Spring is a magical time for coastal anglers across the U.S. As water temperatures rise and migratory patterns kick in, fish become more active and accessible from shorelines, piers, estuaries, and boats. Whether you’re on the Atlantic, Gulf, or Pacific coast, spring offers excellent opportunities to catch a variety of prized species. Here’s what you should be targeting this season by region.

Atlantic Coast

From the Carolinas up through the Northeast, spring brings a surge of activity to the Atlantic seaboard.

• Striped Bass: One of the most sought-after game fish on the Atlantic coast, stripers begin their northward migration in spring. Look for them in estuaries, rivers, and surf zones, especially in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions.
• Bluefish: As water temps climb into the mid-50s and above, bluefish begin showing up in schools along the coast. They’re aggressive, hard-fighting, and will hit both bait and lures with enthusiasm.
• Flounder: Spring is a great time to target flounder (or fluke) as they move from deeper waters into shallows to feed. Fish near sandy bottoms, inlets, and grass flats using live bait or jigs.
• Black Drum & Redfish: In the southern Atlantic states like Georgia and the Carolinas, black drum and redfish are active inshore during spring, especially around oyster beds and marshes.

Gulf Coast

From Texas to Florida’s west coast, the Gulf offers excellent spring fishing for both inshore and nearshore species.

• Speckled Trout (Spotted Sea Trout): Spring is prime time for specks, especially in grassy flats and estuaries. They respond well to live shrimp and soft plastics.
• Redfish (Red Drum): Active year-round, redfish become more accessible in shallow waters during spring. Look for them tailing on the flats or near structure.
• Spanish Mackerel: These fast-swimming predators begin their spring migration along the Gulf and are often found near beaches, passes, and piers.
• Cobia: Often found cruising near the surface or around buoys and rays, cobia start appearing in spring, especially in the northern Gulf waters.
• Sheepshead: Found around pilings, bridges, and jetties, sheepshead are known for their fight and love for crustaceans like fiddler crabs and shrimp.

Pacific Coast

From Southern California to the Pacific Northwest, spring marks the beginning of several exciting fishing seasons.

• Surfperch: Especially popular in California and Oregon, surfperch are active in the spring surf and can be caught using sand crabs, shrimp, or small lures.
• Halibut: California halibut begin moving into shallower waters in the spring, offering good inshore action for those fishing bays, harbors, and nearshore zones.
• Salmon (Chinook/Kings): In the Pacific Northwest, spring Chinook runs begin in rivers like the Columbia and Sacramento. These early-season kings are prized for both their fight and flavor.
• Rockfish: As the season opens in many areas, rockfish become a go-to target along reefs and rocky coastlines. Great for bottom fishing from boats or head boats.
• Lingcod: Spring marks the start of lingcod season in many areas along the Northern Pacific. These aggressive bottom dwellers are often caught on jigs or baited rigs.

Spring Coastal Fishing Tips

• Watch the Water Temperature: Many species become active once the water hits specific temperature thresholds—tracking this can greatly improve your success.
• Follow the Migration: Many springtime fish are migratory—stay informed through local reports or state fish and wildlife resources.
• Adjust Tactics: As fish move into shallow waters in spring, lighter tackle, finesse presentations, and stealth become more important, especially in clear water.

No matter which coast you’re near, spring opens up some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. With so many species on the move and feeding, it’s the perfect time to dust off your gear, hit the water, and enjoy the excitement of coastal fishing at its best.