Ladyfish Fishing in Steinhatchee, Florida
Ladyfish are aggressive, acrobatic fish that offer nonstop action for anglers around Steinhatchee. Known for their aerial jumps and high-speed runs, they’re commonly caught inshore on light tackle. While not a top choice for eating, they’re a blast to catch and great for introducing beginners to saltwater fishing.
Where to Catch Ladyfish
In the Steinhatchee area, ladyfish are commonly found around:
Open grass flats and sandy channels
Creek mouths and tidal cuts with baitfish
Nearshore Gulf waters when bait is running
They’re often seen chasing schools of glass minnows or shrimp, and are easily caught with small lures or jigs.
Best Time to Fish for Ladyfish
| Season | Ladyfish Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Active on grass flats and around bait schools |
| Summer | Peak activity with fast action nearshore and inshore |
| Fall | Good numbers continue until water cools |
Peak Season: May through September
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Small jigs, spoons, and flashy soft plastics
Bait: Live or dead shrimp and small baitfish
Leaders: 15–20 lb fluorocarbon
Technique: Cast and retrieve steadily near bait schools for quick hook-ups
