Episodes

  • Fishing the Florida Keys: Tides, Weather, and Tasty Targets

    Fishing the Florida Keys: Tides, Weather, and Tasty Targets
    Jan 5 2025
    If you're heading out to fish in the Florida Keys today, January 5, 2025, you're in for a treat. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Tides and Weather
    Today's tides in North Key Largo are as follows: high tide at 2:56 AM and 3:16 PM, with low tides at 8:57 AM and 9:32 PM. The tidal coefficient is high, indicating strong tidal currents, which can be beneficial for certain species[2][5].

    The weather is looking great, with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures, typical of the Keys this time of year. Sunrise is at 7:08 AM, and sunset will be at 5:45 PM[2].

    ### Fish Activity
    January is an excellent time for fishing in the Florida Keys. The shallow water flats fishing has been on fire since the Christmas holidays, with plenty of action from species like Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit. Offshore, you can expect to catch Tuna, Sailfish, Wahoo, and Mahi Mahi[1][4].

    Yesterday saw a lot of activity, particularly in the shallows around Key Largo and Key West. Anglers reported catching several Bonefish, a few Tarpon, and some Triggerfish nearshore. Offshore, there were reports of Tuna and Sailfish catches[1][4].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For flats fishing, fly gear or light tackle with small jigs and shrimp imitations work well for Bonefish and Permit. For Tarpon, use larger flies or lures that mimic baitfish. Offshore, troll with spoons or lures that mimic baitfish for species like Tuna and Sailfish. Live bait such as shrimp, pinfish, or mullet can also be very effective for a variety of species[1][4].

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best spots right now is the shallows around Biscayne Bay and the Florida Keys, particularly from Key Largo to Key West. For offshore fishing, head to the reefs and deeper waters around the Keys where you can find Tuna, Sailfish, and Mahi Mahi. The backcountry waters around Key West are also excellent for catching Redfish and other inshore species[1][4].

    Overall, it's a great time to be fishing in the Florida Keys, with plenty of fish to go around and excellent weather conditions. Enjoy your day on the water
    Show more Show less
    3 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys in January: Tides, Targets, and Hot Spots for an Epic Day on the Water

    Fishing the Florida Keys in January: Tides, Targets, and Hot Spots for an Epic Day on the Water
    Jan 4 2025
    If you're heading out to the Florida Keys today, January 4, 2025, you're in for a great day of fishing. Here's what you need to know:

    First off, let's talk about the tides and weather. The sun rose at 7:10 AM, and you can expect a sunset at 5:48 PM, giving you a good 10 hours and 37 minutes of daylight. The tidal coefficient is average, with moderate tidal movements, which is beneficial for fishing. The first high tide was at 8:55 AM, and the next one will be at 7:41 PM. These moderate tides should help stir up the fish.

    January is an excellent time to fish in the Florida Keys, with several species active. You can expect to find Bonefish, particularly in the shallows from Key Largo to Key West. Redfish are dominant inshore, while Triggerfish are joining the nearshore action. Offshore, you might catch Tuna, Sailfish, Wahoo, and more. Tarpon, though less common in January, can still be encountered.

    Yesterday's catch reports were excellent, with anglers catching a mix of Redfish, Bonefish, and some offshore species like Tuna and Sailfish.

    For Bonefish, use small jigs or fly fishing gear with shrimp or crab patterns. For Redfish, live or artificial shrimp and spoons work well. If you're after Tarpon, try using live mullet or pinfish. Offshore, lures like trolling spoons and jigs can attract Tuna and Sailfish, while live baits such as ballyhoo are also effective.

    Some hot spots to consider include the shallows around Biscayne Bay for Bonefish and Tarpon. For inshore fishing, the west coast of the Keys, particularly around Islamorada, is excellent for Redfish. Offshore, the reefs and waters around Key West are bustling with activity.

