Fishing in Sebastian Inlet: The Ultimate Guide

Have you ever wanted to pack your pole, put on a backpack, and head to your favorite fishing spot to relax, only to realize it's not fishing season? You're not alone; many experienced anglers run into this issue. But here's one US fishing capital open 12 months a year – Sebastian Inlet. 

Sebastian Inlet, nestled between the tempestuous Atlantic and the alluring Indian River, is one of America's most diverse fishing destinations. Its shores offer many picturesque spots for inshore fishing, while its waters provide a sanctuary for various fish species.

But fishing is just the beginning of the adventure at Sebastian Inlet. With activities like hiking, surfing, camping, and scuba diving, this place promises a thrilling experience for the entire family, regardless of age. 

This guide is your key to unlocking fishing secrets in the enchanting Sebastian Inlet. Packed with practical tips and insider knowledge, it's your comprehensive resource for a successful fishing expedition. So, let's get started on this exciting journey!

Fish Species Found in Sebastian Inlet

When exploring the Indian River and Sebastian Inlet, one can't help but marvel at the abundance of life. From the tranquil lagoon to the mighty Atlantic, this place teems with hundreds of fish species, promising a bountiful catch for every angler.

Native Species

This place is home to many endemic species; its narrowness and warmth attract many different types of fish. Whether by the shore or deep in the ocean, Sebastian Inlet always offers something worth your attention. Here are some of the most popular.

Snook

It is one of the most popular species in these waters and is well known among anglers as fast and partly aggressive, which makes it more attractive to catch. The Indian River is an estuary, making it a perfect place for Snooks, especially for the small ones, keeping them safe from predators. They go through the inlet and swim in salt and freshwater when they grow. 

• Best Time to Catch: During warmer months, spring and fall

• Habitat: Estuaries, Lagoons and Mangroves 

• Preferred Bait: Live shrimp or mullets

• Difficulty: Challengeable fish, not much experience needed

• Depth: Up to 20 feet

During winter, Snook fishing remains a popular activity since the estuary maintains warmer water. This warmth attracts Snooks, as they cannot withstand colder temperatures. Snooks prefer their privacy and often seek cover among the mangroves or bushes.

Snook is recognizable by its silver color and black line stretching across the entire body. Also, the jutting underjaw is something many anglers tend to mention while describing it.  Its weight can reach up to 30 pounds, and its length sometimes reaches a miraculous 50 inches.

Redfish

Another treasure of these waters is the Redfish, also called Red Drum and known for "tailing," going to shallow waters to feed. That makes them very vulnerable, as they are easily visible to anglers that way.

• Best Time to Catch: Late summer – beginning of fall 

• Habitat: Estuaries, coastal waters, shallow waters

• Preferred Bait: Live baits like small fish, shrimp, crab

• Difficulty: It may be challenging due to its strong tail 

• Depth: 1-4 feet

Famous for its reddish-bronze color and its sloping forehead, Redfish is also known as a slow fish. Sebastian Inlet provides a habitat for juveniles and the much more significant "Bull" Redfish. They all prefer shallow water, especially during warmer months, but Bulls and grown Redfishes often swim in deeper waters.

Redfish can vary in size. While juveniles can be just a couple of inches long, adults can grow up to 30 inches and weigh up to 20 pounds, some larger fish grow up to 40 inches or more and weigh more than 30 pounds. 

Mangrove Snapper

If you are looking for a real adventure, targeting Mangrove Snapper might be the right choice for you. Whether you fish from your boat or choose the shore instead, the snapper will help you explore the dynamic ecosystem of Sebastian Inlet. This fish is not just about the challenge and adventure; the delicious meat this species offers attracts even more anglers to try to hook it.

• Best Time to Catch: Year-round but summer is the peak season

• Habitat: Around mangrove-lined areas, rocks, docks, pilings 

• Preferred Bait: Small live fish, shrimp, crab, cut bait

• Difficulty: Catching this fish might be challenging due to its cautious behavior and inaccessible hiding places

• Depth: 10-40  feet, but during low light, it often moves to shallower waters 

Mangrove Snapper is famous for night fishing, as it is more active at night.  You can see them around jetties on both sides of the inlet. Using small, glowing artificial baits, as well as some live baits, can be helpful in night fishing. They are small, ranging from 10 to 14 inches. 

