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Spring Fishing in Navarre: What’s Biting & When

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Spring is one of the most exciting seasons for fishing in Navarre. As the Gulf and Sound begin to warm, fish become more active, migratory species return, and the shoreline comes alive with fresh opportunities for anglers. From surf fishing to pier action to inshore adventures, spring is a time of renewal and peak fishing potential on the Emerald Coast.

Here’s your complete guide to spring fishing in Navarre Beach, including what’s biting, where to go, and how to make the most of the season.

Why Spring Is a Fantastic Fishing Season in Navarre

Spring brings:

  • Warming water temperatures that stimulate feeding
  • Early migrations of popular gamefish
  • More stable weather windows after winter fronts
  • Active baitfish schools moving along the shore
  • Bright, calm mornings perfect for casting

Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned angler, spring is one of the best times to fish Navarre.

What’s Biting in March

March marks the transition from winter patterns to spring activity.

Target Species:

Pompano (Prime Return Month!)
One of Navarre’s favorite spring catches. They show up in the surf, especially on calm days.

Whiting
Still strong and reliable, great for beginners and families.

Sheepshead
Peak activity continues around bridges, pilings, and structure.

Redfish
Active in both surf and Sound as warming trends begin.

Speckled Trout
Shallow flats begin warming, bringing trout closer to the surface.

Best Places to Fish in March:

  • Surf near deep troughs
  • Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
  • Bridge pilings for sheepshead
  • Santa Rosa Sound grass edges

What’s Biting in April

April is when spring fishing really hits its stride. Water temperatures jump, baitfish move in, and bigger species start showing up.

Target Species:

Pompano (Peak Bite!)
April is often the BEST month for pompano – fast, fun, and abundant.

Spanish Mackerel
Schools return to the pier and surf, striking spoons and Got-Cha plugs aggressively.

King Mackerel
Early-season kings appear around the pier on warmer weeks.

Speckled Trout
Feeding actively at sunrise on flats, drop-offs, and grassy points.

Flounder
Catches increase around docks, sandy bottoms, and transitions.

Redfish
A consistent target in both surf and Sound.

Best Places in April:

  • Navarre Pier (mackerel hotspot)
  • Surf anglers targeting pompano
  • Sound-side flats for trout
  • Nearshore structure for flounder

What’s Biting in May

May blends late-spring warmth with early-summer patterns, giving anglers some of the most diverse fishing opportunities of the year.

Target Species:

Pompano
Still active early in the month but tapering by late May.

Mahi & Cobia (Occasional Sightings Nearshore)
On calm, clear days you may spot Cobia cruising near the pier or along the beach.

Spanish & King Mackerel
Peak action continues at the pier.

Redfish
Great in the surf and around structure.

Speckled Trout
Early mornings and late evenings are prime times.

Flounder
Increasing numbers as waters stabilize.

Best Places in May:

  • Navarre Pier (kings, Spanish, possible cobia)
  • Surf fishing all along Navarre Beach
  • Deeper Sound channels for redfish and trout
  • Grass flats at sunrise

Best Places to Fish in Navarre During Spring

1. Navarre Beach Fishing Pier

One of the top spring destinations for:

  • Spanish mackerel
  • King mackerel
  • Cobia sightings
  • Pompano near the surf line

2. Surf Along Navarre Beach

Spring surf fishing is spectacular, especially for pompano and whiting.

3. Santa Rosa Sound

Great for speckled trout, redfish, sheepshead, and flounder.

4. Navarre Bridge & Causeway

Prime zone for sheepshead and redfish early in the season.

Best Baits & Lures for Spring Fishing

Natural Baits:

  • Sand fleas (pompano gold!)
  • Shrimp
  • Live minnows
  • Cut mullet
  • Fiddler crabs (sheepshead)

Lures:

  • Pompano jigs (pink, yellow, white)
  • Spoons for Spanish
  • Got-Cha plugs at the pier
  • Soft plastics on light jigs for trout
  • Popping cork rigs in the Sound

Matching the hatch, bait size and color, makes a big difference in spring.

Spring Fishing Tips for Navarre

  • Fish early mornings for trout and redfish.
  • Watch for birds diving — a sign of mackerel and baitfish schools.
  • Look for sand “ripples” in the surf; pompano love these troughs.
  • Check water clarity — Spanish and kings prefer clean, green water.
  • Be mindful of spring winds, calmer days produce the best action.

Consistency improves dramatically after a few warm-weather windows.

Final Thoughts: Spring Brings Navarre’s Fishing to Life

From fast-moving Spanish mackerel to delicious pompano to active inshore trout and reds, spring unlocks some of the most exciting fishing Navarre has to offer. Warm days, clear water, and abundant species make this season a favorite for both locals and vacationing anglers.

If you’re visiting Navarre Beach in spring, don’t forget your rod, this is when the Gulf truly comes alive.

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