Spring Pompano Run, Trophy Trout, and Early Spanish Mackerel

In this week's Northwest Florida Fishing Report, host Joe Baya covers a strong early spring shift with the surf bite turning on, big trout showing up in Pensacola-area backwaters, and offshore anglers working around windy weather. This episode features Justin Reed on a full-blown pompano run from Pensacola to Navarre, Brandon Barton on topwater trout in transition areas, and Capt. Tyler Massey of Hot Spots Charters on Spanish mackerel and early scamp season opportunities. The big theme this week is that spring patterns are taking shape across the region, but success still depends on adjusting to conditions and staying flexible.

Joe starts in the surf with Justin Reed with Justin Reed Fishing, who says the pompano run is officially on, with schools of fish moving the beaches and consistent action for anglers fishing the sandbars. He breaks down how to pick productive water, space rods, choose colors, and adjust baits and rigs to stay on fish during the migration.

Next, Joe checks in with Brandon Barton with Emerald Waters Kayak Charters for an inshore report from the Pensacola area. Brandon says big trout are setting up in transition zones around creeks and bayous, with bait getting pushed out and topwater lures producing some of the better fish of the week. He also explains why stealth, long casts, and covering similar types of water are key right now.

To wrap up, Joe heads offshore with Capt. Tyler Massey of Hot Spots Charters. Tyler says rough weather has limited offshore trips, but Spanish mackerel have arrived near Pensacola Beach and are providing fun action for anglers trolling or casting. He also shares that bottom fishing remains productive, with scamp season reopening and live bait becoming easier to find as water temperatures rise.

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