Get the latest fishing updates and expert advice with the Daily Fishing Report for the Florida Keys. Whether you're into deep-sea fishing, inshore angling, or exploring the vibrant reefs, this podcast provides daily updates on conditions, fish activity, and top fishing spots across the Keys. Perfect for anglers looking to maximize their Florida Keys fishing experience."
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Excellent Fishing Conditions in the Florida Keys - Tarpon, Mahi Mahi, and More Await Anglers
Friday, April 4, 2025 • Duration 03:23
Today's Florida Keys fishing report for April 4, 2025, promises excellent conditions and variety in the catch for anglers. The sunrise was at 7:15 AM, and sunset will be at 7:44 PM, offering plenty of daylight for fishing. Tidal movements today are favorable, with a high tide at 4:25 AM and another at 3:04 PM, while low tides occur at 7:59 AM and 10:48 PM. These tides create great opportunities for targeting both flats and reef species.
The weather is perfect for fishing, with calm seas and warm spring temperatures in the mid-80s. This is prime time for tarpon fishing, as the annual migration is in full swing, and massive schools are rolling across the surface in deeper channels. Live bait like mullet, pilchards, or large shrimp is recommended for tarpon, while soft plastic lures such as Hogy 10-inch Original Eel are also effective, especially in shallower waters.
On the reef and offshore, mahi mahi (dolphinfish) are starting to show up in bigger sizes just beyond the 100-150 ft mark near weed lines. Trolling with ballyhoo or artificial lures is highly effective. Wahoo are also being caught in similar depths, with deeper trolling setups proving successful. Reef fishing is producing good numbers of yellowtail snapper and grouper, responding well to live bait like pinfish or cut sardines while chumming the waters.
Within the flats around Islamorada, Key Largo, and the Lower Keys, bonefish action is excellent, and permit are being sighted as they move to spawn on the reefs. Small crabs or shrimp are the go-to baits for these species. The backcountry near Flamingo offers great opportunities for redfish, snook, and sea trout. Light tackle or fly fishing in these waters is especially rewarding.
Recent catches have been abundant, including tarpon, bonefish, permit, mahi mahi, yellowtail snapper, and grouper. Anglers have seen success near the Channel 2 Bridge and Lignumvitae Key for flats species like bonefish and tarpon, while offshore action for pelagic species is heating up. The Long Key Bridge and Toms Harbor Bridges are also popular for various snapper, grouper, and even cobia.
For lures, local favorites include the No Live Bait Needed (NLBN) 3-inch paddle tails for general use and weighted Pro Tail Eels for deeper water species, such as tarpon and wahoo. When targeting mahi mahi and other offshore species, trolling with squid skirts or diving plugs has proven effective.
Hotspots to consider today include the Channel 5 Bridge near Long Key for tarpon and snappers, and the reefs near Sombrero Key for mahi mahi, wahoo, and yellowtail. For flats fishing enthusiasts, the waters near Islamorada and the flats around Big Pine Key are delivering great action for bonefish and permit.
Tides, weather, and fish activity align perfectly today, making it a fantastic day to hit the waters of the Florida Keys. Tight lines, anglers!
"Angling Abundance in the Florida Keys: Tarpon, Mahi-Mahi, and More on This Ideal Fishing Day"
Friday, April 4, 2025 • Duration 02:52
Good morning, anglers! Today, April 4, 2025, the Florida Keys is offering fantastic fishing conditions. With clear skies and temperatures expected to range between the mid-70s and low-80s, it's an ideal day to hit the water. Sunrise was at 7:10 AM, and the sun will set at 7:28 PM, giving you plenty of daylight for your adventures. The tidal coefficient is high, starting at 95 and peaking at 102 by noon, resulting in strong currents and excellent fish activity, especially around the changing tides.
April is prime fishing season in the Keys, and today is no exception. Tarpon are the star of the show, rolling visibly on the surface near channels and bridges. Inshore anglers targeting the flats around Islamorada, the Middle Keys, and Lower Keys will find healthy populations of bonefish and some lingering permit. Offshore, larger mahi-mahi (dolphin fish) are moving into the 100 to 150-foot depths, often near weed lines or areas with bird activity. Wahoo and blackfin tuna are also giving offshore anglers plenty of action, especially when trolling deeper with weighted lures.
Recent catches have been plentiful. Anglers have reported excellent numbers of yellowtail snapper on the reefs, with fish biting in 30 to 80 feet of water where chumming has been successful. Backcountry anglers are hooking into redfish and sea trout near Flamingo and Florida Bay, with snook showing up close to shorelines in preparation for warmer months.
