Episodes

  • Challenging Islamorada Fishing: Targeting Snook, Redfish, and Braving the Cold for Tarpon Enthusiasts

    Challenging Islamorada Fishing: Targeting Snook, Redfish, and Braving the Cold for Tarpon Enthusiasts
    Jan 9 2025
    Today, January 9th, 2025, the fishing scene in Islamorada, Florida is quite challenging, especially for those targeting tarpon. January is typically the worst month for tarpon fishing here due to the cold weather, which often forces these fish to seek warmer waters elsewhere.

    ### Tidal Report
    As of today, the tidal conditions are as follows: Low tide was at 1:50 AM with a height of -0.03 m (-0.1 ft), followed by a high tide at 7:26 AM with a height of 0.09 m (0.3 ft). The next low tide is at 12:42 PM with a height of 0.05 m (0.17 ft), and the final high tide of the day will be at 6:13 PM with a height of 0.2 m (0.67 ft)[2].

    ### Weather and Daylight
    The sunrise today is at 7:09 AM, and the sunset will be at 5:50 PM. The weather is expected to be cool, which is not ideal for tarpon but can be favorable for other species like snook and redfish.

    ### Fish Activity
    Given the cold weather, tarpon activity is minimal. However, you can still find some action with snook, redfish, and possibly some snapper and grouper. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a few snook and redfish, particularly around the Channel #2 Bridge and the Long Key Bridge, which are known hot spots for these species[3].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For snook and redfish, using live bait such as shrimp or mullet can be very effective. Jigs and soft plastic lures also work well, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when these fish tend to be more active.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Channel #2 Bridge**: This bridge is a favorite among locals for catching snook, redfish, and occasionally some tarpon if the weather warms up.
    - **Long Key Bridge**: This bridge is less crowded and offers good opportunities for snook, small grouper, and snapper.
    - **Florida Bay**: This area is great for land-based fishing, especially during twilight times when the fish are more active[3][4].

    While the conditions are not ideal for tarpon, there is still plenty of fishing action to be had in Islamorada. Just be prepared for the cooler weather and adjust your tactics accordingly.
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    3 mins
  • "Islamorada's Wintertime Fishing Challenges: Targeting Alternative Species Amid Cold Weather"

    "Islamorada's Wintertime Fishing Challenges: Targeting Alternative Species Amid Cold Weather"
    Jan 5 2025
    Today, January 5th, 2025, the fishing scene in Islamorada is quite challenging, especially if you're targeting tarpon. January is generally the worst month for tarpon fishing here due to the cold weather, which often forces tarpon to seek warmer waters elsewhere.

    ### Tidal Report
    As of today, the tide times for Islamorada, Upper Matecumbe Key Bay are as follows: High tide at 1:47 AM with a height of 0.59 ft, low tide at 9:30 AM with a height of 0.02 ft, high tide at 2:39 PM with a height of 0.5 ft, and low tide at 9:51 PM with a height of 0.06 ft[2].

    ### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
    The weather is typically cool this time of year, which is not ideal for tarpon. Sunrise is at 7:08 AM, and sunset is at 5:47 PM. While the Solunar Theory suggests today could be a good day for fishing, you need to consider the current weather forecast, which is likely to be cool and possibly windy[4].

    ### Fish Activity
    Despite the challenging conditions, there are still some fish to be caught. Yesterday, captains reported catching snook, redfish, and drum in the Everglades, along with some Spanish mackerel in the Gulf. There were also reports of small juvenile tarpon in the backcountry, particularly around the nearby bridges, although these are less common due to the cold weather[5].

    ### Types of Fish and Best Lures/Bait
    For those not targeting tarpon, there are other species to focus on. Snook, redfish, and drum are active in the backcountry. For snook and redfish, using live bait such as shrimp or mullet can be effective. For Spanish mackerel, spoons and jigs work well. If you're lucky enough to find tarpon, they might take a well-placed fly or a live bait like a mullet or pinfish, but this is less likely given the cold conditions[1][5].

    ### Hot Spots
    Some hot spots to consider include the Channel #2 Bridge and the Long Key Bridge, which are known for snapper, grouper, snook, and the occasional tarpon. Florida Bay is also a good area, especially during twilight times when the water is clear and calm[3][4].

