East Bay River is a River located in Santa Rosa County, FL. Starting in Fort Walton Beach, FL the East Bay River flows 19 miles through Mary Esther, FL before ending in Navarre, FL. Find maps, fishing guides, weather and recreation information at Guidesly.

About East Bay River, FL

East Bay River is a 15-mile stream located in Santa Rosa County. It also comes by different names such as East River, The River Jordan, Rio Jordan, or Chester River. The East Bay River forms by Hurlburt Field and then flows west before emptying into East Bay. Its notable tributaries are Panther Creek, Alligator Creek, and Turtle Creek.

The East Bay River was discovered by Spanish explorers in 1693 when they were scouting for potential colonization sites in Northwest Florida. An officer that contributed significantly to the voyage was named Captain Jordan de Reina, which explains why the river was previously called “The River Jordan” or “Rio Jordan.” 

Today, East Bay River is now a popular recreational destination among locals and tourists alike. While motorboats are allowed in the river, most visitors prefer kayaking or canoeing as some parts of the river are very shallow. The river is also open to individuals seeking to enjoy water activities, with fishing being the most popular activity out of all. 

All About Fishing in East Bay River, FL

The East Bay River is a sizable body of water that is home to many different fish species. Redfish, speckled trout, white trout, and largemouth bass are all common species caught here. The East Bay River is surrounded by lush foliage both above and below the water's surface, which allows fish to reside and feed within the branches.

Because of the East Bay River's span, anglers could use various fishing strategies because different areas of the river have varied features. Anglers in the East Bay River prefer spinning, jigging, fly fishing, and baitcasting as fishing methods. Anglers of all skill levels may enjoy a bountiful catch due to the fish and diversity of fish species found in the river.

Anglers are recommended to use natural bait such as worms and insects because the East Bay River is surrounded by aquatic vegetation, trees, and plants. On the other hand, Locals suggest that minnow or shrimp scrap draws a lot of fish in the area. Anglers can also use the docks at the East Bay River's mouth, which makes it simple to set up a line and fish from. Anglers should utilize circle hooks because they make it easy to release fish, especially when the fish caught is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Ultimately, it is recommended to avoid well-lit locations when fishing from the docks, especially when targeting trout, as they prefer to swim around darker regions. 

Fishing Seasonality

Throughout the year, the East Bay River is loaded with fish. Anglers should, however, consider the time of year when arranging a fishing trip, especially if they are seeking a specific species of fish. Largemouth bass is most plentiful for anglers targeting them between March and May. Anglers looking for trout species should plan visits in January and February. 

Aside from the time of year, the weather plays a crucial role in planning fishing trips in the East Bay River. Temperature is also considered an essential element in the behavior of the fish in this area, especially during the summer. When the water temperature is warm, fish migrate to deeper areas because colder water encourages them to swim deeper. Anglers that plan visits to the shallow portions of the lake river should go early in the morning or late at night. It's also advised not to fish along the docks during these hours because the tides are more aggressive and are known to produce more disturbance underwater, causing fish to avoid these areas. 

Fishing Seasonality

Throughout the year, the East Bay River is loaded with fish. Anglers should, however, consider the time of year when arranging a fishing trip, especially if they are seeking a specific species of fish. Largemouth bass is most plentiful for anglers targeting them between March and May. Anglers looking for trout species should plan visits in January and February. 

Aside from the time of year, the weather plays a crucial role in planning fishing trips in the East Bay River. Temperature is also considered an essential element in the behavior of the fish in this area, especially during the summer. When the water temperature is warm, fish migrate to deeper areas because colder water encourages them to swim deeper. Anglers that plan visits to the shallow portions of the lake river should go early in the morning or late at night. It's also advised not to fish along the docks during these hours because the tides are more aggressive and are known to produce more disturbance underwater, causing fish to avoid these areas. 

All About Fishing in East Bay River, FL

The East Bay River is a sizable body of water that is home to many different fish species. Redfish, speckled trout, white trout, and largemouth bass are all common species caught here. The East Bay River is surrounded by lush foliage both above and below the water's surface, which allows fish to reside and feed within the branches.

Because of the East Bay River's span, anglers could use various fishing strategies because different areas of the river have varied features. Anglers in the East Bay River prefer spinning, jigging, fly fishing, and baitcasting as fishing methods. Anglers of all skill levels may enjoy a bountiful catch due to the fish and diversity of fish species found in the river.

Anglers are recommended to use natural bait such as worms and insects because the East Bay River is surrounded by aquatic vegetation, trees, and plants. On the other hand, Locals suggest that minnow or shrimp scrap draws a lot of fish in the area. Anglers can also use the docks at the East Bay River's mouth, which makes it simple to set up a line and fish from. Anglers should utilize circle hooks because they make it easy to release fish, especially when the fish caught is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Ultimately, it is recommended to avoid well-lit locations when fishing from the docks, especially when targeting trout, as they prefer to swim around darker regions.