Florida Keys Fishing in September

Florida Keys Fishing in September: What’s Biting and Where

September might not be the first month that comes to mind when planning a Florida Keys fishing trip.

That can be part of its appeal.

Summer vacation season is winding down, but warm water and plenty of fishing opportunities remain. Offshore anglers can still look for mahi-mahi, while permit, snapper, blackfin tuna and other species give you additional options.

September is also a transition month.

Summer fishing patterns haven’t completely disappeared, while some of the fish associated with the cooler months begin becoming more interesting as fall approaches.

So, what can you catch?

Here’s what to know about fishing the Florida Keys in September.

What Fish Are Biting in the Florida Keys in September?

Some of the fish you may encounter during September include:

• Mahi-mahi
• Permit
• Blackfin tuna
• Yellowtail snapper
• Mutton snapper
• Tarpon
• Bonefish
• Barracuda
• Sharks
• King mackerel

Exactly what’s biting can vary considerably depending on water temperature, currents, weather, bait and where in the Keys you’re fishing.

That’s why it’s worth checking recent fishing reports or talking to a local captain shortly before your trip.

Is September a Good Month to Fish the Florida Keys?

Yes.

September can give anglers a wide range of possibilities.

You can fish offshore for pelagic species, work reefs and wrecks for snapper, fish the flats for permit and bonefish, head into the backcountry or spend the day fishing from shore.

Mahi-mahi are particularly worth considering. Florida Keys tourism information describes dolphin, another common name for mahi-mahi, fishing as beginning around April and continuing through September.

September also falls within a productive period for permit, which are found in the Keys year-round but can be particularly abundant from spring through early fall.

Rather than thinking of September as the end of summer fishing, think of it as a month when several summer opportunities are still hanging around while fishing gradually begins shifting toward fall.

Mahi-Mahi Fishing in September

If mahi-mahi are on your Florida Keys wish list, don’t automatically rule out September.

Mahi season often receives the most attention earlier in summer, but fish can continue moving through Keys waters into September.

Offshore anglers commonly look for signs such as:

• Weed lines
• Floating debris
• Birds working over the water
• Current edges
• Schools of baitfish
• Temperature changes

Finding structure or activity offshore can turn an otherwise empty stretch of ocean into a very different situation.

Mahi are also one of the better species for families and first-time offshore anglers because schooling fish can sometimes create fast action once they’re located.

September mahi fishing isn’t guaranteed, of course.

Nothing in fishing is.

But it’s certainly worth discussing with your captain if you’re booking an offshore trip.

Permit Fishing in September

September can also be a very interesting month for permit.

Permit are one of the Florida Keys’ most respected gamefish and can be targeted around:

• Flats
• Channels
• Wrecks
• Structure
• Deeper water

They have a reputation for being frustratingly difficult to fool, which is precisely why so many anglers become obsessed with catching one.

Live crabs are a popular bait for permit, although tactics vary depending on where the fish are holding.

If catching your first permit is a major goal, tell your guide before booking.

A captain who regularly targets permit may plan a very different trip than one primarily running offshore mahi or reef-fishing charters.

Tarpon Fishing in September

The famous spring tarpon migration gets most of the attention in the Florida Keys.

That doesn’t mean every tarpon suddenly leaves when summer ends.

Resident fish can provide opportunities outside the peak migration.

September shouldn’t necessarily be your first choice if you’re planning an entire Florida Keys vacation around catching a giant migrating tarpon.

But if you’re already visiting in September, ask your guide about local tarpon opportunities.

You may still find fish around channels, bridges, backcountry areas and other productive water.

Tarpon are primarily a catch-and-release fishery in Florida, and large tarpon have special handling requirements. Check the current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rules before fishing.

Yellowtail Snapper Fishing in September

Want to bring home dinner?

Reef fishing deserves serious consideration.

Yellowtail snapper are one of the classic Florida Keys reef species.

They’re beautiful fish, fun on light tackle and popular on the dinner table.

Yellowtail fishing typically involves setting up around a reef and using chum to create a steady stream that attracts fish behind the boat.

Presentation can matter.

Clear Florida Keys water can make fish cautious, so lighter leaders and naturally drifting baits can sometimes make a big difference.

A good reef trip can also produce more than yellowtails, which makes this a nice option for anglers more interested in action than chasing one particular trophy fish.

Mutton Snapper Fishing in September

Mutton snapper are another prized Keys species.

They can be found around:

• Reefs
• Wrecks
• Drop-offs
• Rocky bottom
• Other structure

Muttons can grow considerably larger than many of the yellowtails anglers catch around the reef.

They can also require a different approach.

Live bait, dead bait and various bottom-fishing techniques can all come into play.

If your goal is a big mutton snapper, booking with someone who regularly fishes reefs and wrecks is usually a better choice than simply choosing a general fishing charter.

Blackfin Tuna Fishing in September

Blackfin tuna give offshore anglers another possible September target.

These fish are fast, powerful and capable of giving surprisingly tough fights for their size.

They may be caught while trolling, live-baiting or using other offshore techniques.

Blackfin can also show up while you’re looking for completely different fish.

