Key West Fishing Report

This time of year it is very weather dependent when it come to flats fishing. With cold fronts the temperatures on the flats will fluctuate rapidly over night which is something to keep in mind when targeting flats species.

TARPON… It is the time of year yet again that we all look forward to. A few small groups of fish starting showing up already in the lower keys. In the upcoming month these amazing fish will start moving their way down in the keys. In return giving anglers an amazing opportunity to try and land the silver king.

Permit. As we get closer to April a good amount of fish will start pushing off shore to start spawning. We will still see them on the flats but will not be as predominate. many of the fish we have been seeing are of good size and are looking for a quick bite. Keep an eye out for a tail tip flashing out of the water and water pushes. 

Keep in mind the weather conditions, as this cloud cover will make it difficult to see into the water. Instead make sure to double check any suspicious surface disturbance. A number of guides have reported still seeing some nice Bonefish around, best being sought after on a low tide but being caught throughout the day. They can be found feeding in shallow water eating crabs and shrimp. 

The Bonefish seem running in groups, mostly smaller schools (4-10 fish) but have also heard reports of larger packs (10-15 fish). If targeting these silver bullets, be ready to make a quick shot on nervous water pushing across a flat and patches of “dusty” or lightly stirred up water as this may be a school of feeding bones. Smaller crab flies and shrimp flies work very well. With water temperatures cooling, we have started to see many more large Barracuda pushing onto the flats. 

Check sand holes for these toothy critters, most likely facing into the current and holding their position. Often times there are more than one hanging around one another so don’t be surprised if when fishing to a particular fish, that a different one comes from no-where and eats. Remember if seeking these beast, kind in mind their ability to cut through fluorocarbon leader and consider using a small piece of bite wire or cable. Be prepared for a spectacular fight, with long runs and jumps!