: Late winter to early spring

• Habitat: Underwater structures like piers

• Preferred Bait: Fiddler crabs, barnacles

• Fishing Technique: Bottom fishing, small hooks

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Depth: 10 to 20 feet

When it comes to bait, Sheepshead are a bit picky. They love crustaceans like fiddler crabs, shrimp, or even barnacles. Sheepshead are famous for their "bait-stealing" skills. They have a unique way of nibbling off your bait without you even feeling a bite. They're moderately challenging to catch, but oh, so rewarding when you do. Not to mention, they're pretty tasty on the dinner table.

Migratory Species

Now, let's move on from our residents to the occasional visitors to Clearwater. Thanks to the proximity of the Gulf of Mexico, there are many of them. We'll meet some of these seasonal stars in the following few sections. We'll dive into when to catch them, how to catch them, and why each of these migratory fish is worth the chase.

Tarpon

Tarpon fishing in Clearwater is an adventure like no other! Known as the Silver King, these powerful fish leap out of the water, putting up a legendary fight. They can exceed 100 pounds, making them a top prize for anglers. Live bait like crabs, mullet, or pinfish works best, but fly fishing is also an exciting challenge.

• Best Time to Catch: Late spring to early summer

• Habitat: Primarily offshore waters, but you can also spot some inshore 

• Preferred Bait: Live bait like crabs or mullet, artificial lures

• Fishing Technique: Casting, live bait fishing

• Difficulty: Hard

• Depth: 15 to 30 feet

They're typically found in the shallower inshore coastal area, but don't be surprised if you spot them rolling right off the beaches or near the passes. So, if you're up for the challenge and the thrill, give Tarpon fishing in Clearwater a go. It's an experience you won't forget anytime soon. 

King Mackerel

Known locally as Kingfish, they're a fan favorite, especially during their migration periods in the spring and fall. These sleek, speedy fish are like the sports cars of the sea, making them a thrilling target for anglers looking for serious action. This speedster is the star in Clearwater's tournaments, which we will touch later. King Mackerel can reach impressive sizes, anywhere from 20 to 50 pounds.

• Best Time to Catch: They migrate from March to May and September to November

• Habitat: Offshore waters

• Preferred Bait: Live bait (blue runners, threadfin herring, and cigar minnows)

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, light tackle

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: 10 to 40 feet

Catching them isn't easy, thanks to their blistering speed and powerful runs. You'll have the highest chance of experiencing King's speed on the rod by trolling using live bait like blue runners or threadfin herring. Prepare to book a charter because they're often found at depths from 50 to 150 feet, cruising around reefs and wrecks or following schools of smaller fish.

Spanish Mackerel

We have another member of the Mackerel family, the Spanish Mackerel. Like their King cousins, they're speedy and a blast to catch. The best times to catch these agile swimmers are during their migration in spring and fall. Though smaller than their King cousins at 2 to 10 pounds, they make up for it with incredible speed and agility.

• Best Time to Catch: March to May, September to November

• Habitat: Nearshore waters

• Preferred Bait: Live bait (shrimp, small fish), shiny spoons, jigs

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, light tackle

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: 10 to 40 feet

Fishing for Spanish Mackerel is a moderate challenge. They're quick and often hit the bait with a surprising burst of speed. They're usually found in shallower waters, around 20 to 40 feet deep, often near the shore, making them an excellent target for boat and shore anglers.

Cobia

Cobia are known for their curiosity and strong fighting spirit, making them a desirable catch. They usually show up when you least expect them, often during the warmer months from late spring to early fall. They move around alongside larger objects in the water, like buoys, floating debris, and wrecks.

• Best Time to Catch: Late spring to early fall

• Habitat: Wrecks, reefs, buoys

• Preferred Bait: Crabs, eels

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, bottom fishing, sight fishing 

• Difficulty: Moderate 

• Depth: 20 to 60 feet deep

Cobia is not picky about bait. Live bait like crabs, eels, or pinfish can be very effective. For luring, brightly colored jigs or lures that mimic their natural prey can do the trick. Sight fishing for Cobia can be exhilarating – it's all about spotting them near the surface and casting right into their path. 

Pompano

Pompano fishing in Clearwater is a real hit for anglers who like to cook their catch. These sleek, silver fish might not be the biggest catch in the sea, but they are one of the tastiest! Pompano is a favorite among local anglers for their angling fight and taste.

• Best Time to Catch: Cooler months

• Habitat: Usually close to the shore

• Preferred Bait: Live shrimps

• Fishing Technique: Spinning with light tackle

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Depth: Shallow waters

These feisty fish are typically found closer to the shores, making them an excellent catch for beach anglers and boaters. The best times to hook a Pompano in Clearwater are during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, when they migrate closer to shore.

Prime Fishing Spots in Clearwater

So, now you know the what, when, and how to fish in Clearwater, but one thing needs to be added. What is universal for every fishing place is that the locals like to keep the best spots tightly guarded. However, there are still lots of places that can offer genuine excitement for the rest of us.