Spotted Seatrout

For genuine lovers of inshore fishing who can understand the habitat and behavior of this species and who are ready to combine their skill and knowledge, there is a hidden beauty of Sebastian Inlet, the Spotted Seatrout. They are always easily recognizable for their shiny silver color and beautiful dark spots along their back and upper sides. This species adds to the diversity of coastal fishing opportunities.

• Best Time to Catch: Year-round but most active during the fall and winter

• Habitat: Shallow and grassy water around seagrass beds, mangrove shorelines, deeper holes

• Preferred Bait: Live shrimp, mullet, topwater plugs, and other artificial lures

• Difficulty: Suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers

• Depth: Ordinarily found from 2 to 6 feet, during cold months, it may move to deeper water

Understanding their seasonal movements and spawning patterns can improve your catch. Locating them in the inlet or around it during different seasons is much easier with some help from the local anglers. They are well known for attacking topwater lures and making massive water explosions on the surface. Most anglers are excited to see them, especially under the shine of a beautiful sunset. 

Black Drum

If you are one of those fishermen who like to wake up early and start their fishing journey with the first morning sun, this fish might interest you. Famous for its "drumming" sounds, Black Drum has earned its unique and exciting status in the fishing world.

It's also a real challenge for fishing, especially if you run into some larger ones. Then you'll need to use bigger baits and sturdy tackle, above all for famous "big uglies," which can weigh more than 50 pounds. For them, you need some experience and a bit of luck as well. 

• Best Time to Catch: Year-round but is more active during warmer months

• Habitat: Inshore fish live in bays, estuaries, and river mouths

• Preferred Bait: Shrimp, crabs and clams

• Difficulty: For all skill levels, except targeting “big uglies,” which are for more experienced ones

• Depth: Most often found in shallower waters 

The Black Drum is blackish-gray with a tiny "beard" under its chin. Its size variability makes it an exciting catch for many different skill levels. Usually, its size ranges from 13 to 30 inches or more. Big uglies, though, may grow up to 50 inches and weigh more than 50 pounds. 

Sheepshead

Sheepshead fish got its weird name because its mouth resembles a sheep's muzzle. The most fascinating thing about a Sheepshead is its teeth, which seem almost identical to humans. 

They use these human-like teeth for crushing shellfish and grinding oysters, crabs, and other members of their diverse diet. This fish is also very respected for its highly prized white meat, which is another reason to embark on that adventure.

• Best Time to Catch:  Year-round but more active during winter months

• Habitat: Structures like docks, jetties and rocky areas

• Preferred Bait: Fiddler or mud crabs

• Difficulty: This fish requires a lot of skill and patience

• Depth: 10-30 feet

Sheepshead's nickname "Convict Fish" comes from black and white stripes all along its side, resembling anglers on a convict's uniform. This fish is also known for its extensive and sharp dorsal spines. They usually range from 11 to 30 inches; some might even exceed 30 inches. Their weight is generally between 5 and 15 pounds, sometimes reaching over 20 pounds.

Flounder

We can't talk about native species in these waters, and not to mention Flounder. Its camouflage skills, such as color changing and blending in all kinds of surroundings, make this fish almost invisible on muddy or sandy floors.

Flounder is also well known for its sideways swimming and flat lying, which allow it to strike its prey rapidly. These exclusive targets are much respected for their mild flavor, making them one of the favorite meals in Florida's restaurants.

• Best Time to Catch: During warmer months

• Habitat: Sandy or muddy bottoms

• Preferred Bait: Artificial or live minnows, small fish or shrimp

• Difficulty: Requires a lot of patience and skill due to its fast and very sneaky ambush

• Depth: Usually found close to the shore 

What makes this species so specific is its ambush tactics. Blended in its surroundings, Flounder can patiently lie flat for hours, waiting for its prey to appear. At the right moment, when the prey shows up, it launches a fast and precise strike, and that is when the feast begins. In Sebastian Inlet, the typical size of a Flounder is 12 to 20 inches. 

