Ladyfish Fishing in Clearwater / St. Pete Beach, Florida
Ladyfish are fun, hard-hitting inshore fish often called “poor man’s tarpon.” They’re not valued as table fare but are great for action and bait. These acrobatic fish are commonly found in bays and along beaches, especially around bait schools.
Where to Catch Ladyfish
Look for ladyfish in:
Open bays and flats with bait
Tidal creeks and estuary mouths
Near beaches, especially at dawn and dusk
They’ll strike flashy lures and move in fast schools with birds often diving nearby.
Best Time to Fish for Ladyfish in Clearwater / St. Pete Beach
| Season | Ladyfish Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Good as fish push into inshore waters |
| Summer | Excellent—very active and aggressive |
| Fall | Good until bait leaves the bays |
Peak Season: Summer
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Small spoons, jigs, flashy plugs
Bait: Shrimp or small baitfish free-lined or drifted
Leaders: 20–25 lb fluorocarbon
Gear: Light spinning tackle with fast retrieve
