So that you make the most of your Florida Keys fishing trips, it is important to know the Florida Keys fishing season. Fishing in these seasons will enable you to catch the fishes of your dreams. This includes Redfish (Bonefish), Sailfish (Sailfish), Grouper (and other species). Below, you will find tips on the best time of the year to visit the Keys. These fishing seasons will enable you to get more for your money as well as give you the chance to have a better time fishing in the Keys.
Redfish
The water temperature determines the Florida Keys redfish fishing seasons. Redfish prefer to eat in the shallows in winter when the water temperature is higher. They are attracted to baitfish by the mangroves that provide cover. Redfish fishing should be slow and steady during this period. A single knock on the boat can send a school Redfish running for deeper waters.
Bonefish
If you love fighting fish, then the Florida Keys fishing conditions for bonefish are perfect for you. These fish are tough and fast, and will do almost anything to catch your catch. Bonefish can run away from anglers or charge them, so it's important to learn how to properly handle them. While a typical fight with bonefish can be fairly straightforward, it is important to be ready for a long fight.
Sailfish
Sailfish fishing seasons in Florida Keys vary depending on where you are located. The spring is when they are most active, as east winds push the dark waters of the bottom towards the surface. This makes sailfish excellent sight fishermen. However, these fishing season are also the busiest times for other species. The importance of choosing a location is paramount.
Grouper
The Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico control grouper fishing seasons within the Florida Keys. Gulf waters extend nine nautical miles offshore, while Atlantic state waters are three nautical miles offshore. While the Gulf has no set size limit, all state waters require that anglers use non-stainless steel hooks. You must also use dehooking tools for Atlantic fishery. The Atlantic fishery also requires non-offset circular hooks.
Permit fishing
The best times to fish for permit in the Florida Keys are year-round, but there are certain months when fishing will be most productive. It is easy for permit spawning season to begin at the beginning of spring, making it easier to catch fish. June is a great time to fish permits, since the water temperature and spawning season are over. Fly fishing is also possible as the weather is more calm.
Blue marlin
Blue marlin are a rare species in the Florida Keys. However, they can still be caught and released. Typically weighing between 150 and 600 pounds, these fish are caught and released. Blue Marlin also commonly swim the Atlantic and Gulf waters, but prefer to feed in deeper water. The Gulf Shrimp boats have been known to house this fish in the spring and summer. Blue Marlin fishing in winter can be challenging.
Bonefishing on the Intracoastal Waterway
The Florida Keys are a great place to enjoy bonefishing. Bonefish is a state-famous gamefish and have been called the "grey spirit of the flats." These fast-swimming, stealthy fish are a real thrill to catch and can reach a length of three feet and weigh up to fifteen pounds. While you can fish for bonefish throughout the year in the Keys, peak fishing season occurs from March to October. However, the fish are not active during these months and are likely to be breeding in deep water.
Sailfishing in the Intracoastal Waterway
The Intracoastal Waterway in the Florida keys runs from Fort Myers to Longboat Key, passing through Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. There are many fishing opportunities in this network of backwaters, canals, and channels. The inlet waters are home for redfish, tuna grouper, snapper and bluefish. There are many local ramps that make it easy to get on the water.
FAQ
What happens to a fish that is lost while I'm fishing?
You will lose fish sometimes. Sometimes you will catch a fish only to lose it later. Keep trying until you catch another fish. You will eventually catch another one.
What distance should I fish from the shore?
You are more likely to catch fish the further you stand from shore. However, it also increases the chance of getting soaked.
What is the correct length fishing rod?
The size of the fish you want to catch will dictate the length of the fishing rod. A 6'6' rod would work best if you are looking for smallmouth Bass. However, if you're looking for largemouth bass, a 7'5" rod might work better.
Statistics
- You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
- Orvis, Simms, and Fishpond have been making some of the best packs and vests for a long time, and it seems like 90% of the anglers around the area use these brands. (troutandsteelhead.net)
- To substantiate this theory, Knight attempted a systematic inquiry by considering the timing of 200 'record' catches, more than 90 percent were made during a new moon (when no moon is visible). (myfwc.com)
- For most freshwater species you are most likely to target when first starting out, a reel size of 20 to 30 should be more than enough! (strikeandcatch.com)
External Links
How To
Finding the Best Fishing Spot
It is important to know the type of fish that you are looking for in order to find the best spots for fishing. You need to decide if you want deep sea fishing, or shallow water fishing. Deep sea fishing is expensive and requires a boat. Shallow water fishing requires no boat and can be done from shore. Deep water fishing would be the best option for trout fishermen. You'll need to travel to deeper water if you are looking for barracuda.
You can choose from many different kinds of fishing spots depending on your preferences. Some places only offer one type, while others offer multiple options. One example is that some areas are known for their bass fishing and others specialize in fly-fishing. Others are known for their shark fishing, crabbing, and other activities.
The best way for you to decide where to go is to consider your budget, what you want to do, and how long it will take. Do you enjoy camping? If so, you might be interested in a spot near a lake. Are you more interested in city life? Perhaps you prefer the beaches. Perhaps you even like to go canoeing, sailing or scuba diving.
Ask someone who is familiar with fishing. They may be able tell you about many things, including where and when to go.
You can even search online for fishing spots near you. This will give a lot of options. You can narrow down your options by reading customer reviews and rating. There are plenty of websites that allow you to do this.
Once you've chosen a place, go to it before you leave. You should always have the directions handy as sometimes it can take longer to get there than you expected. Be sure to have all you will need. Don't forget your tackle box, bait, and sunscreen!
It is also a good idea research the weather conditions at the fishing spot. The forecast can help you determine the best time to go. If the weather is changing, it's a good idea to make changes to your plans.
You now have the information you need to plan your trip. The next step is deciding what you're going to use to fish.