When it comes to bait and lures, live options like shrimp, pilchards, crabs, and pinfish are performing exceptionally well. For artificial lures, soft plastics like DOA Shrimp, paddle-tail jigs, and Hogy Eels are great for flats fishing. For trolling offshore, try weighted Pro Tail Eels or paddle-tail lures in black, purple, or glow patterns. Anglers targeting tarpon near bridges should use live crabs or large shrimp to increase their chances.
For hot spots, consider the Channel 5 and Channel 2 Bridges, which are known for tarpon, yellowtail snapper, and barracuda. The flats near Lignumvitae Key are also great for bonefish and tarpon, especially during high tide. Offshore anglers should head out from Marathon or Big Pine Key to find mahi-mahi and blackfin tuna.
With today’s favorable conditions and a variety of active species, it’s a perfect day to enjoy the Florida Keys’ vibrant waters. Tight lines and good luck out there!
Reel in the Keys Fishing Report March 2025 - Tarpon, Mahi, and More!
Saturday, March 22, 2025 • Duration 02:02
Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Florida Keys fishing report for March 22, 2025. Let me tell you, the fishing's been hotter than a Key West summer lately!
Weather's looking mighty fine today, with temps in the mid-70s and a light southeast breeze at 10 knots. Sunrise was at 6:32 AM, and we're looking at sunset around 7:24 PM. Tides are running about average, with high tide at 10:45 AM and low tide at 4:30 PM.
The fish have been biting like crazy this past week. We've seen a ton of tarpon rolling in the backcountry, especially around Islamorada. Bonefish and permit are thick on the flats too. Offshore, the mahi mahi bite has been insane, with lots of 15-20 pounders being brought in. Yellowtail snapper are still plentiful on the reef, and we've even had reports of some big wahoo being landed.
For you artificial enthusiasts, I've been having great luck with the DOA 3" shrimp in glow color for the flats. Offshore, can't go wrong with a blue and white Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow for trolling. If you're hitting the reef, try a 3/8 oz jighead with a Gulp Shrimp in new penny color.
Live bait's been working well too. Pilchards and pinfish are like candy for the snappers and groupers. For the flats, live shrimp under a popping cork is still the go-to.
As for hot spots, I'd highly recommend checking out the Islamorada Hump for some epic offshore action. If you're looking to stay inshore, the flats around Lower Matecumbe Key have been on fire lately.
Remember folks, the early bird gets the worm, or in our case, the fish! So get out there and tight lines to ya!
"Fishing in the Florida Keys: A Promising Day on the Water"
Monday, September 30, 2024 • Duration 02:33
As of September 30, 2024, the fishing scene in the Florida Keys is looking promising. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.
### Weather and Tides The weather forecast is calling for sunny skies and light winds, making it an ideal day to get out on the water. Tides are expected to be moderate, with the high tide around mid-morning and the low tide in the late afternoon.
### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise is at about 7:15 AM, and sunset will be around 7:30 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to fish.
### Fish Activity Yesterday saw a lot of activity, particularly with Tarpon, which have been biting well since late spring. Snook season just opened on September 1, and these hard-fighting fish are really firing up, especially around the deeper cuts and mangrove islands. Grouper are also plentiful, and with the water temperatures still high, they are active and ready to take your bait.
### Types and Amounts of Fish Anglers reported catching several large Tarpon, many of which were released. Snook catches were abundant, with some fish reaching up to 20 pounds. Grouper, including both black and red grouper, were also common catches. Other species like trout and red fish were also landed in good numbers.
### Best Lures and Bait For Snook, live bait such as pilchards, mullet, and shrimp are working well. Artificial lures like jigs and spoons are also effective, especially when used around structure. For Grouper, live or frozen baitfish like pinfish or grunts are highly recommended. Tarpon are being caught on a variety of baits, including live crabs and large jigs.
### Hot Spots Some of the best places to fish right now include the deeper cuts around the mangrove islands, particularly those near Marathon. The bridges and channels connecting the Keys are also hot spots for Snook and Tarpon. For Grouper, try fishing around the reefs and wrecks, where these bottom-dwellers tend to congregate.
Overall, it's shaping up to be a great day for fishing in the Florida Keys. Make sure to take advantage of the good weather and active fish to make the most of your time on the water.