    In summary, while tarpon fishing is not ideal this time of year, there are still plenty of other fish to target in Islamorada. Be prepared for cooler weather, and adjust your tactics and expectations accordingly.
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    3 mins
  • Islamorada Fishing Forecast: Favorable Tides and Promising Conditions for Snook, Redfish, and Tarpon Action

    Islamorada Fishing Forecast: Favorable Tides and Promising Conditions for Snook, Redfish, and Tarpon Action
    Jan 4 2025
    Today, January 4, 2025, the fishing scene in Islamorada is looking promising, especially with the current tidal and weather conditions.

    First off, let's look at the tides. As of today, we had a high tide at 00:49 AM with a height of 0.67 ft, followed by a low tide at 8:50 AM with a height of -0.04 ft. The next high tide is expected at 1:59 PM with a height of 0.46 ft, and the final low tide of the day will be at 8:39 PM with a height of 0.09 ft[2].

    The weather is mild, with sunrise at 7:08 AM and sunset at 5:47 PM. This time of year, the warmer weather patterns are still holding up, which is great for fishing.

    Yesterday's fishing was excellent, with a lot of action in the backcountry and nearshore areas. There were plenty of snook, redfish, and black drum caught in the Everglades. Spanish mackerel were also biting well in the Gulf, along with some tripletail and the occasional cobia on various wrecks. Tarpon were active around the bridges and in the backcountry, with Capt. Charles Hertel and Capt. Mike Still reporting local tarpon action near the bridges[1].

    For today, you can expect similar activity. The best lures to use would be live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or pinfish for species like snook, redfish, and tarpon. For Spanish mackerel and tripletail, using jigs or spoons can be very effective.

    If you're looking for hot spots, Channel #2 Bridge just west of Islamorada is always a good bet. This bridge is home to mangrove and yellowtail snapper, gag grouper, barracuda, snook, and tarpon. Another spot is the Long Key Bridge, which is less crowded but still offers plenty of snapper, small grouper, snook, and tarpon[3].

    Overall, it's a great day to get out on the water in Islamorada, with plenty of fish to target and favorable conditions. Make sure to check the tide times and adjust your fishing strategy accordingly. Good luck out there
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    2 mins
  • Fishing Forecast: Islamorada Promises Stellar Inshore and Backcountry Action on January 3rd, 2025

    Fishing Forecast: Islamorada Promises Stellar Inshore and Backcountry Action on January 3rd, 2025
    Jan 3 2025
    Today, January 3rd, 2025, the fishing conditions in Islamorada are looking promising. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

    ### Tidal Report
    We're currently in the midst of a low tide, with the first low tide of the day occurring at 8:11 AM and the next high tide at 1:21 PM. The tidal heights are relatively mild, with the high tide at 0.13 meters (0.42 feet) and the low tide at -0.03 meters (-0.09 feet)[2].

    ### Weather
    The weather is ideal for fishing, with daytime temperatures in the low 70s and clear blue skies. Sunrise was at 7:08 AM, and sunset will be at 5:46 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    The winter season has brought consistent action in the waters of Islamorada. Anglers are finding good numbers of snook, redfish, and juvenile tarpon in Florida Bay and throughout Everglades National Park. These protected waters serve as essential winter feeding grounds, concentrating gamefish in predictable areas[1].

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a strong showing of tarpon, particularly in the backcountry and oceanside areas of The Keys. Snook were plentiful in the backcountry of Islamorada and Key Largo, and there were also reports of redfish. Bonefish are actively feeding on the flats, making for exciting sight fishing opportunities[1].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For targeting tarpon, snook, and redfish, live bait such as shrimp, mullet, and pinfish are highly effective. For bonefish, small jigs and fly fishing with patterns that mimic their natural prey can be very successful. Nearshore reefs are yielding snapper, grouper, and amberjack, for which jigs and live bait like pilchards or sardines work well[3].

    ### Hot Spots
    Two hot spots to consider are the Channel #2 Bridge and the Long Key Bridge. Channel #2 Bridge is home to mangrove and yellowtail snapper, gag grouper, barracuda, snook, and tarpon. It gets busy, so fishing early or at night is recommended. Long Key Bridge, being less crowded, offers a similar array of species including snapper, small grouper, snook, and tarpon[3].

