As the doldrums of summertime settle in along the Indian River Lagoon coast, nature's influence plays a significant roll in determining the quality of the bite. During the first part of July, calming seas allow boats of all sizes to venture out into the open waters of the Atlantic. These conditions facilitate quality bottom fishing, which is now banned from 90 feet of water on out, and near-shore opportunities for many shallow water anglers. They also allow bluewater anglers quick and easy access to deeper Gulf Stream waters and beyond.  

Arriving around the end of July, a cold-water upwelling known as the Labrador Current gradually sweeps in from the deep, chilling water temperatures from the bottom up. In the past two years, the Labrador Current has been warmer than normal, only dropping near-shore bottom temperatures into the upper 60s. This influx of cold water can chill the bottom temperatures along the 27-fathom ridge, driving most pelagic species out into the warmer waters of the Gulf Stream or into the near-shore warm water eddies along the beach. The third factor affecting fishing in July and August is the influence of tropical summer squalls, which can and have ruined fishing opportunities in the past. Setting all of these possibilities aside, many excellent angling opportunities exist both offshore and inshore along the Indian River Lagoon coast during the summer.

Offshore, yellowfin tuna are the aim of those who are willing to make the long run east (70 to140 miles). Out of Port Canaveral and Ponce De Leon Inlet in the near-shore waters, kingfish will be the staple on the reefs and wrecks in 70 to 90 feet of water, with a mixed bag of three, wahoo, dolphin, and an accasional sailfish thrown in. In addition, sliver kings (tarpon), smoker kings (large kingfish), cobia, sharks, and supersized jacks will be shadowing bait pods along the beach and shipping channels. Inside the Inlets, Spanish mackerel, summer flounder, and mangrove snapper numbers should remain steady. 

In the Lagoon, July and August are the best months to target schools of redfish forming up on the deeper edges of the flats for the late summer spawn. Additionally, summer presents outstanding top-water redfish and sea trout action, with the early morning and late evening bite being the most productive.

Capt. Tom Van Horn