Fishing Sebastian Inlet State Park

On the East Coast of Florida is the Intracoastal Waterway; a unique system of brackish water filled with all kinds of fish. As you drive down the famous A1A Highway, you’ll see the Indian River to the west, and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean to the east. There are several cities dotting Florida’s Atlantic Coast, all with great fishing opportunities. But among the favorite fishing spots for anglers is without a doubt the Sebastian Inlet.

Located on the barrier island east of Sebastian, the Sebastian Inlet gives anglers access to both the Indian River and Atlantic Ocean. Locals and visitors alike can access the Sebastian Inlet at the Sebastian Inlet State Park. There’s a boat ramp on the southwest side of the inlet and two piers on the east side of the inlet. So whether you have a boat or not, this is a prime fishing spot for you and your fishing buddies!

Fishing at Sebastian Inlet

Fishing the inlet is almost always a good day for anglers. Twelve months of the year you’re sure to find someone casting a line (weather permitting). Some anglers opt for fishing from the shore or piers, while others will access the waters from a vessel. Depending on the time of year you’re casting your line, you can bring in a variety of inshore species.

In the summertime, Spanish Mackerel are found in good numbers. They are in the area throughout the year, but the month of June typically has the best numbers. Spanish Mackerel are thin, silver fish with yellow dots and dashes along its side. Anglers should cast their lines on the Atlantic Ocean side of the inlet with live or cut bait shrimp. Small spoons are also known to have successful results.

Fall months are the time to reel inshore favorites such as Redfish and Snook. Both are aggressive fighters that anglers enjoy reeling in. Redfish are bronze/tan colored fish with a distinct dot near the tail; while Snook are a silver fish with a black line running from head to tail. Whether it’s dots or lines you’re after, these fish will keep you on the edge of your seat. Drift live bait (shrimp for reds, pinfish for snook, or mullet for either) near the shore and wait for the tug on the line. Fish when the tide is on the move (which varies depending on season and time of day), and you’re sure to be reeling in a trophy-sized fish.

Other fish caught near Sebastian Inlet include Flounder, Mangrove Snapper, Pompano, Bluefish, and Sheepshead. Anglers who fish near the overpass of Highway A1A will certainly find Sheepshead; this is the place sheepshead go to enjoy the oyster bars found near the bridge’s pilings. Sheepshead are a wide fish with black and white vertical stripes along their body. They also have a mouth full of teeth, which they use to chomp on oysters and crabs. They also enjoy snacking on shrimp. Toss a crustacean near the bridge and you’ll hook a sheepshead in no time at all. Their numbers and smaller size make Sheepshead great for new or young anglers who are still getting the hang of the sport.

Most anglers will fish the Atlantic side of the inlet; but the Indian River side is also a great option. The water is typically calmer and those in smaller boats may feel more comfortable in the Intracoastal Waterway than the ocean. The water is calmer in the estuary, and anglers will get more casting opportunities here than fishing for the deep sea monsters.

The Sebastian Inlet is much easier to pass compared to other east coast inlets as well (such as Haulover Inlet in Miami), so if you are going out deep sea fishing, this is a great place to start. You’ll find pelagic fish such as Mahi Mahi, Kingfish, and Marlin not too far offshore.

Visiting Sebastian Inlet State Park

Sebastian Inlet State Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There is a small fee per vehicle for park entry, but your group will get to explore and have all sorts of adventures here. Along with fishing, there is a nature trail, mountain-bike trails, camping, surfing, swimming, and more. Bring your fishing buddies, friends, or families for a great day at the Sebastian Inlet. Whether you’re fishing from a boat, the shore, or one of the piers, you’re destined for a memorable and fun day. Want to check the scene before you arrive? Check out the Sebastian Inlet Camera and see what’s in store for you! Caution, one look and you’ll be ready to transport yourself to Sebastian Inlet and start your adventure!