Last Updated on September 12, 2022 by Eric Bonneman
Crystal River is a world-famous destination for fishing, and September is an ideal time to visit if you’re hoping to snag a big one. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most common (and most sought-after) fish you can expect to find in Crystal River this time of year.
Crystal River in September
Fall is coming, but the temperature hasn’t changed just yet. It’s prime time for redfish with the spawn occurring right around now, bringing in those monster bull reds from deeper waters. Redfish aren’t the only fish we will see some action from this month though.
Here are some of the fish you can catch:
Redfish
Also known as red drum, redfish are saltwater fish that are popular among both recreational and commercial fishermen. They can be found in waters all along the Gulf Coast, and they’re especially plentiful in Crystal River during the fall months. Redfish typically range from 17 to 28 inches, although they can grow much larger—the largest ever was 94 lb! If you’re hoping to land a redfish on your next fishing trip, try using live bait like shrimp or crabs.
Snook
Snook is another saltwater fish that are commonly found in the waters around Crystal River. They’re a popular game fish due to their size and fighting ability, and they’re also considered to be excellent table fare. Snook typically can grow up to 48 inches in length. The Florida state record for the largest snook ever caught stands at 43 pounds, 12 ounces—a monster of a fish! If you’re looking to catch a snook of your own, a fishing charter might be the way to go, they’ll give you all the tips and tricks to get a fish on.
Speckled Trout
Spotted seatrout, speckled trout, or “speck” for short, is a member of the drum family, and they’re one of the most popular game fish in Florida. These fish are usually less than 25 inches but the gator trout can go over 30 inches. They are generally best targeted in spring, they’re not impossible to catch and are great to eat. They are worth it though so you may want to try your luck at landing one of these elusive fish.
Final Word
Crystal River is one of the best places in Florida to go fishing, and September is an ideal time to visit if you want to increase your chances of landing a big one. Redfish, snook, and speckled trout are all great catches this time of year. So grab your rod and reel—it’s time to go fishing!
If you want to know more about Crystal River fishing or do not want to have to invest in your own fishing equipment, you can book a fishing charter trip today! Fair Tides!
