Episodes

  • Fishing the Florida Keys: A Promising November Outlook

    Fishing the Florida Keys: A Promising November Outlook
    Nov 10 2024
    As of November 10, 2024, the fishing scene in the Florida Keys is looking promising, especially with the cooler weather setting in. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather is mild, with air temperatures hovering around 75 degrees, making it ideal for fishing. Expect partly cloudy skies with a gentle breeze. Tides are crucial; today, the high tide is at 10:34 AM and the low tide at 4:17 PM. These tidal changes will stir up the waters, making it easier to locate active fish.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 5:30 PM, giving you ample daylight to explore the various fishing spots.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of action across different areas of the Keys. In Marathon, anglers were catching small Tarpon on artificial baits, and the Snook bite was particularly strong[3].

    In Key West, the fall turnover has brought huge schools of baitfish into the flats, attracting gamefish like Snapper, Grouper, Tarpon, and Redfish. The winds have turned the deep water over, stirring up the flats and making it a great time for multispecies action[4].

    ### Types of Fish Caught
    Anglers reported catching Tarpon, Snook, Snapper, and Grouper. In Islamorada, the cooler weather has made the fishing scene even more promising, with multiple catches of Tarpon and Snook reported[2].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Tarpon and Snook, artificial baits such as jigs and spoons are working well. Live bait like shrimp and mullet are also effective, especially for Snapper and Grouper. In the flats, fly fishing with patterns that mimic the abundant baitfish can be very productive[3][4].

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Marathon**: The backcountry and flats around Marathon are hot spots for Tarpon and Snook. Look for areas with moving water and abundant baitfish.
    - **Key West**: The reefs and wrecks off Key West are great for deep-sea fishing, targeting Grouper and Snapper. The flats around Key West are also alive with Snook and Tarpon.
    - **Islamorada**: Known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," Islamorada offers excellent inshore and offshore fishing. The channels and flats here are perfect for catching Tarpon and Snook.

    Overall, the Florida Keys are offering some fantastic fishing opportunities this November. With the right bait, lures, and knowledge of the tides and weather, you’re set for a memorable fishing trip.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys - Weather, Tides, and Hot Spots for Inshore and Offshore Angling

    Fishing the Florida Keys - Weather, Tides, and Hot Spots for Inshore and Offshore Angling
    Nov 9 2024
    If you're heading out to fish in the Florida Keys today, you're in for a treat. Here’s what you need to know:

    **Weather and Tides:**
    The weather is looking pleasant with moderate temperatures and light winds, making it a comfortable day for both inshore and offshore fishing. Sunrise was at around 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at about 5:30 PM. Tides are relatively calm, with a high tide at 10:34 AM and a low tide at 4:17 PM, which is ideal for inshore fishing as the moving water will attract more fish.

    **Fish Activity:**
    Yesterday saw a lot of action in the Keys. For inshore fishing, the yellowtail snapper bite on the reef was excellent, particularly at depths of around 90 feet where you can catch larger fish, though the quantity is better at 60 feet. Live bait like pinfish and ballyhoo worked well. Tarpon fishing is also picking up, with juvenile tarpon showing up in residential canals and following pilchards.

    **Offshore Fishing:**
    Offshore, anglers found blackfin tuna, amberjack, and dolphin (mahi-mahi) around 125 feet of water. Closer to shore, triggerfish, porgies, and snapper were abundant, with live shrimp being the preferred bait. Mahi-mahi were spotted 18 miles out, but the catch was better in areas with organized weed lines and bird activity.

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For inshore fishing, use live bait such as shrimp, pinfish, or ballyhoo. A popping cork with a 3-inch soft plastic lure like the Savage Gear Manic Shrimp is effective for trout, redfish, snook, and other species. Offshore, live shrimp and baitfish mimics are your best bet.

