North Indian River Lagoon
The closest inshore fishing to Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other attractions is the Indian River Lagoon. Just minutes from Orlando International Airport, this 150+ mile Lagoon stretches all the way to Jupiter Inlet to the south moving through areas like Cocoa Beach, Sebastian and Vero Beach. The North Indian River Lagoon is without a doubt the premier stop in Florida for GIANT trophy redfish and spotted sea trout, serving as home to the state record for both species.
Indian River Lagoon Redfish generally dominate the fishing scene. While fish seem to be longer in the Mosquito Lagoon, the North Indian River Lagoon is definitely the place for the heavyweights. Here giant bull redfish extend nearly 4 feet in length; with some weighing over 50lbs. There are likely new state record redfish in the Indian River Lagoon, but the Florida slot limit practically rules out getting any to be certified legally. In addition to the bull redfish, wide shallow grass flats hold many 5-10lb redfish either in schools, small pods, or singles.
Spotted Sea Trout are another staple of Indian River Lagoon fishing. Trout, especially those of the "gator" variety, are an abundant fish in this body of water and the fishing can be exceptional. Here along Florida ’s east coast, large sow females, known as “gator trout” can reach lengths over 30 inches and weigh as much as 17-18lbs. Tthe Florida spotted sea trout record, as well as the world record spotted sea trout, was caught in the Indian River Lagoon and weighed over 17lbs.
During the spring, Indian River Lagoon Tarpon begin to show themselves. Small juveniles in the 5-10lb range begin to move from their remote backwater homes out into the open waters. At it's peak, most residential canals, deep channels, and cuts are full of small juvenile tarpon. After their summer spawn, large adult tarpon over 100lbs begin to fill in before heading south for the winters.
Snook also become more plentiful as you venture south in the Indian River Lagoon towards Cocoa Beach. Residential areas and mangrove backcountry become great places to search for quality snook in this area. Average fish here are anywhere from 5-10lbs, with some trophies weighing more than 30lbs.
Black drum are also year round residents and can be found on the flats, in canals, around bridges and other deep holes. An elusive fish, black drum are hard fighters. Most fish range from 5-20lbs, but some trophy giants weighing more than 50lbs are not out of the question.
The North Indian River Lagoon is also home to the Kennedy Space Center. The Space Coast riverfront is the closest viewing point for yearly shuttle launches and is regularly packed with visitors from around the world to watch this breathtaking event. Here the Indian River Lagoon is bordered on it's eastern edge by the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Thousands of acres of freshwater impoundments and marsh are heavily managed for wading birds and migrating waterfowl. The Refuge is also home to many alligators, manatees, dolphins, otters, raccoons and many more.
