St. Augustine fishing report for the week of October 15, 2026. The fall bait migration is arriving, and the inlet and the marsh are loading up with redfish and flounder.
What’s Hitting
Bull reds are at the inlet and nearshore on the beach, and redfish are schooled in the marsh creeks. Flounder are staging near the inlet and creek mouths ahead of the fall run, whiting and pompano are in the surf, and sheepshead are around the bridges and docks. Speckled trout are holding on the grass edges.
Looking ahead, the flounder run should build as water temperatures drop, and bull reds will remain in the inlet area through the fall.
Where to Find Them
Fish the St. Augustine Inlet on the outgoing tide for bull reds and flounder, and work the Matanzas River marsh creeks for redfish. From the surf at Vilano Beach and Anastasia State Park, whiting and pompano gather in the troughs.
Tides & Conditions
Tides are easing as the moon builds toward first quarter. The outgoing tide at the inlet is the key window, and early morning is the best light. Check a current tide chart before heading out.
Tackle & Tactics
Mud minnows and finger mullet on a Carolina rig are tough to beat for flounder. For bull reds, cut mullet or menhaden on a heavy circle hook works, and a gold spoon fits the marsh. Surf anglers should use sand flea or shrimp on a pompano rig.
In the marsh, a quiet approach pays off, and a weedless gold spoon is a good choice around the grass. At the inlet, plan your trip around the tide and bring enough weight to hold bottom in the current.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes the Vilano Boat Ramp, the Salt Run ramp at Anastasia State Park, and the St. Augustine Pier for surf anglers. Fish are concentrating at the inlet, the creek mouths and the bridge pilings. Check current FWC regulations and seasons before keeping any fish, especially redfish and flounder.
This Week’s Tip
Be patient with flounder. Let the bait settle and drag it slowly, and give the fish a moment before setting the hook.
More St. Augustine Resources
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