Accuracy is paramount. Skip baits into shallows below overhanging branches for consistent hookups.

In warmer months, local grassflats just beg for a topwater plug, although I’ve seen them produce huge trout in the middle of winter. The grass is dotted with sand and shell potholes that hold some of the largest trout on the planet, along with snook, ladyfish and other gamefish. During fall, redfish school up and move across the flats. On a good day an angler can chase four or five different schools, and catch several fish from each.

Wabasso offers some great fishing for anglers drifting or using a trolling motor, but the best way to fish the area is by small skiff, with someone on the poling platform inching the boat along the shoreline. This silent approach allows the bow angler to sight-fish. By slowly creeping down the shorelines or up into shallow coves, anglers can find fish at the ambush points.

For fly fishermen after redfish, this type of stalking and sight-casting to tailing or tipping redfish is the ultimate fishing challenge, very addictive. Strikes can be spectacular, along with classic failures. Fortunately, redfish have short memories, so a denial can be followed up with another cast that may knock the feathers off that very same fly.

Good sunglasses, clean water and a nice calm day won’t always mean you’ll encounter redfish in Wabasso, but it does guarantee a colorful day on the water with a variety of terrain. Put in the time and eliminate the spots that don’t hold fish, and you will find fish in this area.

Launching Limited

In early February the boat ramp at the Wabasso County causeway park was functional, but without a dock; there were only a few pilings left, thanks to last year’s hurricanes. Repairs have been slow. It’s tough to climb onto larger boats launching here, when you don’t have a dock. There is also a ramp at Sebastian Inlet State Park, but no docks.

Wabasso Tackle Shop has full service and can be reached at (772) 589-8518. They’re located on U.S. 1.

This particular coastal region can be studied on Florida Sportsman chart Number 05, which covers Melbourne to Vero Beach.

FS