Where They Live
Pompano run the first trough along the surf line — the depression between the shoreline and the first sandbar. Look for cuts and holes in the sandbar where tidal water pushes through and concentrates bait.
When to Fish
Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–November). Spring is the prime run as pompano push north following warming water. Fall fish tend to be bigger.
Best Tide
Incoming to high tide is the money window. Pompano move in with the tide to feed in the shallower wash zone. The hour before and after high water is consistently best.
How to Catch Them
- —Sand fleas (mole crabs) are the top natural bait — dig them from the wash zone at low tide.
- —Fishbites orange crab and shrimp strips produce when natural bait is unavailable.
- —Hi-lo rigs with small foam floats keep the bait off the bottom and in the feeding zone.
- —Keep your bait in the trough — cast just beyond the first wave break.
- —Small pyramid sinkers (1–2oz) in mild surf; step up to 3–4oz in heavy chop.
- —Light 10–15lb leader. Pompano have decent eyesight and clear water calls for light tackle.
From the Shack
Walk the beach until you see the trough. It looks like a darker strip of water running parallel to the shore. That is where your bait needs to be — not right at the waterline, not past the bar.
Top Rigs & Lures
- Pompano Hi-Lo Rig
- Sand Flea Rig
Every Week
What's Biting Right Now
Conditions, species, tides, and what's working — straight from the water.
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