    Overall, today is shaping up to be a great day for fishing in Islamorada, with favorable tides, excellent weather, and a variety of active fish species to target.
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    3 mins
  • Islamorada's Winter Fishing Bounty: Mackerel, Snappers, and More in the Keys

    Islamorada's Winter Fishing Bounty: Mackerel, Snappers, and More in the Keys
    Jan 2 2025
    Today, January 2, 2025, the fishing scene in Islamorada is looking promising, despite the cooler winter weather. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    As of today, the tidal conditions are as follows: Low tide is at 7:32 AM with a height of -0.13 ft, high tide at 12:44 PM with a height of 0.39 ft, low tide again at 6:39 PM with a height of 0.12 ft, and high tide at 11:58 PM with a height of 0.72 ft[2].
    The weather is mild, with sunrise at 7:07 AM and sunset at 5:45 PM. The moon is in its waning crescent phase, rising at 9:28 AM and setting at 8:39 PM[2].

    ### Fish Activity
    Given the cooler January weather, tarpon fishing is not at its best, but other species are active. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of king mackerel, yellowtail snappers, and some dolphin. Deep wreck fishing yielded amberjacks, and the reefs were home to nice red groupers and snappers[1].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For king mackerel and amberjacks, using jigs or spoons can be effective. For snappers and groupers, live or frozen bait like shrimp, pinfish, or squid works well. If you're targeting dolphin, trolling with lures that mimic baitfish can be successful[3].

    ### Hot Spots
    Two of the best spots to fish in Islamorada include the Channel #2 Bridge and the Long Key Bridge. The Channel #2 Bridge is known for its mangrove and yellowtail snappers, gag grouper, barracuda, and snook. It gets busy, so early morning or night fishing is recommended. The Long Key Bridge, while less crowded, offers similar species and is easily accessible by bike or car[3].

    Overall, it's a good day to hit the reefs and deep wrecks for a variety of species. Keep an eye on the weather, and adjust your fishing times according to the tides for the best results.
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    2 mins
  • Islamorada Fishing Season Wrap-Up: Tides, Weather, and Hotspots for Snook, Bonefish, and Tarpon

    Islamorada Fishing Season Wrap-Up: Tides, Weather, and Hotspots for Snook, Bonefish, and Tarpon
    Dec 29 2024
    As we wrap up the 2024 fishing season in Islamorada, Florida, today, December 29th, promises to be an exciting day on the water. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Tides and Weather
    Today's tides in Islamorada are as follows: Low tide at 4:59 AM with a height of -0.11 ft, high tide at 10:11 AM with 0.35 ft, low tide again at 3:45 PM with 0.18 ft, and the final high tide at 9:03 PM with 0.68 ft. Sunrise is at 7:06 AM, and sunset will be at 5:43 PM[2].

    The weather has been relatively warm, which is ideal for targeting some of the area's prized species.

    ### Fish Activity
    The past few days have seen a good mix of fish activity. Despite some strong winds, anglers have been catching snook, redfish, drum, sheepshead, and more in the creeks using shrimp as bait. Offshore, there have been reports of large redfish and black drum[5].

    For those targeting the flats, bonefish have been active, especially on sunny days with a bit of wind. Tarpon are also around, particularly in warmer weather, and can be found from downtown Islamorada to the Gulf. Permit have been spotted as well, making for a potential grand slam day[1].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For inshore fishing, shrimp has been working well for snook, redfish, and drum. For bonefish, small jigs or fly fishing with patterns that mimic shrimp or crabs are effective. When targeting tarpon, large streamers or baitfish patterns on fly gear, or live bait like mullet or pinfish, can be very successful[1][3].

    ### Hot Spots
    Channel #2 Bridge is a hotspot for mangrove and yellowtail snapper, gag grouper, barracuda, snook, and tarpon. It gets busy, so consider fishing early or at night. Long Key Bridge is another good spot, less crowded than Channel #2, and offers plenty of snapper, small grouper, snook, and tarpon. For those looking to fish the flats, the areas around Florida Bay are excellent for bonefish, permit, and tarpon[3].

    With the season winding down, now is a great time to get out and catch some of these incredible species before the year ends. Book a trip and enjoy the fishing in Islamorada
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    3 mins
  • Islamorada Fishing Forecast: Tarpon, Bonefish, Snook Biting Amid Ideal Weather Conditions

    Islamorada Fishing Forecast: Tarpon, Bonefish, Snook Biting Amid Ideal Weather Conditions
    Dec 28 2024
    As of December 28, 2024, the fishing scene in Islamorada is looking promising, despite the tail end of the 2024 season.