Fishing the Florida Keys: A Day on the Water with Snapper, Tarpon, and More
Sunday, September 29, 2024 • Duration 03:00
As of September 29, 2024, the fishing scene in the Florida Keys is buzzing with activity. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.
### Weather and Tides The weather is looking great, with clear skies and a gentle breeze out of the southeast at about 10 mph. Water temperatures are still warm, hovering around 84°F. For today, expect a high tide at around 10:30 AM and a low tide at 4:30 PM, which should provide optimal conditions for both inshore and offshore fishing.
### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise is at 7:15 AM, and sunset will be at 7:23 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to explore the waters.
### Fish Activity Yesterday saw a strong bite on the reef, particularly for yellowtail snapper. Anglers reported catching good quantities at depths of around 60 feet, with better quality fish found at depths of 80 to 100 feet. Mutton snappers were also active inside 150 feet around Rex Ledges and sand flats, with live pinfish and balao proving to be effective baits.
Offshore, mahi-mahi were spotted in the 2300-foot range, although the catch was not as plentiful as hoped. However, the presence of blue marlin and sailfish just past the reef is promising for those targeting larger game fish.
Inshore, juvenile tarpon are abundant in the residential canals, and snook are starting to fire up nicely around the deeper cuts and mangrove islands, especially with live bait.
### Best Lures and Bait For yellowtail snapper, chumming heavily and using live bait such as pinfish or balao is highly effective. For mutton snappers, long leaders with live bait are recommended. Snook are biting well on live bait, particularly around the incoming tide in deeper cuts and mangrove islands.
Offshore, look for organized weed lines and bird activity to locate mahi-mahi. For larger game fish like marlin and sailfish, trolling with appropriate lures and keeping an eye out for bait schools is key.
### Hot Spots One of the hot spots right now is the reef area around Marathon, where the yellowtail snapper bite has been excellent. Another good spot is the area around Rex Ledges and sand flats for mutton snappers. For inshore fishing, the residential canals and deeper cuts around the mangrove islands are great for tarpon and snook.
Overall, it's shaping up to be a fantastic day for fishing in the Florida Keys, with a variety of species active and favorable conditions. Make sure to take advantage of the tides and use the right bait and lures to maximize your catch.
Fishing the Florida Keys: Transitional Conditions and Abundant Catches
Saturday, September 28, 2024 • Duration 02:53
As of September 28, 2024, the Florida Keys are offering some exceptional fishing conditions, despite the transitional weather patterns.
### Weather and Tides The weather in the Keys is characterized by mild temperatures, with highs in the lower 80s and lows in the mid-70s. However, this time of year is known for its unpredictable weather, with cold fronts moving in every few days, bringing strong winds and rainy days. Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a chance of scattered thunderstorms. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at around 9:30 AM and a low tide at 3:30 PM.
### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise is at 7:14 AM, and sunset is at 7:24 PM, providing ample daylight for a full day of fishing.
### Fish Activity The fish activity in the Florida Keys is vibrant, especially with the fall transition underway. The cooling temperatures and changing weather patterns are activating the backcountry fishing, particularly in the flats and backcountry waters. Yesterday saw a significant catch of grouper, snapper, and tarpon.
### Types and Amounts of Fish Grouper are plentiful, especially around the reefs and structures. Snapper, both yellowtail and mangrove, are active in the shallower waters. Tarpon are also abundant, particularly in the areas around Boca Grande Pass and the beaches. Other species like kingfish, sailfish, and even some marlin are still present, although their numbers are decreasing as the season winds down.
### Best Lures and Bait For grouper and snapper, live bait such as pilchards and mullet is highly effective. These baits can be used with a cast net to catch them fresh. For tarpon, fly fishing with large streamers or using live bait like crabs and shrimp can be very successful. When targeting kingfish and sailfish, trolling with spoons or using live bait like ballyhoo is recommended.
### Hot Spots One of the hot spots right now is the area around the reefs just off Key West. The changing weather is stirring up the deep water, bringing baitfish and larger game fish to the surface. Another excellent spot is the backcountry waters of the Everglades, where the cooling temperatures are making the fish more active.
Overall, the Florida Keys are offering a fantastic fishing experience this time of year, with a variety of species and exciting fishing conditions. Just be sure to keep an eye on the weather, as tropical systems can quickly change the fishing landscape.
Fishing the Florida Keys: Battling Storms and Catching a Variety of Species This Fall Season
Friday, September 27, 2024 • Duration 02:43
As of September 27, 2024, the Florida Keys are offering some fantastic fishing opportunities, despite the transitional weather patterns.