    Make sure to check the local weather forecast and tidal charts to optimize your fishing trip. With the right gear and knowledge of the tides, you should have a fantastic day on the water in the Florida Keys.
    Show more Show less
    2 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys in January: Sailfish, Wahoo, and Trout Abound

    Fishing the Florida Keys in January: Sailfish, Wahoo, and Trout Abound
    Jan 3 2025
    If you're heading out to fish in the Florida Keys today, January 3rd, 2025, here's what you can expect:

    First off, the weather is mild, with temperatures averaging around 70°F, making it a great day to be on the water. The tidal report for Key West shows a low tide at 6:04 AM and a high tide at 12:42 PM, with another low tide at 5:28 PM. Sunrise is at 7:12 AM and sunset at 5:51 PM.

    January is an excellent time for fishing in the Keys, especially for those targeting offshore species. Sailfish are abundant this time of year due to their migratory patterns, and you can also expect to find Wahoo, Cero Mackerel, and even some Mahi Mahi if the southeasterly winds pick up. Closer to shore, the Gulf-side wrecks are home to King Mackerel, large schools of Permit, Cobia, and various Shark species. In the flats and backcountry waters, Spotted Seatrout and Pompano are plentiful.

    Yesterday saw a lot of action with Sailfish and Wahoo being the stars of the show offshore. Inshore, anglers had success with Spotted Seatrout and Permit. For lures, use jigs and spoons to attract the attention of King Mackerel and Cobia. Live bait such as mullet and shrimp are excellent choices for targeting Tarpon, Permit, and Spotted Seatrout.

    Hot spots include the shallows around Biscayne Bay for Bonefish and Tarpon, and the Gulf-side wrecks off Key West for a variety of species. The flats around Key Largo are also worth exploring for Redfish and Spotted Seatrout.

    Overall, it's a great day to be fishing in the Florida Keys, with plenty of opportunities both inshore and offshore. Just remember to check the tide times and plan your day accordingly. Happy fishing
    Show more Show less
    2 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys in January 2025: Bonefish, Redfish, and More - A Podcast Primer

    Fishing the Florida Keys in January 2025: Bonefish, Redfish, and More - A Podcast Primer
    Jan 2 2025
    If you're heading out to the Florida Keys today, January 2, 2025, you're in for a treat. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Tides and Weather
    The sun rose at 7:10 AM, and you can expect a sunset at 5:48 PM, giving you a good 10 hours and 37 minutes of daylight. As for the tides, the first high tide was at 8:55 AM, with the next one at 7:41 PM. The tidal coefficient is average, indicating moderate tidal movements which can be beneficial for fishing[4].

    ### Fish Activity
    January is a great time to fish in the Florida Keys, with several species active. You can expect to find Bonefish, particularly in the shallows from Key Largo to Key West. Tarpon, though less common in January, can still be encountered. Redfish are dominant inshore, while Triggerfish are joining the nearshore action. Offshore, you might catch Tuna, Sailfish, Wahoo, and more[1].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Bonefish, use small jigs or fly fishing gear with shrimp or crab patterns. For Redfish, live or artificial shrimp and spoons work well. If you're after Tarpon, try using live mullet or pinfish. Offshore, lures like trolling spoons and jigs can attract Tuna and Sailfish, while live baits such as ballyhoo are also effective.

    ### Hot Spots
    Head to the shallows around Biscayne Bay for Bonefish and Tarpon. For inshore fishing, the west coast of the Keys, particularly around Islamorada, is excellent for Redfish. Offshore, the reefs and waters around Key West are bustling with activity.

    ### Yesterday’s Catch
    While specific catch numbers aren't available for yesterday, the general consensus is that the fishing has been excellent. Anglers have reported catching a mix of Redfish, Bonefish, and some offshore species like Tuna and Sailfish.

