Today, December 19, 2024, if you're planning to head out fishing in St. Augustine, here's what you need to know:
First off, the sunrise is at 7:15 AM, and the sunset will be at 5:29 PM, giving you about 10 hours and 14 minutes of daylight[2][5].
Tide-wise, the first high tide is at 6:18 AM, followed by a low tide at 12:17 PM, and then another high tide at 6:33 PM. The tidal coefficient is high today, indicating strong tides and currents, which can be beneficial for fishing[3].
The recent heavy rains have left the water a bit stained, but it's clearing up steadily. This condition hasn't deterred the fish, though. Large redfish are still being caught around the inlets and bridges, particularly on live finger mullet. I've had success using topwater lures for redfish, especially in the shallower waters[1].
The black drum bite has been solid, with good catches on both live and fresh dead shrimp. Trout action is also heating up as we move further into fall. Remember, flounder season is still closed, so be mindful of that while fishing. Mangrove snapper are still around but won't be for much longer as the waters cool[1].
For bait, live finger mullet and shrimp are your best bets. If you're looking to use lures, topwater plugs and soft plastics have been effective for redfish and trout.
Hot spots include the areas around the St. Augustine Inlet and the bridges connecting the mainland to the barrier islands. The Intracoastal Waterway and its many creeks and backcountry estuaries are also prime locations, especially for those targeting redfish and trout[4].
Keep an eye on the weather and tidal conditions, as they can significantly impact your fishing experience. With the high tidal coefficient today, expect some strong currents, but this can also bring in more fish. Happy fishing