### Weather and Tides The weather in the Keys is feeling like the tail end of summer, with air temperatures hovering around the lower 80s. However, a large storm front that blew through from Wednesday to Friday has left behind some unsettled conditions. Expect mild winds, but be prepared for occasional showers and thunderstorms, which are common this time of year. Sunrise today is at around 7:15 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 7:30 PM. Tides are moderate, with high tide in the morning and low tide in the late afternoon.
### Fish Activity Yesterday saw a lot of action in the waters of the Florida Keys. In the backcountry and flats, anglers were catching a good number of red fish, mangrove snapper, and Spanish mackerel. The reef and offshore waters were also productive, with reports of mahi-mahi, wahoo, and sailfish being caught.
### Types and Amounts of Fish Red fish and mangrove snapper were plentiful in the bay areas, with many anglers reporting multiple catches. Offshore, the mahi-mahi were active, particularly in areas with good baitfish activity. Wahoo and sailfish were also spotted, although in smaller numbers compared to the inshore species.
### Best Lures and Bait For inshore fishing, live bait such as pilchards and shrimp were highly effective. For those using lures, jigs and soft plastics worked well for red fish and snapper. Offshore, trolling with lures that mimic baitfish, such as spoons and plugs, were successful for catching mahi-mahi and wahoo. Live bait like ballyhoo and squid were also effective for the larger offshore species.
### Hot Spots One of the hot spots right now is the Hawks Cay area, where the marina offers easy access to both inshore and offshore fishing grounds. Another spot is the Key West flats, particularly around the mangrove islands, where the red fish and snapper are abundant.
Overall, the fishing in the Florida Keys is heating up as we transition into fall, with a variety of species available and favorable weather conditions despite the occasional storms. Make sure to check the local forecasts and be prepared for changing weather, but the fishing is definitely worth the effort.
Fishing the Florida Keys in Late September: Yellowtails, Muttons, and Tarpon Galore
Thursday, September 26, 2024 • Duration 02:55
As of September 26, 2024, the Florida Keys are offering some fantastic fishing opportunities. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.
### Weather and Tides The weather is looking great with clear skies and a gentle breeze out of the southeast at about 10 miles per hour. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at around 9:30 AM and a low tide at 3:30 PM. Sunrise was at 7:14 AM, and sunset will be at 7:24 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to fish.
### Fish Activity Yesterday saw a lot of action in both inshore and offshore waters. The yellowtail snapper bite on the reef has been excellent, particularly at depths of around 60 to 90 feet. You can expect about one out of five yellowtails to be keepers in the 60-foot range, while the deeper waters yield larger fish but fewer in number.
Mutton snappers are active inside 150 feet around Rex Ledges and sand flats, responding well to long leaders with live bait like balo and pinfish. Mangrove snappers are thriving in the backcountry, taking live pinfish and other live baits.
Tarpon fishing is picking up, with juvenile tarpon showing up in residential canals and following pilchards. Offshore, mahi-mahi were caught in the 2300-foot range, and while the wahoo bite has been slow, it’s expected to improve soon.
### Best Lures and Bait For yellowtail snappers, heavy chumming is key, especially since there are fewer boats out this time of year. Use live bait like balo and pinfish for mutton and mangrove snappers. For tarpon, live pilchards and other small baitfish are effective.
Offshore, look for birds and organized weed lines when targeting mahi-mahi. For wahoo, high-speed and low-speed trolling can be effective, though the bite has been slow lately.
### Hot Spots One of the hot spots right now is around the Marathon Humps, where you can catch golden tilefish, snowy grouper, and even swordfish. The reef areas around 60 to 90 feet deep are great for yellowtail snappers, and the backcountry is ideal for mangrove snappers.
Another spot worth checking out is the residential canals for tarpon, especially where pilchards are abundant. For offshore fishing, areas around 18 miles out in waters over 700 feet deep have shown promise for mahi-mahi.
Overall, it's a great time to be fishing in the Florida Keys, with a variety of species active and plenty of opportunities to land some impressive catches.
'Fishing the Florida Keys: Marlin, Wahoo, and Sailfish Await Your Hook'
Wednesday, September 25, 2024 • Duration 03:02
As of September 25, 2024, the Florida Keys are offering ideal conditions for a memorable fishing trip. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your day on the water.
**Weather Conditions:** The morning is greeted with warm temperatures, ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. Expect a gentle breeze with wind speeds around 10-15 miles per hour, and a slight chance of scattered showers, but nothing to dampen your spirits.