That uncertainty is part of what makes offshore fishing in the Keys so much fun.

You might leave the dock looking for mahi and end up catching tuna.

King Mackerel Fishing in September

September also marks the beginning of a period when king mackerel become increasingly relevant in the Florida Keys.

Kings, commonly called kingfish, are built for speed.

They have sharp teeth and can make screaming runs when hooked.

They’re commonly targeted around reefs, wrecks and offshore structure using live bait or trolling techniques.

If the mahi fishing isn’t cooperating, kingfish can provide another possible offshore option as conditions begin changing toward fall.

Bonefish in September

Don’t overlook the flats.

Bonefish are one of the signature shallow-water gamefish of the Florida Keys.

They’re not gigantic fish, but hook one in shallow water and you’ll quickly understand why people travel thousands of miles to catch them.

Bonefish are known for blistering runs and extremely good eyesight.

That makes stealth important.

Anglers typically sight-fish them on shallow flats using light spinning tackle or fly gear.

A calm September morning on the flats can be an entirely different experience from trolling offshore.

Reef Fishing in September

If you don’t care which species you catch and mainly want steady action, reef fishing may be one of your better choices.

Florida’s coral reef tract runs along the Keys and creates habitat for a huge variety of marine life.

Depending on location and regulations, reef trips may produce:

• Yellowtail snapper
• Mutton snapper
• Grouper
• Barracuda
• Sharks
• Jacks
• Mackerel
• Other reef species

Reef fishing can also work well for families.

You generally don’t need to run as far as you might on an offshore mahi trip, and there may be more opportunities to keep rods bent.

Offshore Fishing in September

Heading offshore gives you a shot at mahi-mahi, blackfin tuna and other pelagic fish.

But offshore fishing can be unpredictable.

Fish move.

Currents change.

Weed lines break apart.

Bait disappears.

A spot that was loaded yesterday could look empty today.

Experienced captains aren’t simply driving to GPS coordinates and dropping lines.

They’re constantly looking for clues.

That’s one reason hiring a knowledgeable local charter can be particularly useful if you only have one day available to fish.

Backcountry Fishing in September

There’s another Florida Keys fishing experience many first-time visitors overlook.

The backcountry.

Head toward Florida Bay and you’ll find a completely different environment from the blue-water Atlantic side.

Depending on location and conditions, anglers may encounter:

• Tarpon
• Sharks
• Barracuda
• Snappers
• Jacks
• Other shallow-water species

A backcountry trip can also be a good alternative when offshore conditions aren’t attractive.

Ask your captain whether a backcountry trip makes sense based on the forecast.

Where Is the Best Place to Fish in the Florida Keys in September?

There isn’t one winner.

Your target species should determine where you stay and where you fish.

Key Largo

Key Largo provides access to reefs, offshore water and Florida Bay.

It can work particularly well for travelers driving down from mainland South Florida who don’t want to continue several more hours into the Keys.

Islamorada

Islamorada is one of the best-known fishing destinations in the Florida Keys.

From here, anglers can access offshore water, reefs, flats and Florida Bay.

That makes Islamorada particularly useful if you want to fish more than one style during your vacation.

You might fish offshore for mahi one day and head into the backcountry the next.

Marathon

Marathon’s Middle Keys location gives anglers easy access to both sides of the islands.

Reef, wreck, bridge and offshore fishing are all options.

Marathon is also worth considering for families who want a fishing trip combined with a Keys vacation.

Lower Keys

The Lower Keys are particularly attractive to anglers interested in shallow-water and backcountry fishing.

Bonefish, permit and tarpon can all enter the conversation depending on conditions.

Key West

Key West gives anglers access to an enormous range of fishing.

You can target flats species one day and head offshore looking for pelagic fish the next.

That’s one reason Key West works well for groups where not everyone wants the same style of fishing.

Can You Fish From Shore in September?

Absolutely.

You don’t need to hire a boat every time you want to wet a line in the Keys.

September shore-fishing options can include:

• Fishing bridges
• Piers
• Shorelines
• Parks
• Beaches where fishing is permitted

Bridge fishing can put you over surprisingly deep water without ever stepping on a boat.

Depending on location, you may encounter snapper, barracuda, jacks, sharks and other species.

Just make sure fishing is permitted at the specific location.

Best Bait for Florida Keys Fishing in September

There’s no single best bait because you’re potentially fishing for completely different species.

Common natural baits can include:

• Shrimp
• Pilchards
• Ballyhoo
• Crabs
• Squid
• Cut bait
• Live baitfish

Artificial lures can also be extremely effective.

Your bait choice should be based on the species, depth and fishing method rather than the month alone.

What’s the Weather Like in September?

Weather deserves special attention when planning a September Florida Keys fishing trip.

September is hot and humid.

Early departures can make fishing much more comfortable, particularly if you’re planning to spend hours in direct sunlight.

Thunderstorms can also affect plans.

And then there’s the biggest consideration:

Hurricane season.

September falls near the climatological peak of Atlantic hurricane activity.

That doesn’t mean a hurricane is going to affect your trip.

