Florida Fishing March Forecasts | Fish Florida Alliance

FLORIDA FISHING FORECASTS: MARCH

The following is the Fish Florida Alliance's curated list of local fishing forecasts around Florida. We share links and information from authoritative sources as well as "locals" to give you the best resource to plan your next fishing excursion. Check back before your next trip for the current fishing forecasts to the area.

March Saltwater Forecast Overview

As the iconic song by Bob Dylan suggests, things are indeed changing, especially when it comes to fishing in Florida in March. The arrival of spring brings with it warm weather that arrives early in the southern parts of the state, bringing new life to the waters. Book your fishing trip in advance to avoid the crowds of spring breakers who flock here, but remember that they come for a good reason!

In the Keys and Everglades, inshore fishing heats up, with the elusive "Silver King" (Tarpon) making an appearance, along with Permit and Bonefish. This provides an opportunity for an inshore "Grand Slam." Just be prepared for the challenge of landing one of these magnificent fish!

Don't miss the chance to also venture out to the reefs, as Groupers, Snappers, and Mackerel become active in the Keys. And the Panhandle also offers plenty of excitement, with Triggerfish joining the nearshore action, while Redfish remain a dominant presence inshore.

March Freshwater Overview

March is a prime freshwater fishing season for many species of fish, as bass and bream are preparing to move to shallower waters for spawning. Sunfish, bass and bluegill seek out shallow areas with sandy or firm soils and nearby vegetation to build their spawning beds. Shallow areas (2 to 6 feet deep) that are sheltered from current and wind are preferred by sunfish. Bass typically spawn before bluegill, preferring water temperatures around 60 to 65 degrees, while optimal temperatures for bluegill are around 65 to 80 degrees.

Other species such as redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, and crappie may also be in shallows at this time, and their activity is influenced by the moon, with full and new moons typically generating the most activity. March is a popular time for anglers who take advantage of the peak fishing activity during this time.