There’s something magical about the Cotee River (formally known as the Pithlachascotee River) that draws you in the moment you set foot along its banks. Winding through Pasco County, this serene river offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from freshwater species upstream to saltwater favorites as it approaches the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, the Cotee River has something to offer, making it one of the best-kept secrets in the area.
As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring its waters, I can say that the Cotee River is one of my favorite spots to fish, not only because of its variety of species but also for the peaceful, natural beauty that surrounds you. In this review, I’ll take you through what makes the Cotee River a standout fishing destination, offer practical tips, and share a few personal stories from my time on the water.
The Beauty of the Cotee River: A Perfect Mix of Fresh and Saltwater Fishing
One of the things that make Cotee River so unique is its blend of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems. As you fish upriver, you’ll primarily be targeting freshwater species like largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. But as you move downstream toward the Gulf, the water becomes brackish and eventually salty, which opens the door to species like redfish, snook, and tarpon.
For me, this variety is one of the best things about fishing the Cotee River. You can fish the same stretch of water and have an entirely different experience depending on where you are and what species you’re after. It’s like having two fishing trips rolled into one.
Fishing the Freshwater Section: Bass, Bluegill, and Catfish
If you’re more into freshwater fishing, the upper reaches of the Cotee River are perfect for you. The river winds through wooded areas, creating plenty of shaded spots where fish like to hide. One of my go-to areas is around James E. Grey Preserve, where the river narrows and the water becomes slower-moving.
Species You Can Catch:
- Largemouth Bass: The Cotee River is known for its solid bass fishing, especially in the freshwater sections. On more than one occasion, I’ve landed some decent-sized bass, particularly around submerged logs and lily pads.
- Bluegill and Panfish: If you’re looking for something a little easier or bringing kids along, bluegill and other panfish are plentiful here. These fish are especially fun for novice anglers and are a great way to introduce kids to fishing.
- Catfish: For those who like bottom fishing, catfish are fairly common in the slower sections of the river. I’ve had good luck using cut bait or nightcrawlers, especially in the evenings when the catfish are more active.
Personal Tip: When fishing for largemouth bass, I’ve had the most success with soft plastic worms and spinnerbaits. I like to cast near cover, like fallen trees or overhanging branches. The bass in the Cotee River can be a bit elusive, but when they strike, it’s worth the wait.
Moving Downstream: Brackish to Saltwater Transition
As you follow the river downstream, something amazing happens—the water starts to change. Suddenly, you’re in brackish territory, and with that comes a whole new range of species to target. It’s almost like nature’s way of giving you a whole new fishing adventure without even needing to leave the river.
By the time you reach areas closer to Port Richey and the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll find saltwater species like snook, redfish, and even tarpon during certain times of the year.
Species You Can Catch:
- Snook: This is probably the fish most anglers come to the Cotee River for, and for good reason. Snook love the brackish waters and can often be found lurking around the docks and mangroves that line the lower river. They’re smart and fast, making them a thrilling challenge for any angler.
- Redfish: Another popular target, redfish tend to hang out in the shallower waters where the river meets the Gulf. I’ve had several days where redfish made the trip downriver more than worth it.
- Tarpon: While tarpon aren’t as common in the Cotee River as they are in other areas, they do make an appearance, especially during the warmer months. Hooking into one of these giants is an unforgettable experience, though you’ll need some heavier tackle to stand a chance.
A Personal Story: My First Snook on the Cotee
One of my favorite fishing memories on the Cotee River happened just south of Sims Park, where the river starts to widen out. I had launched my kayak earlier that morning and was fishing with some live shrimp near the mangroves. The tide was moving out, and I could feel something was about to happen. Sure enough, I felt a strong pull, and I knew right away it was a snook.
Snook are no joke. They’re fast, and they’ll test every bit of your angling skills. After a few heart-pounding minutes, I managed to reel in a beautiful snook, easily one of the largest I’ve caught on the Cotee. It wasn’t just the catch that made that moment special, but the whole atmosphere—the quiet, the water, and the thrill of it all. It’s one of those memories that keeps you coming back.
Best Time to Fish: Early Morning and Late Afternoon Success
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from fishing the Cotee River, it’s that timing is everything. Like most fishing spots, early morning and late afternoon tend to be the best times to fish. Not only is the weather cooler, but the fish are more active during these parts of the day.
Tide Matters: In the brackish and saltwater sections, paying attention to the tides can make or break your fishing trip. I’ve had the best success fishing an incoming tide, especially for species like redfish and snook. The moving water tends to stir up baitfish, which in turn gets the predators feeding.
Kayak Fishing on the Cotee River: A Must-Try Experience
One of the things that make the Cotee River stand out for me is how great it is for kayak fishing. The river isn’t too wide, and there are plenty of areas where boats can’t reach, giving kayakers a serious advantage. I’ve spent hours paddling down the river, exploring hidden coves, and casting into spots that most people miss from the shore.
Whether you’re fishing for freshwater species upstream or chasing snook and redfish downstream, having a kayak opens up a whole new world. Plus, there’s something peaceful about paddling along the river in the early morning, surrounded by nature with no one else around.
Personal Tip: If you’re planning on kayak fishing, try launching from Sims Park in New Port Richey. It’s a great starting point, and from there, you can easily paddle downstream toward the Gulf or explore the brackish water areas where the snook and redfish hang out.
Pros and Cons of Fishing the Cotee River
Pros:
- Variety of Fish Species: The Cotee River offers a mix of freshwater and saltwater fishing, making it a versatile spot for anglers of all skill levels.
- Scenic Beauty: The river is surrounded by beautiful Florida scenery, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way.
- Kayak-Friendly: The river’s narrow width and calm waters make it ideal for kayak fishing.
- Quiet and Less Crowded: Compared to other popular fishing spots, the Cotee River tends to be quieter, offering a more peaceful experience.
Cons:
- Tide-Dependent: In the lower, brackish sections, fishing can be heavily influenced by the tides, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
- Navigating Can Be Tricky: While great for kayaks, the river can be a bit tricky to navigate for larger boats, especially in the upper sections where it narrows.
Final Thoughts: Why Cotee River is a Must-Fish Spot
The Cotee River is a hidden gem that offers anglers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re after largemouth bass in the freshwater sections or chasing snook and redfish closer to the Gulf, there’s always something biting. What I love most about this river is how peaceful it feels. Even on days when the fish aren’t as cooperative, just being out on the water, surrounded by nature, makes the trip worth it.
For any angler in Pasco County or beyond, the Cotee River should be on your fishing bucket list. Its diverse ecosystems, scenic beauty, and the thrill of fishing both freshwater and saltwater species make it one of the most rewarding places to fish in Florida.
So grab your gear, launch your kayak, and get ready for an unforgettable fishing experience on the Cotee River.