Most September days in the Keys obviously do not involve hurricanes.

It does mean you should keep an eye on tropical forecasts as your vacation approaches.

If you’re booking a charter, hotel or vacation rental, look at cancellation and rescheduling policies before paying.

Should You Book a Morning or Afternoon Charter?

I’d lean toward morning in September unless your captain recommends otherwise.

There are several reasons:

• Temperatures are usually more comfortable.
• Winds may be lighter.
• Afternoon thunderstorms can become an issue.
• You get back before the hottest part of the day.

That doesn’t mean afternoon fishing can’t be good.

The fish don’t read travel guides.

If a captain tells you a particular tide or bite is better later in the day, local knowledge may outweigh the general preference for an early departure.

Half-Day or Full-Day Charter in September?

This depends largely on what you’re targeting.

Half-Day Trip

Consider a half-day charter if:

• You’re fishing with young kids.
• You’re new to fishing.
• You mainly want reef or backcountry action.
• Fishing is only one part of your vacation.
• You’re concerned about the September heat.

Full-Day Trip

Consider a full day if:

• Mahi-mahi are your main target.
• You want to fish farther offshore.
• You’re an experienced angler.
• Fishing is the main reason you’re visiting.
• You want maximum flexibility if the fish move.

Offshore captains sometimes need time to find productive water.

That extra time can matter.

What Should You Bring Fishing in September?

A September Florida Keys fishing trip can be hot, sunny and wet, sometimes all in the same day.

Consider bringing:

• Polarized sunglasses
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Lightweight sun-protective clothing
• Rain jacket
• Water
• Snacks
• Non-slip shoes
• Phone or camera
• Waterproof bag for valuables
• Motion-sickness medication if needed

Ask your charter what they already provide.

There’s no point dragging a giant tackle bag onto the boat if rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice and coolers are already included.

What About Fishing Licenses?

Fishing-license requirements depend on where you’re fishing and how you’re fishing.

Passengers aboard properly licensed saltwater charter vessels are often covered by the vessel’s license.

If you’re fishing on your own from a bridge, beach, kayak, private boat or shoreline, different requirements may apply.

Check Florida’s current rules before your trip rather than assuming you’re covered.

Check Fishing Regulations Before Keeping Anything

This part matters.

Do not use an old fishing article to determine whether you can keep a fish.

Florida fishing regulations can involve:

• Open and closed seasons
• Minimum sizes
• Maximum sizes
• Bag limits
• Vessel limits
• Special management zones
• Gear restrictions
• State versus federal waters

Rules can change.

Before keeping fish, check the current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations for the exact location and species you’re fishing.

Your captain should also know the current regulations if you’re fishing aboard a charter.

Is September a Good Time to Hire a Fishing Charter?

It can be.

September gives you enough different fishing possibilities that hiring a captain can help you make the most of the conditions you actually encounter.

Instead of booking a trip with your mind completely set on one species, consider telling the captain:

“We’d like to catch mahi, but we’re open to whatever gives us the best fishing that day.”

That’s often a better strategy.

If mahi have disappeared but the reef bite is fantastic, being flexible could turn an otherwise frustrating trip into one of the best days of your vacation.

Florida Keys September Fishing FAQ

What fish can you catch in the Florida Keys in September?

Potential September targets include mahi-mahi, permit, blackfin tuna, yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, bonefish, tarpon, barracuda, sharks and other reef and offshore species.

Can you catch mahi-mahi in September?

Yes. Mahi-mahi can still be caught in Keys waters during September, although their location and abundance vary with ocean conditions.

Can you catch tarpon in September?

Tarpon can be encountered in September, but the famous spring and early-summer migration is no longer at its peak. Resident fish can still provide opportunities.

Is September good for permit fishing?

September can be an excellent month to consider targeting permit. Permit occur in the Keys throughout the year, with particularly good opportunities during the warmer months.

Is September good for reef fishing?

Yes. Reef fishing can provide opportunities for yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper and numerous other species.

Is September too hot to fish in the Florida Keys?

It can be very hot, but plenty of people fish during September. Leaving early, staying hydrated and wearing good sun protection makes the experience more comfortable.

Are hurricanes a problem in September?

September is part of Atlantic hurricane season and is near the historical peak of tropical activity. That makes checking forecasts and flexible cancellation policies particularly useful when planning a trip.

Is Key West or Islamorada better for September fishing?

Both can be excellent. Your choice should be based more on the type of fishing you want to do than on September alone.

Should You Visit the Florida Keys to Fish in September?

September has one major advantage for anglers:

Options.

You can chase remaining summer mahi offshore.

You can fish reefs for snapper.

You can hunt permit or bonefish on the flats.

You can head into the backcountry.

Or you can grab a rod and spend a few hours fishing from a bridge.

The weather requires some flexibility, and tropical systems always deserve attention this time of year.

But don’t make the mistake of assuming Florida Keys fishing ends when summer vacation season does.

There’s still plenty of fishing to do.

If September is when you can make the trip, pack your sunglasses, set the alarm early and go fishing. Check out our Keys Fishing Calendar for other times of the yeas. Also, check the FWC site.