    Overall, the Florida Keys are offering some fantastic fishing opportunities right now. Make sure to check the local weather forecast and tidal charts to optimize your fishing trip. Enjoy your time on the water
    Show more Show less
    2 mins
  • FLKeys Fishing Report: Bonefish, Tarpon, and Tuna Bite Strong Despite Winter Chill

    FLKeys Fishing Report: Bonefish, Tarpon, and Tuna Bite Strong Despite Winter Chill
    Dec 29 2024
    Today, December 29th, in the Florida Keys, the fishing conditions are looking promising despite the winter season. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

    ### Tides and Weather
    The tides for Key West today are as follows: Low tide at 2:52 AM with -0.09 ft, high tide at 9:32 AM with 0.95 ft, low tide at 1:38 PM with 0.5 ft, and high tide at 8:24 PM with 1.85 ft. Sunrise is at 7:10 AM and sunset at 5:48 PM. The weather has been mild, allowing for regular offshore trips, though we've had some cooler fronts lately which can affect fish behavior.

    ### Fish Activity
    The bonefish and tarpon fishing have been excellent on the flats, with bonefish still active in the mid-70s water temperatures. Tarpon, although mostly smaller (10-30 lbs), are still present, especially in schools of juveniles. Barracudas have been aggressive and plentiful, making them a great target. Offshore, the tuna fishing has been outstanding, particularly for blackfin tunas, which have been biting well around the wrecks. Other offshore catches include bonitas, rainbow runners, kingfish, and amberjacks. Mutton snappers are also active around the wrecks.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For flats fishing, fly rods with small crab or shrimp patterns are effective for bonefish and permit. For tarpon, larger streamers or baitfish patterns work well. Offshore, live bait such as pilchards and ballyhoo have been the go-to choices, especially for tuna and wahoo. Jigs and spoons can also be effective for species like kingfish and amberjacks.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best spots for flats fishing is around Key West, where the shallow reefs and backcountry areas are teeming with bonefish, tarpon, and barracudas. For offshore fishing, the wrecks and reefs north of Key West have been producing good catches of tuna, mutton snappers, and other species.

    ### Yesterday's Catch
    Yesterday, despite some windy conditions, anglers managed to catch a variety of fish. In the backcountry, snook, redfish, drum, and sheepshead were caught using shrimp. Offshore, large redfish and black drum were landed, along with some good-sized blackfin tunas.

    Overall, the fishing in the Florida Keys remains excellent, with plenty of options both inshore and offshore. With the right weather, you can expect a productive day on the water.
    Show more Show less
    3 mins
  • Winter Wonderland: Fishing the Florida Keys in December 2024

    Winter Wonderland: Fishing the Florida Keys in December 2024
    Dec 28 2024
    Today, December 28, 2024, the fishing in the Florida Keys is looking promising, especially given the mild winter weather we've been experiencing. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

    ### Tides and Weather
    As of today, the tidal times for Key West are as follows: low tide at 2:12 AM, high tide at 8:50 AM, low tide at 1:00 PM, and high tide at 7:41 PM. The sunrise is at 7:10 AM and sunset at 5:48 PM. The weather has been relatively calm, with water temperatures in the mid-70s, which is ideal for a variety of species.

    ### Fish Activity
    The bonefish and tarpon fishing have been excellent, with bonefish still active on the flats. You can find some heavy bonefish around this time of year. Tarpon, although mostly smaller (10-30 lbs), are still present, especially in the backcountry. However, their activity can be inconsistent depending on the weather. Barracudas have been aggressive and plentiful, making them a great target for those looking for a fight.

    ### Offshore Fishing
    Offshore, the tuna fishing has been outstanding, particularly around the offshore wrecks. Blackfin tunas, along with bonitas, rainbow runners, kingfish, and amberjacks, have been biting well. The evening hours have seen the best action for these species. Wahoo fishing is expected to pick up around the full moon, which is approaching in January.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bonefish and tarpon, fly rods with appropriate flies or light tackle with small jigs and shrimp can be very effective. For barracudas, use lures that mimic baitfish or shrimp. Offshore, live bait such as pilchards and ballyhoo have been the go-to choices, especially for tuna and wahoo.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best spots right now is the shallow reefs and wrecks offshore. The mutton snapper bite has been excellent on these reefs, and you can also find large mutton snappers on the deeper wrecks. For those targeting bonefish and tarpon, the flats around Key West and the backcountry are your best bets.