    **Hot Spots:**
    - **Rex Ledges:** Great for catching mutton snapper and other species inside 150 feet.
    - **Marathon Humps:** Excellent for deep-dropping and catching snowy grouper, tile fish, and golden tile.
    - **Residential Canals:** Ideal for tarpon fishing, especially where pilchards are present.

    Remember to check the latest FWC regulations and practice catch-and-release fishing whenever possible. Enjoy your day on the water
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    2 mins
  • Catching Fall Gamefish in the Florida Keys Amid Changing Weather

    Catching Fall Gamefish in the Florida Keys Amid Changing Weather
    Nov 8 2024
    As of November 8, 2024, the Florida Keys are offering some fantastic fishing opportunities despite the transitional fall weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather in the Keys is mild, with air temperatures hovering around 75 degrees. However, we're expecting a cold front to move in over the next few days, which will bring stronger winds and rougher waters. For today, the sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and the sunset will be at 5:32 PM. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at 9:15 AM and a low tide at 3:15 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a mix of sunny and windy conditions, but the fish were still active. The fall turnover is stirring up the flats and deep waters, bringing huge schools of baitfish and attracting a variety of gamefish. Anglers reported catching a good number of snapper, grouper, and tarpon.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Snapper and grouper were plentiful, particularly around the wrecks and reefs. Tarpon were also active, especially in the shallower waters as they feast on the stirred-up baitfish. Some anglers even reported catching a few kingfish and sailfish in the offshore areas.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For the flats, light tackle with jigs and soft plastics worked well for snapper and grouper. Live bait such as shrimp and mullet were highly effective for tarpon and other gamefish. In the offshore areas, spoons and plugs were successful for kingfish and sailfish.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the area around the Hawks Cay Marina, where the combination of shallow flats and deeper reefs creates a perfect environment for a variety of species. Another spot is the waters around Key West, particularly the areas where the cold fronts are stirring up the baitfish.

    Overall, it's a great time to be fishing in the Florida Keys, with plenty of action and a variety of species to target. Just be prepared for the changing weather conditions and plan your trip accordingly.
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    2 mins
  • Autumn Fishing Frenzy in the Florida Keys: Navigating the Fluctuating Weather and Abundant Catches

    Autumn Fishing Frenzy in the Florida Keys: Navigating the Fluctuating Weather and Abundant Catches
    Nov 7 2024
    As of November 7, 2024, the Florida Keys are offering some fantastic fishing opportunities, despite the occasional chilly breeze and windy days that come with the fall season.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather is mild, with air temperatures hovering around 75 degrees, making it a pleasant time to be out on the water. However, cold fronts are common this time of year, bringing strong winds and rough waters. Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of 78 degrees and a low of 70 degrees. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at around 10:30 AM and a low tide at 4:30 PM.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset is at 5:30 PM, providing ample daylight for a full day of fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a mix of species being caught across the Keys. Snapper and grouper were plentiful on the bottom, particularly around the reefs. There were also reports of wahoo, kingfish, barracudas, bonita, mahi-mahi, and blackfin tuna in the deeper waters.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For the flats and backcountry, live pilchards are a top choice, as they attract a variety of gamefish. In the reef areas, jigs and live bait such as shrimp or pinfish are effective for snapper and grouper. For those targeting wahoo and kingfish, trolling with spoons or plugs can be very productive.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the area around the Key West reefs, where the cooler water temperatures have brought in large schools of baitfish, attracting predators like snapper, grouper, and even some tarpon. Another great spot is the backcountry waters of the Flats, where the changing tides and winds stir up the waters, making it ideal for catching species like redfish, trout, and even some larger gamefish.

