Ladyfish Fishing in Stuart, Florida
Ladyfish are fast, acrobatic fish that frequent inshore waters around Stuart. While not considered top-tier table fare, they provide non-stop fun, especially for youth anglers. These silver torpedoes chase baitfish in the rivers, lagoons, and near the beaches — often feeding in frenzies and hitting lures aggressively.
Where to Catch Ladyfish
Ladyfish are most common:
In the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River
Near inlets, seawalls, and docks
Along beaches during baitfish migrations
Under birds chasing bait schools
Best Time to Fish for Ladyfish
| Season | Ladyfish Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Very active chasing bait |
| Summer | Consistent in rivers and lagoons |
| Fall | Aggressive during mullet runs |
Peak Season: March through May & September through October
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Spoons, topwater plugs, and soft plastics
Bait: Small live minnows or shrimp
Leaders: 20–30 lb mono
Gear: Light spinning gear for fast casting and retrieval