    ### Tidal Report
    Today, the tides in Islamorada are as follows: a low tide at 4:16 AM with -0.08 ft, a high tide at 9:35 AM with 0.35 ft, another low tide at 3:07 PM with 0.20 ft, and a high tide at 8:20 PM with 0.65 ft[2].

    ### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
    The weather has been improving after recent strong winds and rain. Expect sunny days with a bit of wind, ideal for spotting fish like bonefish on the flats. Sunrise today is at around 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:38 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    This time of year, you can still catch a variety of fish. Tarpon are active, especially with the warm weather, and can be found from downtown Islamorada to the gulf. Bonefish are around the flats in town, and with sunny days and a little wind, you can spot and cast to them effectively. Snook, permit, and redfish are also present in good numbers[5].

    ### Types of Fish Caught
    Yesterday saw a good catch of tarpon, bonefish, and snook. The reefs near the edge of the Florida Bay and the Gulf are also yielding snapper, grouper, and occasional mahi-mahi and tuna for those venturing offshore[1][3].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For inshore fishing, live baits such as shrimp and small fish work well for snook, tarpon, and bonefish. For bonefish, small jigs and fly fishing gear are highly effective. Offshore, live baits like ballyhoo and pilchards are excellent for sailfish and other billfish. Trolling lures like spoons and plugs can also attract mahi-mahi and tuna[1][5].

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Channel #2 Bridge**: This iconic bridge just west of Islamorada is home to mangrove and yellowtail snapper, gag grouper, barracuda, snook, and tarpon. It gets busy, so fish early or at night.
    - **Long Key Bridge**: Located a bit further west, this bridge is less crowded and offers plenty of snapper, small grouper, snook, and tarpon.
    - **The Edge of the Reef**: For offshore fishing, the edge of the reef 3-5 miles offshore is a hotspot for sailfish, especially during the winter months when they congregate near the reef to feed on bait schools[1][3].

    With the right conditions and gear, today promises to be a great day for fishing in Islamorada.
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    3 mins
  • Islamorada Fishing Outlook: Tarpon, Snook, and Redfish on the Bite Despite Changing Weather

    Islamorada Fishing Outlook: Tarpon, Snook, and Redfish on the Bite Despite Changing Weather
    Dec 27 2024
    Today, December 27, 2024, in Islamorada, Florida, the fishing conditions are looking promising despite the recent strong winds and rain. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Tidal Report
    We have a high tide at 8:52 AM with 0.35 ft, followed by a low tide at 2:29 PM with 0.21 ft, and another high tide at 7:36 PM with 0.62 ft. The tidal coefficient is relatively low, indicating smaller tidal ranges and currents[2].

    ### Weather
    The weather has been improving, with warmer days and lighter winds, although a cold front is expected soon. For now, it's a good time to get out on the water.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:52 AM, and sunset will be at 5:39 PM, giving us about 10 hours and 47 minutes of daylight.

    ### Fish Activity
    The fish are active, especially with the warmer water. Tarpon, although challenging, can still be found this time of year, particularly in areas like downtown Islamorada and into the gulf. Snook and redfish are abundant on the flats and mangroves. Bonefish are also present around the flats in town, and permit can be caught with some patience[1][3].

    ### Fish Caught
    Yesterday saw a mix of species caught, including snook, redfish, bonefish, and even some tarpon. The backcountry has been producing good numbers of redfish, and the beaches and flats further out have decent-sized snook.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For tarpon, use large streamers or baitfish patterns on fly gear, or live bait like mullet or shrimp on spin gear. For snook and redfish, jigs, soft plastics, and live shrimp are effective. Bonefish can be targeted with small shrimp or crab patterns on fly gear.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Channel #2 Bridge**: This iconic bridge is home to mangrove and yellowtail snapper, gag grouper, barracuda, snook, and tarpon. It gets busy, so fish early or at night.
    - **Long Key Bridge**: A bit further west, this bridge is less crowded and offers plenty of snapper, small grouper, snook, and tarpon.
    - **Florida Bay**: The backcountry here is great for redfish, snook, and tarpon, especially on the flats.

    With the right gear and a bit of patience, today could be a great day on the water in Islamorada. Just keep an eye on that upcoming cold front, as it might change the fishing dynamics soon.
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    3 mins