    Overall, it's a great time to be fishing in the Florida Keys, with a variety of species active and the weather still relatively warm and pleasant. Just be prepared for the occasional cold front and plan your trip accordingly.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys in November: Cooler Weather, Bountiful Catches

    Fishing the Florida Keys in November: Cooler Weather, Bountiful Catches
    Nov 3 2024
    As of November 3, 2024, the fishing scene in the Florida Keys is looking promising, especially with the cooler weather setting in. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather is pleasant, with temperatures finally dipping into the 60s, a welcome change from the recent heat. Expect partly cloudy skies with gentle breezes. Tides are crucial; today, the high tide is at around 10:30 AM and the low tide at 4:30 PM. Incoming tides often bring baitfish and predatory fish closer to shore, so plan your fishing trip accordingly.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 5:33 PM, giving you ample daylight to explore the waters.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been robust, particularly in the backcountry. Snook and redfish have been biting well, especially in calmer conditions. Captains have reported good catches of these species in the backcountry areas of Islamorada. Spanish mackerel have also been active, schooling near bait balls in the gulf, making for exciting casting opportunities.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good number of snook, redfish, and Spanish mackerel caught. Captains like Jim Willcox and Mike Bassett reported productive days with multiple clients catching decent-sized fish. Tarpon are still present around local bridges and channels, although their activity may slow down as the water cools further.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For snook and redfish, live shrimp or cut bait work well. In the backcountry, using jigs or artificial lures like the Savage Gear Manic Shrimp under a popping cork can be effective. For Spanish mackerel, troll with spoons or cast small shiny lures. Offshore, gag grouper and kingfish can be targeted with live bait or heavy jigs.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Backcountry of Islamorada**: This area has been hot for snook and redfish, especially in protected areas when it’s windy.
    - **Gulf near Islamorada**: Look for bait balls to find large Spanish mackerel.
    - **Local Bridges and Channels**: These are good spots for tarpon and other species like snook and redfish.

    Overall, November is a great time to fish in the Florida Keys, with cooler weather and active fish. Make sure to check the latest fishing regulations and practice catch and release to help conserve fish populations. Enjoy your day on the water
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys: Tides, Weather, and Promising Catches

    Fishing the Florida Keys: Tides, Weather, and Promising Catches
    Nov 2 2024
    As of November 2, 2024, the fishing scene in the Florida Keys is looking promising, despite some variability in recent days. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Tidal Report
    The tides are relatively moderate today, with a high tide at around 9:30 AM and a low tide at about 3:30 PM. These conditions are ideal for targeting species that are active during the changing tides.

    ### Weather
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a gentle breeze out of the southeast at around 10 mph. Water temperatures are in the mid-70s to low 80s, which is perfect for a variety of fish species.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:53 AM, and sunset will be at 5:43 PM, giving you ample daylight to explore the waters.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a good amount of activity across different fishing grounds. Offshore, anglers reported catching several mahi-mahi and a few sailfish. On the reef, there were consistent catches of snapper, grouper, and some larger amberjack. In the backcountry, tarpon, snook, and redfish were active, particularly around the mangrove areas and shallow flats.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    - Offshore: Mahi-mahi and sailfish were the highlights, with some boats reporting up to 5 mahi-mahi per trip.
    - Reef: Snapper and grouper were plentiful, with some larger amberjack mixed in.
    - Backcountry: Tarpon, snook, and redfish were abundant, especially during the early morning and late afternoon.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For offshore fishing, using live bait such as ballyhoo or pilchards has been effective for mahi-mahi and sailfish. On the reef, jigs and live shrimp are working well for snapper and grouper. In the backcountry, topwater plugs and soft plastic lures like DOA shrimp are attracting tarpon, snook, and redfish.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Islamorada**: Known for its excellent reef fishing, Islamorada is a hot spot for snapper and grouper.
    - **Marathon**: The backcountry around Marathon is teeming with tarpon, snook, and redfish, especially around the mangrove islands and shallow flats.

