Sebastian Inlet

Sebastian Inlet State Park sits at the border of Brevard and Indian River counties, and it's widely considered one of the premier fishing destinations in all of Florida. The inlet connects the Indian River Lagoon to the Atlantic Ocean, creating a powerful tidal flow that attracts an incredible concentration of game fish — especially snook, which have made this spot legendary.

The inlet features two rock jetties that extend into the ocean, a series of catwalks along the north side of the inlet channel, and miles of pristine beach on both the north and south sides. Each of these areas offers distinctly different fishing opportunities, making Sebastian Inlet a place where you could fish every day for a week and have a completely different experience each time.

The north jetty is the most popular fishing spot at the inlet. Anglers line up along the rocks to cast jigs, live bait, and plugs into the current that sweeps through the inlet. During the snook spawn (May through September), this area can be shoulder-to-shoulder with anglers casting into the outgoing tide. The north jetty is also excellent for sheepshead in winter — drop fiddler crabs tight to the rocks and hold on.

The south jetty is accessible via the state park on the south side and tends to be less crowded. It offers similar fishing to the north jetty but with more room to spread out. Tarpon cruise along the south jetty during summer months, and bluefish can be caught here year-round on cut bait or metal jigs.

The catwalks run along the north side of the inlet channel and provide elevated platforms to fish from. They're excellent for snook fishing at night — the lights attract baitfish, which in turn attract snook. Cast live pilchards, croakers, or white jigs up-current and let them sweep under the lights. Some of the biggest snook caught at Sebastian come from the catwalks after dark.

The beach fishing on both sides of the inlet is underrated. The beach just north and south of the jetties holds pompano, whiting, and bluefish year-round. During the mullet run (typically September through November), the beach can produce snook, tarpon, jacks, and even the occasional shark. Surf fishing with cut mullet or sand fleas on a fish-finder rig is a simple and productive approach.

Access and parking: Sebastian Inlet State Park charges a per-vehicle entry fee ($8 as of 2026). The north side has a large parking area near the jetty and catwalks. The south side parking is inside the state park. Both sides have restrooms, bait shops, and picnic areas. The park opens at 8 AM, but serious anglers can purchase an annual pass that allows entry before dawn — crucial for catching the early morning bite.

One important note: Sebastian Inlet has specific regulations for snook fishing, including seasonal closures and slot limits. Always check the current FWC regulations before targeting snook here. The inlet is heavily patrolled, and enforcement is strict — as it should be, to protect this incredible fishery.