Pompano work the surf zone — the first and second sandbars off the 904 beaches from Amelia Island down through Ponte Vedra and St. Augustine. They follow sand fleas and small crabs in the wash. Pier ends and beach access points are productive. They run in small schools, so when you catch one, others are usually nearby.
Compressed silvery body with a yellowish belly, deeply forked tail, no scales on the cheek (distinguishing them from permit). Florida minimum 11 inches, daily bag of 6. Most caught are 1-3 lb; a 4-pounder is trophy class.
Two major runs in NE FL — spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) — when water temps are in the 65-75°F range. Summer they push north or to deeper water. Winter mostly absent from local water. The runs are short windows; when they're on, hit them every day, and when they're off, focus on something else.
Long surf rod, pompano rig (double drop with floats), sand fleas or fresh shrimp on each hook, cast to the second bar at dawn during a falling tide. Floats above the hooks lift the bait above the wash where pompano hunt. Keep your bait fresh — pompano hate dead or stale shrimp. Small subtle presentations beat big chunks every time.
Florida fishing regulations change. Always confirm slot, bag limits, and seasons on the official source before you keep anything. See our Licenses & Regulations page or go straight to MyFWC.com.