Fort Lauderdale, Florida - Saltwater Fishing Report

It appears that the little bit of winter we had is already ending. The birds and fish seem to be heading north already. In the 20 years that I've been here this feels like the mildest season I can remember. The water temp gauge on my sonar unit never went below 74 degrees so far this year. This weeks readings are showing 77+ already. On the inshore scene the harbor is still quiet as far as the bait and predators go. The pilchard schools never popped up and that is a key part to our variety of action for port anglers. The tarpon are alittle more scattered than last month. Some anglers are still doing good up the New River and a few still slapping the surface around the 17th Street Bridge project. Speaking of the bridge, one new section is open and the old sections are on the way to 250 feet of water about 2 miles north of the inlet. The Jack Crevalles are cruising the canals, and these are big boys. We had some that went to 15 pounds plus in our canal this week. Being so close to pilings and boats almost force you into using your offshore tackle if you plan on getting a picture or getting you lure back. Check back for the latest. Captain Ron Mallet