Indian River Lagoon fishing report for the week of September 24, 2026. Fall high water has arrived in the lagoon. With the equinox just past and the full moon on Saturday, water levels are up, the shorelines are flooded, and the mullet are pouring through the system. It is one of the best weeks of the year to fish the lagoon.
What’s Hitting
This week, speckled trout are feeding on finger mullet along the grass flats and spoil islands, and there are some gator trout in the mix early. Redfish are pushing up into the flooded shoreline grass and mangroves on the high tides, and snook are stacked at Sebastian Inlet, the Fort Pierce Inlet, and along the causeways. Jacks and ladyfish are busting bait in the open lagoon, and a few tarpon are rolling around the bridges at dawn.
Where to Find Them
Look for trout along the grass flats and spoil islands between Vero Beach and Sebastian, especially where mullet schools are present. For redfish, work the flooded shorelines of the Banana River and the east side of the lagoon near Sebastian. Snook are at the Sebastian Inlet jetties and around the Fort Pierce Inlet, as well as the Wabasso and Barber bridges.
Tides & Conditions
Water levels are running high with the seasonal high water and the full moon. That spreads the redfish out along the shorelines, but also gives them more places to hide. Water temperatures are in the upper 70s to low 80s. The best bite has been early in the morning before the wind picks up.
Tackle & Tactics
For trout, a topwater plug at first light or a soft plastic on a light jig head over the grass is a great choice. A live finger mullet or shrimp under a popping cork also works. For redfish in the flooded shorelines, a weedless gold spoon or a soft plastic rigged weedless lets you get back into the grass. For snook at the inlets, a live mullet or a bucktail is the best option.
Local Intel This Week
The Sebastian Inlet State Park offers great jetty access for snook and other species. The Wabasso Causeway and the Jensen Beach Causeway have shore fishing access. For boaters, the Kiwanis Island ramp and the Sebastian Yacht Club ramp are good options. Fish are concentrating along the flooded shorelines and grass flats. Check current FWC regulations, slot sizes, and seasons before keeping fish, and note that trout and redfish rules in the lagoon have changed in recent years.
This Week’s Tip
When the water is high, redfish will push deep into the mangroves and grass. Instead of fishing the outside edge, look for small cuts and pockets in the shoreline where the fish can ambush bait. A weedless lure is essential for getting back into these areas.
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