Are you a fishing enthusiast? If so, the stunning beaches and abundant marine life of the Florida Keys might just be your paradise. Look no further for a comprehensive guide to seasonal fishing in this tropical haven. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, this article provides a month-by-month breakdown of the fish species you can expect to find, along with the most effective techniques to reel them in. From the iconic sailfish to the elusive tarpon, get ready to embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure in the Florida Keys.
Table of Contents
January
Fish Species in January
In January, the Florida Keys offer an abundance of fish species for you to target. One popular fish you can find during this time is the sailfish. Known for its vibrant colors and size, the sailfish is a thrilling catch and a favorite among many anglers in the area. Another species to look out for in January is the yellowtail snapper. These fish can be found near the coral reefs and are known for their delicious meat.
Best Fishing Techniques in January
When it comes to fishing in January, there are a few techniques that can greatly enhance your chances of success. One effective technique is trolling. By trolling with lures or live bait, you can cover a larger area and increase your chances of encountering sailfish. Another technique to try is bottom fishing for yellowtail snapper. Using small pieces of cut bait or shrimp as bait, drop your lines near the reefs and keep an eye on your line for any movement.
February
Fish Species in February
February brings a new set of fish species to target in the Florida Keys. One of the most sought-after species during this month is the blackfin tuna. Known for their impressive speed and strength, blackfin tuna can provide an exciting fight for anglers. Another species to keep an eye out for in February is the grouper. These large fish can be found near wrecks and reefs and are known to put up a good fight.
Best Fishing Techniques in February
To increase your chances of success in February, try trolling with small feathers or lures to target blackfin tuna. These fish are known to feed near the surface, so keep an eye out for any signs of baitfish or bird activity. When it comes to grouper fishing, using live bait such as pinfish or grunts near the wrecks and reefs can yield great results. Be prepared for a strong fight, as grouper are known for their power.
March
Fish Species in March
March is a great month for fishing in the Florida Keys, with various species available to target. One notable species that can be found in abundance during this month is the mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphin fish. Mahi-mahi are known for their vibrant colors and acrobatic jumps, making them a thrilling catch. Additionally, March is a prime time to target snook. These fish can be found near the mangroves and are known for their aggressive strikes.
Best Fishing Techniques in March
To increase your chances of catching mahi-mahi in March, try trolling with small lures or rigged ballyhoo. Look for floating debris or weed lines, as these are prime spots for mahi-mahi to gather. When targeting snook, using live bait such as pilchards or shrimp near the mangroves can prove to be successful. Cast your bait near any structures or overhanging branches, as snook like to seek shelter in these areas.
April
Fish Species in April
April offers a diverse range of fish species to target in the Florida Keys. One species that dominates the waters during this month is the tarpon. Known for their massive size and incredible strength, tarpon are a prized catch for many anglers. Another species worth targeting in April is the permit. These fish can be found near the flats and wrecks, and are known for their challenging fight.
Best Fishing Techniques in April
To increase your chances of landing a tarpon in April, consider using live bait such as mullet or crabs. Look for tarpon rolling near the surface or in channels, and cast your bait in their path. Another effective technique for targeting permit is using crab or shrimp as bait near the wrecks and flats. Permit have a keen sense of smell, so make sure to present your bait in a natural and enticing way.
May
Fish Species in May
May marks the beginning of the summer season in the Florida Keys, bringing a diverse range of fish species to target. One prominent fish species during this month is the bonefish. Known for their elusive behavior and speed, bonefish provide an exciting challenge for anglers. Another species to target in May is the snapper. Yellowtail and mangrove snapper can both be found near reefs and structures.
Best Fishing Techniques in May
When targeting bonefish in May, sight fishing is a popular technique. Look for shallow flats with clear water and keep an eye out for any signs of movement or tails breaking the surface. Cast your bait or lure ahead of the fish and allow it to sink naturally. When it comes to snapper fishing, using live shrimp or cut bait near the reefs can yield great results. Keep your bait on or near the bottom and be ready for quick strikes.
