AUTHOR
NOTES
What’s Biting from the Sand in Santa Rosa Beach This Week
Santa Rosa Island - Santa Rosa, FL
The Gulf waters along Santa Rosa Beach have been clear to lightly stained, with surface temperatures hovering in the mid-70s. Morning tides have been producing the most action, especially during the incoming tide windows. Light surf and gentle winds have created favorable conditions for shore anglers.
What’s Biting:
Pompano are still active along the sandbars. Most catches are coming early morning, using live sand fleas or Fishbites in pink or orange. A double-drop rig with 1/0 circle hooks has worked best.
Whiting are biting consistently close to shore on fresh shrimp pieces. Great option for kids and casual anglers.
Spanish mackerel have been running just beyond the breakers. Anglers tossing Gotcha plugs or silver spoons are landing them during low-light hours.
Ladyfish and small bluefish are mixed in with the Spanish, providing some exciting action on lighter tackle.
A few redfish are being caught at dawn and dusk, especially near outflows and cuts in the bar. Use cut mullet or shrimp on a Carolina rig for best results.
Gear Tips:
Bring a 7’–10’ surf rod to cover casting distance needs.
Use 20–30 lb braided line with a fluorocarbon leader for stealth.
A pyramid sinker (2–4 oz) helps hold in place with shifting sands.
Keep an eye out for birds diving offshore—it’s often a sign of mackerel or baitfish schools pushing close. Sunrise sessions continue to produce the best bite window, with a noticeable drop-off by late morning.
It’s a great time to be surf fishing in Santa Rosa Beach. With pompano still hanging around and summer species moving in, the shoreline is alive with opportunities. Don’t forget the sunscreen, and check local tide charts to plan your trip around those peak times.