The Clearwater Beach

Let's start with the most basic spot, but it's great nonetheless – Clearwater Beach! This is more than your regular spot for tanning and swimming. You can catch any number of fish there, including Snook, Redfish, and an occasional Spotted Seatrout.

You can cast your line from the shore or a boat; you'll have plenty of success either way. The central spot on the beach is Pier 60, which stretches 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico. You'll need to get a $10 fishing license for the pier, and you can also rent a few rods for $15 more.

The Sand Key Park

Just a bit south of the Clearwater beach is the Sand Key Park. It's not as busy as the beach, and you can find the peace you want for your weekend. Locals usually go there to surf fishing. 

Also, shore fishing here is excellent for catching Pompano and Whiting, and the jetties offer a good shot at Snapper and Mackerel.

The Phillipe Park

Philippe Park is just a short drive away from Clearwater. This 122-acre park, rich in history and natural beauty, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park's waterfront location makes it an excellent spot for catching various fish. You can target species like Snook, Redfish, and Spotted Seatrout.

This is a great place to travel with your family. There are picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails where the whole family can enjoy a day out.

The Hurricane Pass

The Hurricane Pass is a well-known spot among local anglers because of the large variety of fish that can be caught due to the mix of brackish and saltwater. You can target Snook, Redfish, Trout, and even Tarpon. You can also occasionally see Sharks and various other game fish.

Moreover, the pass's currents are strong, and its waters can get quite deep, which makes it a spot designed for more experienced anglers.

The Rube Allyn Reef

The last one of our best fishing spots in Clearwater is Rube Allyn Reef. It is an artificial reef that has become a popular spot for offshore anglers. Common catches include Grouper (there are special restrictions around Groupers, but more about that later), Snapper, Amberjack, and even Barracuda.

The structure of the reef offers a perfect habitat for them to thrive. But remember, you'll need to charter a fishing boat because the reef is in deeper waters.

Fishing Tournaments in Clearwater

For those of you who want to do professional fishing, Clearwater is a great place. It has something to offer anglers of all skill levels. Each tournament has its own set of rules, entry fees, and prize structures.

It's always a good idea to check the current year's schedule and tournament details, as events can vary yearly. Let's see what the most known fishing tournaments in Clearwater have to offer:

The King of the Beach – The Kingfish Tournament

Let's start with a big one, the largest Kingfish tournament in the United States. Last year marked the 30^th anniversary, and the 1^st place earned a prize of $20,000. Not bad for a three-day fishing, don't you think?

The Ladies Teal Carpet Fishing Tournament 

This one is for females only, so back off, guys. It has a 35-year-long tradition, bringing the prettier side of fishing together for a day of guys-free fishing. The entry fee was $60 last year, and the first prize was $500.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in Clearwater

We have a little left to go; you almost know everything there is to know about fishing in Clearwater. But, there's still one important aspect that you need to familiarize yourself with – the Fishing regulations and licenses in Clearwater set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

• Fishing License Requirements:

  • Saltwater Fishing: Everyone who plans to fish in saltwater bodies around Clearwater needs a Florida saltwater license. This applies to both shore and offshore fishing.

  • Freshwater Fishing: Fishing in freshwater requires a separate freshwater license.

  • Exemptions: Kids under 16, Florida residents age 65 or older, and active-duty military members are not required to have a license. There are also occasional license-free fishing days.

• Where to Purchase: You can buy your license online through the FWC website or at various retail shops, such as bait and tackle shops.

• Regulations on Fish Species: There are many regulations for various fish species. For example, size limits, bag limits (the number of specific fish you can keep in one day), and seasonal closures. These regulations change regularly, so it's best that you check the FWC's website right before your trip.

• Catch and Release: For certain species, especially those overfished or under conservation, catch and release is encouraged or even required.

• Gear Restrictions: Fishing gear can only be used in certain areas or for certain species. For example, some areas may restrict spearfishing, and certain fish may only be caught with specific bait and hooks.

These are just some of the regulations active today. You must do your due diligence and check the current regulations right before your trip to Clearwater, as they tend to change over time.

Protected Fish Species in Clearwater

Let's not forget that you can't keep everything you pull out of the water. Some species are overfished and endangered, so FWC had to prohibit these fish from being harvested: 

• Goliath Grouper: This critically endangered giant has been protected in Florida waters since 1990. Catching and keeping Goliaths is prohibited, although catch-and-release fishing is allowed.

• Sturgeon: Certain species of Sturgeon are protected under state and federal laws. However, Sturgeon is often susceptible to overfishing and environmental changes.

• Nassau Grouper: Like the Goliath Grouper, the Nassau Grouper is protected, and harvesting it is illegal.

• Tarpon: While not entirely protected, there are strict regulations for the harvesting of Tarpon.

As with the regulations, the protection of fish species changes over time. For example, Goliath Grouper might recover from overfishing, and FWC might lift a ban. That's why you need to check the current active regulations.

Final Thoughts

Here is a comprehensive guide to fishing in the sparkling waters of Clearwater, Florida. Now, you're equipped with the knowledge necessary for the best fishing trip. However, if you have any questions or think we missed something, please let us know in the comment section below. So, pack your gear, pick your spot, and set out to Clearwater.