The recent rainfall has been a hidden blessing for Central Florida’s backwaters. It has cooled the shallow waters of Mosquito Lagoon and New Smyrna Beach, keeping the fish more active throughout the day. Snook, jacks, and tarpon have been feeding aggressively in the Intracoastal Waterway from Daytona Beach south to Mosquito Lagoon, with most of the action concentrated around bait pods, structure, and deeper edges.

Farther south, the shallow flats of New Smyrna Beach and Mosquito Lagoon are producing a strong trout, redfish, and black drum bite. Both live bait and artificial lures have been working well, especially following the recent drop in water temperatures. Occasional afternoon showers are expected to continue through next week, which should help keep the shallows cooler and the fish active.e