The Summer heatwave continues to wreak havoc on the flats as the water temp has been reaching 90+ degrees. Getting out early when the water is cooler is the best time to hit the flats. Afternoon trips just before dark when the water has cooled some can also be productive. 

Bone fish have been everywhere with some captains reporting schools numbering in the dozens to the west of Key West. Light colored shrimp patterns in tan, pink, olive and pearl should be in your fly box when hunting Bones. Matching the flies color to the bottom structures color is very important. 

Young Tarpon averaging 30-60lbs can still be found working deeper ledges off the edge of flats where cooler water moves through. Permit fishing has still been a little slow since their spawning offshore. As with tarpon, look to find permit this time of year pushing over flats with the changing of the tide and cooler water. 

A good fly presentation is more important than crab pattern choice for these brutes. Working the edges of mangroves with baitfish patterns can also get a fisherman hooked up with large snapper and jacks as well.