    Overall, the fishing in the Florida Keys is in full swing this winter, offering a wide range of species and exciting fishing opportunities. Whether you're fishing on the flats or venturing offshore, there's plenty to keep you hooked.
    Show more Show less
    3 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys on December 27, 2024 - Tides, Weather, Hot Spots and Catches

    Fishing the Florida Keys on December 27, 2024 - Tides, Weather, Hot Spots and Catches
    Dec 27 2024
    Today, December 27, 2024, is shaping up to be a great day for fishing in the Florida Keys. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Tidal Report
    For Key West, the tidal times are as follows: the first low tide was at 1:28 AM, the first high tide is at 8:04 AM, the second low tide is at 12:23 PM, and the second high tide is at 6:58 PM. These tides will influence the movement and activity of the fish, especially in the backcountry and flats[2].

    ### Weather and Daylight
    Sunrise is at 7:09 AM, and sunset will be at 5:47 PM. The weather is expected to be mild, making it ideal for a day on the water.

    ### Fish Activity
    This time of year is excellent for catching a variety of species. In the backcountry, redfish, snook, and bonefish are active. Redfish have been spotted up on the flats, and patient anglers have a good chance of hooking them when they stop tailing. Snook fishing along the mangroves has been decent, with better catches on the beaches and flats further out[1].

    Offshore, sailfish, kingfish, and tuna are also active, with their best seasons running from December to March[3].

    ### Catches
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a mix of species including speckled trout, pompano, mangrove snapper, mutton snapper, lane snapper, and even goliath grouper. The new soft plastic lures have been incredibly productive in the backcountry[5].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For inshore species like redfish, snook, and bonefish, fly fishing and light tackle with small jigs, soft plastics, and live bait such as shrimp or small crabs are highly effective. For offshore fishing, using larger lures that mimic baitfish can attract sailfish, kingfish, and tuna.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best spots right now is the backcountry around Islamorada, where the flats are filled with redfish and snook. The mangrove-lined shores and beaches further out are also producing good catches. For a more challenging and rewarding experience, consider a canoe trip into the Everglades, where you can catch snook, redfish, and tarpon in their natural habitat[1].

    Overall, it's a great time to be fishing in the Florida Keys, with plenty of action and a variety of species to target. Enjoy your day on the water
    Show more Show less
    3 mins
  • Fishing in the Florida Keys: Post-Holiday Excitement and Abundant Catches

    Fishing in the Florida Keys: Post-Holiday Excitement and Abundant Catches
    Dec 26 2024
    Today, December 26th, in the Florida Keys, the fishing conditions are looking promising despite the post-holiday bustle. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

    ### Tides and Weather
    As of today, the tide times for Content Keys, Content Passage are as follows: Low tide at 4:29 AM with a height of 0.16 ft, high tide at 9:56 AM with a height of 2.12 ft, low tide at 3:33 PM with a height of 1.07 ft, and high tide at 9:01 PM with a height of 3.45 ft. Sunrise is at 7:08 AM and sunset at 5:45 PM. The winds have been relatively calm after the recent cold front, making it a good day to get out on the water.

    ### Fish Activity
    This time of year is excellent for catching several species. Sailfish, kingfish, and tuna are active, with their best seasons being from December to March[1].

    ### Yesterday's Catch
    From reports, yesterday's fishing was productive, especially in the backcountry and offshore areas. Anglers caught snook, redfish, drum, and sheepshead in the creeks using shrimp as bait. Offshore, there were catches of large redfish and black drum[3].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For inshore fishing, shrimp and live bait are working well for snook, redfish, and drum. For offshore fishing, lures like jigs and spoons are effective for kingfish and tuna. For sailfish, using live bait such as ballyhoo or pilchards can be very productive.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the backcountry creeks, where you can find snook, redfish, and drum hiding in the mangroves. Offshore, areas around the reefs and near the Gulf Stream are good for sailfish, kingfish, and tuna.

    Overall, it's a great day to be out on the water in the Florida Keys, with a variety of fish to target and favorable tidal conditions. Just be prepared for some crowds and enjoy the holiday fishing season.
    Show more Show less
    2 mins