So I'm new to Florida from Indiana. I have been fishing the Hillsborough River and had an amazing experience during the spawn, but now that summer is rolling in I've had some trouble finding them. Predominantly I like to junk fish basically flipping in over brush and thick cover. Can anybody from the south give me some pointers or ideas on where and how to fish a river down here?

Hi Lux,

 

Welcome to Florida.  River fishing can be easier than lake fishing as there is not as much water to cover.  A river does not have fish in all parts of the river and you need to keep track of the type of cover and conditions when you catch a fish.  The area you did well during the spawn may not hold any fish now.  During Florida's hot summers, in a river, the fish will find deeper water and shade.  Look for spots with deeper water with over hanging trees and cover in the water.  River fish also key on currant.  I don't remember if the Hillsborough is tide affected but that would influence the currant in the river.  If there is a dam that controls flow you need to know their schedule. 

 

Frank

So I'm new to Florida from Indiana. I have been fishing the Hillsborough River and had an amazing experience during the spawn, but now that summer is rolling in I've had some trouble finding them. Predominantly I like to junk fish basically flipping in over brush and thick cover. Can anybody from the south give me some pointers or ideas on where and how to fish a river down here?

We have a Florida fishing section topic, go to local fishing then go on SouthEast fishing forum and we will answer all you question about florida