St. Marks lighthouse

[cotton]

I've never fished from the lighthouse before in my yak and planned to go exploring this weekend.
I've studied it on google maps and had some questions.

Is there anything fishy east of the lighthouse? Sand cove? Big cove? Or the flats?

With all the traffic, can you get across the channel to big pass? I've fished this with success in a boat before.

I'm guessing most folks head up East River.

Also, do they have a yearly pass you can buy for entering the park?

Anyone want to give me some tips? Thanks..

[Shorewalker]

I think you missed all of the experts that on the road to the Jax tourney, so you get me instead.

Yes, don't know, yes and yes.

Only been out there a time or two but yes there must be something east 'cause the last monthly meeting there (more than a year ago), one of the guys with local rep status headed that way . Given that he was headed into a pretty stout wind maybe the reason more went the other way. And he may have just wanted some open space.

Don't know about traffic to Big Pass.

Yes, most people headed to East River although that is not where the big fish came from. Again, it was pretty windy so that probably influenced the choice to head for shelter of the river.

Yes, you can get a yearly pass or a Federal Duck Stamp that used to be $15 ( I think). The advantage of the duck stamp it gets you into all of the other federal parks as well I think. I just remember thinking that the duck stamp is a better deal in most instances. The down side is the federal stamp is locked to a calendar date and I think the start/stop date is July 1 (see below). As for the exact details on the duck stamp please "trust but verify" me there.

Check here for more info (Jean's very timely info but remember that it is last year's info) http://www.fcka.net/phpbb3/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=3238&start=15#p17187

[aubill]

I've had luck at Big Cove and Stoney Bayou, pack a lunch if you go to SB.

[JimH]

To cross the river, follow the bars at low tide, or follow a gps map. The open channel isn't very wide. I've crossed it on Saturdays with no excitement , but the traffic will probably be a lot less Sunday am.

If you don't want to paddle far, just explore the bars and flats just out from the mouth of the East River... never know what might show up - I got my longest red (just above slot) and best jack crevalle (bigger than the red) in that area.

[i_brew_it]

Caught an over-slot red and nice size trout on topwater yesterday at dawn out on the long bar in front of the lighthouse. Stop there first and then head for the other bars closer to the East River. For one...it is very close to the put-in , I've had the most luck there during the early hours, and it won't have any protection from the wind...should it decide to pick up. Hit it early then head for the other bars.

[Shorewalker]

Year pass is $15. Shop doesn't open until 10:00 on Saturday. Bring check or cash for any pass purchase. Duck stamp still reset July 1.