Best Fish to Catch in Cocoa Beach This April

Best Fish to Catch in Cocoa Beach This April

Cocoa Beach, Florida, is a top destination for anglers looking to reel in some of the best catches of the season. April is an exciting month for fishing, with warming waters bringing a variety of fish species closer to shore. Whether you’re casting from the beach, fishing in the Indian River Lagoon, or heading offshore, here’s a guide to the top fish to catch in Cocoa Beach this April.

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1. Pompano

April is prime time for Florida pompano, a favorite among surf fishermen. These hard-fighting fish are often caught along the sandy shores of Cocoa Beach using sand fleas, shrimp, or clams.

Best Spot: Surf fishing along Cocoa Beach and Playalinda Beach.
Best Bait: Sand fleas, shrimp, or clams.
Why It’s Great: Delicious table fare and exciting fights on light tackle.

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2. Snook

As the water warms up, snook start making their way from deeper waters into the shallows. They can be found along docks, mangroves, and jetties, providing an exciting challenge for anglers.

Best Spot: Indian River Lagoon and Sebastian Inlet.
Best Bait: Live mullet, shrimp, or artificial lures.
Why It’s Great: Hard-hitting and strong fighters, making them a thrilling catch.

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3. Redfish

April is an excellent time to target redfish, especially in the flats and near oyster bars. These powerful fish are known for their aggressive bites and strong runs.

Best Spot: Indian River Lagoon and Banana River.
Best Bait: Cut bait, live shrimp, or gold spoons.
Why It’s Great: A local favorite, often caught in shallow waters for great sight-fishing opportunities.

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4. King Mackerel (Kingfish)

For those heading offshore, king mackerel (kingfish) start showing up in large numbers in April. These fast swimmers put up an incredible fight and are a staple of Florida fishing.

Best Spot: Nearshore reefs and wrecks.
Best Bait: Live baitfish like pogies or trolling spoons.
Why It’s Great: High-speed runs and excellent for smoking or grilling.

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5. Sheepshead

If you’re looking for a tasty catch, sheepshead are still biting in April. These fish love hanging around docks, piers, and pilings, feeding on crustaceans.

Best Spot: Bridges, docks, and nearshore structures.
Best Bait: Fiddler crabs, shrimp, or barnacles.
Why It’s Great: Excellent table fare with sweet, flaky meat.

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6. Cobia

April marks the cobia migration along Florida’s Space Coast, with these fish often spotted near floating debris or following manta rays.

Best Spot: Nearshore waters and offshore wrecks.
Best Bait: Live eels, crabs, or bucktail jigs.
Why It’s Great: One of the hardest-fighting fish, making for an exciting battle.

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7. Spotted Seatrout

A classic inshore species, spotted seatrout can be found in the grassy flats and backwaters of the Indian River Lagoon.

Best Spot: Shallow grass flats and near drop-offs.
Best Bait: Live shrimp, soft plastics, or topwater lures.
Why It’s Great: Fun on light tackle and great for a fresh fish dinner.

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Fishing Tips for April in Cocoa Beach

• Check the Tides: Fishing around moving tides increases your chances of success.
• Use Live Bait: Many species prefer live bait over artificial lures in the warming waters.
• Early Mornings & Evenings: Fish are most active during these cooler parts of the day.
• Book a Fishing Charter: Local guides know the best spots and techniques for landing trophy fish.

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Plan Your Cocoa Beach Fishing Trip This April!

With a variety of fish species biting in April, Cocoa Beach is a must-visit destination for any angler. Whether you’re surf fishing, inshore fishing, or heading offshore, you’ll find plenty of action waiting for you. Grab your gear, hit the water, and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure!

🎣 Ready to cast your line? Book a fishing trip in Cocoa Beach today and make the most of the spring season!