Blackfin’s Guide To Better Bridge Fishing

As the weather warms up and the sunshine beckons you toward the water, what fishing hole are you visiting on your Blackfin fishing boat first? Some anglers may head far offshore for the serenity of the horizon — others to their beloved, local lake for some freshwater fun. Of course, you really can’t go wrong wherever you cast your first line of the season! But with that being said, there is one spot you might want to scope out if you’re looking to up your angling game: your nearest bay bridge.

If you haven’t already gone bridge fishing, you’re in for a treat! Smaller fish flock to the structure for shelter, and to snack on barnacles, mussels, and crustaceans. And of course, bigger fish like to snack on the smaller fish — so from an angler’s perspective, there’s a lot of activity going on.

Keep reading to learn more about the bridge environment — and how to reel in treasure from the pilings.

Follow The Sun

The old adage “the early bird gets the worm” generally holds true when it comes to fishing! Indeed, beating your fellow anglers to the water gives you a chance to stake out a spot and meet the hungry fish first. However, it’s not enough to just show up early — you also want to be strategic about where and when you cast your line. For example, bridges offer serious shade on hot days! So if you’re torn about where to start, opt to fish the open water while the day is still warming up — but when the hottest hours roll in, make sure you’re under the bridge to capitalize on shade-seeking fish.

Time Your Tides

Another important factor to consider? The tides! Because you’re fishing the inshore scene, you’ll want to know when they’re coming in and out, and time your bridge fishing accordingly. Times of transition (shortly before and after the daily tide changes) allow you to meet fish when they’re on the move, which is always a safe bet.

Know Your Terrain

There are several features to check out while bridge fishing! The actual pilings that hold up the bridge are an obvious one — but don’t forget about nearby sandbars that can change with the current and provide shallow-water opportunities; debris and rubble that form artificial reefs; and the occasional buoy that serves as a popular meeting spot for fish.

Bring Out The Live Bait

As we mentioned earlier, bridges are on-the-water hot spots for fish food — which means you’ll have to pull out all the stops to get your catch’s attention! That means bringing out the live bait to stir up a frenzy on the water. Several pros recommend bottom bouncing to encourage movement in the sand and mud below, especially in clear water where your line needs help going incognito.

What’s Biting?

After you’ve planned your perfect day of bridge fishing, what can you expect to see on the other end of your line? In short, lots! Depending on where in the world you’re fishing, some of the most common catches include snapper, tarpon, sharks, and more.

We hope that today’s guide helps enhance your bridge fishing adventure! Be sure to share photos of your best Blackfin catches — we can’t wait to see them.