    Overall, the Florida Keys are offering a diverse and exciting fishing experience right now. Make sure to check the local fishing regulations and respect the marine environment to ensure sustainable fishing practices. Happy fishing
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    3 mins
  • Fishing in the Florida Keys: Navigating the Fall Transition for Stellar Catches

    Fishing in the Florida Keys: Navigating the Fall Transition for Stellar Catches
    Nov 1 2024
    As of November 1st, the Florida Keys are offering some fantastic fishing conditions, making it an ideal time to get out on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather is mild, with air temperatures hovering around 75 degrees, and the town is peaceful, enjoying the between-season lull. Expect some windy days, but overall, the conditions are favorable. Tides are moderate, with a high tide around 9:30 AM and a low tide at 3:30 PM, which is perfect for exploring both the shallow flats and the deeper reefs.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at 5:45 PM, giving you ample daylight to fish both the morning and late afternoon.

    ### Fish Activity
    The fall transition has activated the fishing in the Key West backcountry. The cooling temperatures and occasional cold fronts have stirred up the waters, bringing huge schools of baitfish into the shallows and over the reefs. This has attracted a variety of gamefish, including tarpon, snook, and grouper.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good catch of snapper, particularly around the reefs and wrecks. Grouper fishing was also strong, with several charters reporting multiple catches. Tarpon were active in the flats and backcountry, and there were some notable catches of cobia and jumbo jack crevalles along the beaches.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For this time of year, live pilchards are a must-have in your live well. They are irresistible to the schools of baitfish and the gamefish that pursue them. For those preferring lures, soft plastic jigs and spoons are working well for snook and tarpon. Deep-sea fishing is also productive, with jigs and trolling lures attracting marlin and sailfish, although their seasons are winding down.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the area around the Key West reefs, where the schools of baitfish are congregating. The backcountry waters, particularly around the mangroves and shallow flats, are also teeming with life. Another spot worth checking out is the Boca Grande Pass, known for its tarpon and kingfish action.

    Overall, the Florida Keys are offering some excellent fishing opportunities this time of year. With the right bait and lures, and an understanding of the tides and weather, you're set for a memorable fishing trip.
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    3 mins
  • "Florida Keys Fishing Transitions to Winter Patterns - Offshore Kingfish, Inshore Redfish, and More"

    "Florida Keys Fishing Transitions to Winter Patterns - Offshore Kingfish, Inshore Redfish, and More"
    Oct 31 2024
    As we wrap up October in the Florida Keys, the fishing scene is transitioning into its winter patterns, and it's an exciting time to be on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    Today, October 31st, we're expecting partly cloudy skies with a high of around 78 degrees and a low of 70 degrees. The first cold front of the season has started to influence our weather, bringing northeasterly winds of 25-30 mph. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at around 9:00 AM and a low tide at 3:00 PM. Sunrise is at 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at 6:30 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    The recent cold front has stirred up the waters, but this has also made the fish very hungry. Offshore, kingfish and mahi-mahi have been active, especially past the color change. Bonito are also plentiful between the reef and deeper waters. On the reef, cero mackerels, snappers, groupers, kingfish, and jacks are feeding aggressively with the baitfish stacking up.

    In the backcountry, the waters have cleared up quickly after the last storm, and fishing is getting better by the day. Baby tarpon are still present in their usual spots, and the flats, though a bit cloudy, are hosting bonefish and permit. Redfish and snook fishing has been stellar, with larger snook and black drum starting to appear earlier than usual due to the fall bait migration.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For offshore fishing, using ballyhoo and threadfin herring as bait has been very effective. On the reef, chumming profusely has helped in attracting a strong yellowtail bite. In the backcountry, artificial lures such as jigs and spoons are working well for catching a variety of species, including trout as the mullet muds start.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the patch reefs, where you can find grouper, snapper, and other tasty filets despite the northerly winds. The outer reef is also exciting with larger sea conditions exciting the bite. For inshore fishing, the protected areas around the islands, creeks, canals, and shorelines of Flamingo and the mainland are producing good catches of smaller snook, redfish, and juvenile tarpon.

    Overall, October fishing in the Florida Keys is a treat, with light crowds and pleasant weather making it an ideal time to get out on the water. Just be prepared for the winds and changing conditions as the winter season sets in.
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    3 mins