Doctors Inlet, St. Johns River, and Black Creek

During the fall, the fish here are always on the move, covering water to find them is critical. Sportfish are tied to the movements of the baitfish and shrimp up and down the river. Finding these food sources is going to be more important than finding any specific type of habitat. However, in the lower sections of the main river vegetation and good cover is scarce, so finding some submersed or emergent vegetation can pay off big. Doctor’s inlet and the tributaries including the Ortega River, Julington Creek, and Black Creek can offer more productive habitat and consistent fishing success. The middle and lower stretches of the tributaries are going to hold more fish than the upper stretches. Fallen trees or in areas of Spatterdock pads are the most likely places to hold bass and bream. When fishing in the creeks for bass try crayfish imitations or other soft plastics. In more open water try shad imitations like jerk baits, spinner baits, crank baits, and spoons.  Baits that imitate shrimp are also always a good bet during the fall shrimp run. Fall on the St. John’s River also offers good fishing for mullet. Anglers can catch these fish many ways, the most popular methods are cast netting, snagging or with small hooks baited with bread balls or home-made dough bait.