Key West Current Fishing Report

February 22, 2005

Winter fishing has been fairly good in Key West, the wind has been a factor but the fish don't seem to care. Inshore fishing on the flats has been very productive. This time of year the flats have such a variety of fish on them. Tarpon, permit, cobia, barracuda, sharks, jacks and even some other species like pompano and mutton snapper. It can be non stop action at times on the flats in February and right through March for all these species. The weather has been pretty warm and this means tarpon! For those of you still wanting to fight the silver king on a fly, April, May and June are prime months for tarpon. Don't shun out the summer time here in the Keys if you can't get here until then. The best chance for a Grand Slam is in the summer. July & August are hot but fishing early and late in the day proves very productive on the flats.

Offshore fishing is steady with catches of mahi dolphin, some sailfish and kingfish. Both trolling boats and light tackle sport fishing charters are producing a good catch of fish. The reefs and wrecks are fishing pretty well for yellowtail snapper, grouper, african pompano, kingfish and cero mackerals. This is the time of year for Cobia too. Cobia can be found cruising on the flats and also around wrecks and deep channels. They are a great fish on light tackle and on fly if you can get them to eat.

Fly fishing enthusiasts would have a blast with barracuda this time of year. They will crash anything that resembles a needlefish or skinny bait fish. Chartreuse fibers with an estaz head have been working good. Don't forget the eyes! This is also the prime time to catch permit on fly. February and into April are great months on the flats for permit. They are hungry and are getting ready to head offshore to spawn.

If you are interested in Tarpon season, don't forget it's coming up soon and we still have room in the schedule.

If' you'd like a more up to date fishing report, please call or email the Key West Fishing Club.

Fishing Variety in the Keys

There is no doubt that Key West and the Florida Keys have the best selection of fishing in the country. Surrounded by the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, along with the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the Lower Keys have it all within reach as far as fishing goes. From big game sport fishing in 1000ft. of water to backcountry fishing for tailing bonefish in just inches of water, we've got it all.

Tarpon Season in Key West

Anglers of all ages and all abilities have at one time heard of the annual tarpon migration. There are few spots in the world where you can get the amount of opportunities to hook one of these giant silver king fish, Key West is one of the best spots. Fly fishing enthusiasts come from all over to cast to these fish on the flats, while other anglers fish for them on light tackle gear in Key West Harbor.

Sailfish in Key West

One of the best fish fights you may ever remember is a battle with an Atlantic Sailfish. Key West has plenty of them in the winter months and all year long they are caught and released here in the Keys. Sailfish jump madly in the air when hooked and are brilliant blue and purple in color when they are 'lit up'. Captains and guides here in Key West use live bait and also troll for these beautiful sailfish.

Grouper and Snapper Fishing

Key West is known for it's wonderful fresh seafood. Some of the most delectible tastes are the varieties of snapper and grouper found on the wrecks and reefs that surround the Keys. Charters go as far as they Dry Tortugas area to fish for large black grouper and mutton snapper. Many different species of bottom dwelling fish can be found here. Many restaurants in Key West will be happy to cook your catch of the day.

Family Fishing Trips

We have the ability to custom tailor your charter to fit the needs of your entire family. Go bend a few rods and fish with your kids, snorkel and see some beautiful tropical fish, and walk along a deserted sandy beach. You can do it all in one charter, just ask us how!

Key West Fishing Guides

All the guides that fish out of Key West are licensed and have the experience on the water to ensure your day is a fun and productive one. All the guides that are booked with the Key West Fishing Club own and operate their own vessels. Fishing is the main profession of these guides and they pride themselves on owning and operating a friendly and fun fishing business in Key West.