Winter Fishing
When you consider winter time fishing, you have to pay particular attention to the weather. Constantly changing weather patterns and barometric pressure make fishing for any one species anything but a guarantee. The cooling water temperature pushes waves of bait fish through the islands and bays, along with the numerous species that follow them. In particular Cobia, Sharks, Barracuda, Jacks, Redfish, Snook and small native tarpon are primary Winter time species. Although the “elite gamefish” such as bonefish and large tarpon are not as common this time of year, unusually warm calm days in between cold front can be some of the very best fishing all year. The Key to winter time fishing is flexibility and an open mind.
Spring Fishing
Spring is a very exciting time to fish in the FL Keys. As the “ice melts” and the shallow water begins to warm, many exciting gamefish move in. In late winter and early spring cobia begin moving through the flats and channels beginning their migration back north, devouring every bait that crosses their path on the way. Beginning in late February through March and into early April, prime permit season kicks in. The always exciting tarpon begin their annual migration moving into the channels and bridges, eventually making their way down the ocean side flats. The early season tarpon bite, although often inconsistent due to late spring cold fronts, is usually best before the Summer addiction kicks into full swing. Last but definitely not least, the ever present bonefish come out of the deep and make their presence known on the flats, making a great “fallback” plan if other venues don’t pan out.
Summer Fishing
If your putting your money on the best weather and the most consistent fishing in the Florida Keys, Summer time is your time for the Keys. Big tarpon are in full swing. Bonefish begin moving up shallow in heavy numbers. Permit are spread throughout the flats and channels. The best bites are early in the morning, late in the afternoon and at night. Great time of year for half days or splitting a full day in half. Slick calm days are also great for making long runs west to the Marquesas or just north into Florida Bay. Even if bad weather is around, heavy winds and rainstorms often break up the “doldrums” of summer, causing the bite to pick up.