June
Fish Species in June
June brings warmer waters and a variety of fish species to target in the Florida Keys. One highly sought-after species during this month is the tarpon. Known for their acrobatic leaps and impressive size, tarpon offer an adrenaline-pumping experience for anglers. Another species worth mentioning in June is the permit. These fish can be found near the flats and wrecks, and are known for their challenging fight.
Best Fishing Techniques in June
To increase your chances of catching tarpon in June, consider using live bait such as mullet or crabs. Look for tarpon rolling near the surface or in channels, and cast your bait in their path. Another effective technique for targeting permit is using crab or shrimp as bait near the wrecks and flats. Permit have a keen sense of smell, so make sure to present your bait in a natural and enticing way.
July
Fish Species in July
July is a fantastic month for fishing in the Florida Keys, with various species available to target. One prominent species during this month is the mahi-mahi. Known for their vibrant colors and acrobatic jumps, mahi-mahi provide an exciting and rewarding catch for anglers. Another species worth targeting in July is the wahoo. These fast-swimming fish can be found near offshore structures and are known for their sharp teeth and powerful runs.
Best Fishing Techniques in July
When it comes to targeting mahi-mahi in July, trolling with lures or rigged ballyhoo can be extremely effective. Look for floating debris or weed lines, as these are prime spots for mahi-mahi to gather and feed. When targeting wahoo, high-speed trolling with lures such as diving plugs or skirted baits can entice these speedy fish to strike. Make sure to use wire leaders to prevent the wahoo’s sharp teeth from cutting your line.
August
Fish Species in August
August offers a diverse range of fish species to target in the Florida Keys. One notable species during this month is the swordfish. These elusive deep-sea fish are known for their powerful fights and impressive size. Another species worth mentioning in August is the yellowfin tuna. These fast and powerful fish can be found in the open Atlantic and are a favorite among offshore anglers.
Best Fishing Techniques in August
To increase your chances of landing a swordfish in August, deep dropping is a popular technique. Using specialized rigs and heavy weights, drop your bait near the ocean floor and wait for a bite. Patience is key when targeting swordfish, as they tend to feed deeper down during the daytime. When it comes to yellowfin tuna, trolling with cedar plugs, feathers, or skirted baits can help attract these speedy fish. Look for signs of bird activity or baitfish schools to locate yellowfin tuna hotspots.
September
Fish Species in September
September brings a new set of fish species to target in the Florida Keys. One highly sought-after species during this month is the bonefish. Known for their elusive behavior and speed, bonefish provide an exciting challenge for anglers. Another species worth mentioning in September is the redfish. These fish can be found near the mangroves and flats, and are known for their strong fights and beautiful colors.
Best Fishing Techniques in September
To target bonefish in September, sight fishing is a popular technique. Look for shallow flats with clear water and keep an eye out for any signs of movement or tails breaking the surface. Cast your bait or lure ahead of the fish and allow it to sink naturally. When it comes to redfish fishing, using live shrimp or cut bait near the mangroves and grassy flats can yield great results. Look for areas with grass patches or oyster beds, as redfish like to feed in these spots.
December
Fish Species in December
December offers a diverse range of fish species to target in the Florida Keys. One notable species during this month is the sailfish. Known for their impressive size and acrobatic jumps, sailfish provide an exhilarating experience for anglers. Another species worth mentioning in December is the king mackerel. These fast-swimming fish can be found near offshore structures and are known for their aggressive strikes.
Best Fishing Techniques in December
When it comes to targeting sailfish in December, trolling with lures or live bait can be extremely effective. Look for areas with strong currents and temperature changes, as these are common feeding grounds for sailfish. When targeting king mackerel, high-speed trolling with artificial lures such as spoons or plugs can attract these fast-swimming fish. Make sure to use wire leaders to prevent the king mackerel’s sharp teeth from cutting your line.
By following this comprehensive month-by-month guide to seasonal fishing in the Florida Keys, you can make the most out of your fishing trips throughout the year. Remember to always check the local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before heading out. Happy fishing!