Migratory Species

Many species are only visitors to these waters. Some because they are just passing by, some come to hunt, and some hide from the cold. Let's mention some of them. 

Tarpon

Tarpon is a migratory fish often seen in Sebastian Inlet and is known for its acrobatic abilities and impressive size. It migrates to warmer waters, such as inlets and estuaries, during the spring and summer.

A true spectacle is when adult Tarpons gather in a large group for spawning. Those lucky enough to be there can witness them "dancing" in the water, performing the acrobatic show of dreams.

• Best Time to Catch: Late spring to early fall

• Habitat: Inshore and nearshore waters

• Preferred Bait: Live crab or mullet

• Difficulty: Challenging and intense fish; you need much skill to land it

• Depth: Shallow and deeper water

Catching a Tarpon is challenging. An average-sized one might measure around 5 to 6 feet and weigh 80 to 100 pounds. Larger ones may even exceed 200 pounds. That is why anglers targeting Tarpon need to use specialized tackle and reels with much stronger drag systems. 

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel might be the right choice for those who love dynamic fishing. Seasonal changes mainly influence their migration. Anglers at Sebastian Inlet eagerly await spring to catch the fast and brilliantly colored fish.

• Best Time to Catch: From spring to fall

• Habitat: Shallow coastal areas,  inshore and nearshore waters

• Preferred Bait: Lures that mimic their natural prey and small fish

• Difficulty: For all skill levels

• Depth: Both shallow and deep water

It's commonly found in shallow and mid-depth water and deep ones. That is why anglers often must use trolling techniques to cover a range of depths to increase the chance of catching it. Spanish Mackerel are medium-sized fish with an average weight of between 2 and 5 pounds. Their length typically ranges from 22 to 36 inches. Some massive ones may exceed 50 inches.

Cobia

For anglers looking for an exciting fishing experience following warm sea currents, Cobia often comes to Sebastian Inlet. Found in many tropical waters, Cobia moves along the shore in smaller schools. Their curiosity might get them into trouble since anglers know about their attraction to underwater structures. 

• Best Time to Catch:  Spring and early summer

• Habitat: Offshore and nearshore waters, but can be found near wrecks and reefs

• Preferred Bait: Crab, eels, mullet

• Difficulty: Challenging fish, due to its size and strength 

• Depth: 20-60 feet

Recognizable characteristics for this species are a lateral stripe over the whole body, running from the eye to the tail, and a specific lower jaw extending forward. Their size is worth mentioning, as their length might exceed 6 feet, and they can weigh over 100 pounds. 

Prime Fishing Spots in Sebastian Inlet

Now that you know what and when to fish, the next question is where. Knowing the right spots might help you catch more fish and have a bigger adventure. Let's check out the best fishing spots in this area.

Jetty Park

Jetty Park, located on the north side of the inlet, is the most popular fishing spot due to its rocky jetties extending into the Atlantic. Whether you fish from shore or rock, this place guarantees a fun fishing experience. This place is full of picnic areas and beautiful ocean views, allowing people to enjoy watching many animals, such as seabirds, sea turtles, and dolphins.

Sebastian Inlet State Park Fishing Pier

This fishing pier is within Sebastian Inlet State Park and offers perfect access to the Atlantic. It is ideal for anglers because its facilities, such as fish cleaning stations and lighting, make night fishing much more fun. The park also offers various habitats if you want to spice things up. 

Catwalks on the South Side

For those interested in some more prominent species, elevated walkways along the coast provide anglers with better accessibility to deeper waters, increasing their chance of hooking something bigger. The beautiful nature and unforgettable landscapes also attract people outside the fishing world.