**Water Conditions:** The water level is normal, with a temperature of around 84 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for a variety of fish species. The water clarity is good, making it easier to spot your targets.
**Best Fishing Spots:** For today, focus on the offshore waters for species like marlin, wahoo, and sailfish. The marlin season is in full swing from March to October, with the best months being April to July.
**Recommended Bait and Tackle:** - For marlin, use large lures or live bait such as bonito or tuna. Tackle should include heavy rods and reels with at least 50-pound test line. - Wahoo are active from April to August, with June to August being the peak months. Use high-speed lures or rigged baits like ballyhoo. - Sailfish are plentiful from January to August, with February to April being the best time. Live bait such as pilchards or blue runners work well, along with light to medium tackle.
**Fish Activity:** Marlin are likely to be found in deeper waters, often around 100-200 feet deep, feeding on larger prey. Wahoo tend to stay in the upper water column, around 50-100 feet deep, and are known for their aggressive feeding behavior. Sailfish can be found near the surface, feeding on schools of baitfish.
**Local Tips:** Captain Jeff Hagaman, an expert in southwest Florida waters, advises to look for sailfish near weed lines and current edges where baitfish congregate. For wahoo, try trolling at high speeds to mimic their natural prey.
**Best Times for Fishing:** The best times to fish today are early morning and late afternoon. The early morning hours offer calm seas and active fish, while the late afternoon can see a surge in activity as the sun begins to set.
**Local Events and Regulations:** Be aware of any local fishing tournaments and ensure you are within catch limits. Currently, there are no major closures, but always check with local authorities for any updates on fishing regulations.With these conditions and tips, you’re set for an exciting day of fishing in the Florida Keys. Enjoy the beautiful waters and the thrill of reeling in your next big catch
Fishing the Florida Keys: Gearing Up for the End of Scallop Season
Tuesday, September 24, 2024 • Duration 03:41
As of September 24, 2024, the Florida Keys are gearing up for another exciting day of fishing, despite the approaching end of scallop season. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your fishing adventure.
### Weather Conditions Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high temperature of around 88 degrees Fahrenheit and a gentle breeze of about 10 miles per hour. There is a slight chance of scattered showers, but nothing that should dampen your fishing plans.
### Water Conditions The water level is normal, with a temperature of approximately 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The clarity is good, making it ideal for spotting fish.
### Best Fishing Spots For those targeting inshore species, the mangrove shorelines and deeper cuts around the islands are hot spots. Here, you can find snook, mangrove snappers, and even some groupers. If you have access to a boat, head over to Hawk Channel, where you can look for bait schools and bird diving activity, indicating the presence of cobia, mahi-mahi, and kingfish.
### Bait and Tackle For snook and mangrove snappers, live bait such as mullet or shrimp is highly effective. Use medium to heavy surf rods and consider adding a PVC pipe into the sand to secure your line. For offshore fishing, particularly for species like wahoo and mahi-mahi, use your depth finder to locate schools of bait. Live pilchards and crabs are excellent choices for these predatory fish.
### Fish Activity Snook are particularly active during the incoming tide around the deeper cuts and mangrove islands. They are hard-fighting fish and can be caught using live bait or artificial lures. Cobia tend to follow large rays and turtles, so keep an eye out for these indicators. Permit are active in the back country, especially around the flats and channels, and are attracted to live crabs skipped along the surface.
### Local Events and Regulations Today marks the last day of scallop season, so if you're interested in scalloping, make sure to get out there before it closes. There are no major local events today, but always check the local fishing regulations for catch limits and any closures. For example, marlin season is still open until October, but the peak season has passed.
### Tips from Local Anglers Captain Carlos Lima of CNC Aqua Adventures advises keeping an eye on the weather, as September is peak hurricane season. He recommends fishing around the new moon phase, which was a few days ago, for optimal current and fish activity. For those fishing in the back country, Captain Lima suggests targeting bonefish and permit during the early morning and late afternoon when they are most active.### Best Times for FishingThe best times for fishing today will be around the early morning and late afternoon, coinciding with the changing tides. For offshore fishing, the period around the full moon, which was on the 17th, still offers very high tides and strong currents, making it ideal for species like wahoo and mahi-mahi.With these tips and conditions in mind, you're set for a fantastic day of fishing in the Florida Keys. Enjoy your time on the water and make the most of this transitional month that promises phenomenal fishing opportunities.