Under the A1A Bridge

The bridge connecting the inlet offers an exceptional fishing spot below it. Famous for its Mangrove Snapper population, the bridge construction provides shelter to many different species. Anglers targeting Snapper, Snook, or Redfish come to this place to try their luck. Understanding the tide patterns might enhance the chances of hooking something at this place.

Sandy Beaches and Rocky Points

The combination of rock and sand creates the perfect environment to attract a wide range of fish species. As the underwater rocky structures provide the ideal cover for fish that need shelter, the sand attracts predators and their ability to easily track their prey on it. That diversity creates a particular dynamic in underwater life, making it even more enjoyable for the anglers that fish around.

Fishing Techniques in Sebastian Inlet

Anglers worldwide have discovered an uncountable number of fishing techniques. Every fish and place is unique, so techniques vary everywhere. To succeed more with fish, it's always good to check out the most desirable fishing techniques often used by local anglers. Here, we will present some of Sebastian Inlet's local methods. 

Fly Fishing

Flats and shallows surround Sebastian Inlet and are famous among fly fishing enthusiasts. Most often associated with Redfish. Targeting Redfish, especially in shallow waters, requires a lot of precision and stealth.

Anglers use lightweight rods and different types of crafted flies and then imitate the movements of small baits. The fly fishing technique is thrilling for all experience levels.

Drifting the Live Bait

One of the most popular techniques in this area is drifting with live bait. Local anglers most often rely on natural baits such as mullet or shrimp. This technique involves mimicking the natural movements of the bait to attract the fish.

To have a good catch, you also need to pay close attention to the water flow and adjust it with the bait so you can trick more fish. It is also essential to know how to place live bait on the hook so that it looks natural.

Topwater Plug Fishing

Using topwater plugs in fishing can be a real adrenaline-pumping experience. They are used for species known for explosive surface attacks, such as Trout and Snook. Casting lures disturb the water's surface, imitating the panic moves of injured fish. The most exciting part is watching the predator striking through the surface to attack its prey.

Jigging near Jetties and Bridge

Rocky structures, bridges, or jetties are prime habitats for many fish species inhabiting Sebastian Inlet. Anglers use specialized weighted lures to imitate the movements of struggling fish as they fall to the bottom.

This technique attracts bottom predators like Snapper, Grouper, or Sheepshead. Navigating the structure requires a lot of skill and precision, and avoiding getting your hook stuck is essential. Fishing spots under the A1 bridge are trendy for this fishing method.

There are also many other techniques you can see around Sebastian Inlet. Sometimes, all you need is good timing and a bit of luck.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in Sebastian Inlet

If you want your fishing trip to be perfect without any unforeseen circumstances, the best thing to do is check the regulations and licenses for the place you visit. It may seem harmless, but the consequences can cost several hundred dollars. 

Sebastian Inlet is under Florida's jurisdiction. That means that all regulations are set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Regulations

• Species-Specific Rules: In the variety of species, different species are under various regulations, depending on the fish size and season. For example, you cannot hook a snook during its spawning period.

• Protected Areas: Some areas near the Sebastian Inlet have Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) markings. Those areas have specific regulations to save marine ecosystems.

• Catch and Release: Catch and Release for certain species, especially those under conservation or overfished, is highly encouraged or mandatory.

License Requirements 

• Who Needs a License: All Florida residents between 16 and 64 must have a valid fishing license. Visitors above the age of 16 must have a non-resident fishing license.

• Types of Licenses: Licenses vary depending on your residence and the type of water you choose to fish in. Some species require special permits, such as lobster permits. 

• Where to Purchase: The FWC's mobile app lets users buy permits and licenses through their phones. You can purchase them online through the FWC's official website. Some retail outlets and fishing stores might sell them, too.

These regulations occasionally change; checking FWC's official website before planning your trip is best.

Final Thoughts

So, are you ready to have a relaxing fishing day at Sebastian Inlet? Now that you have the necessary knowledge, the only thing left is to plan your perfect fishing trip and go. Any picture or guide can't afford you the experience and joy of visiting the Inlet. If you think we haven't mentioned something important or have any questions, please let us know in the comments below.