Knowing the Florida Keys fishing conditions is key to making the most of your trip. Fishing during these seasons will help you to catch the fish of your dreams, including Redfish, Bonefish, Sailfish, Grouper, and other species. Below you'll find some tips on when is the best time to visit the Keys. These fishing seasons will allow you to get the most value for your money, and also give you a better fishing experience in the Keys.
Redfish
The water temperature determines the Florida Keys redfish fishing seasons. Redfish find the warmest water temperatures in winter and their preferred feeding areas in the shallows. They often congregate around mangroves for cover, and baitfish attract these fish to feed. Redfish fishing should be slow and steady during this period. A slight bump to the boat can send redfish schools racing for deeper waters.
Bonefish
If you are passionate about fighting fish, the Florida Keys fishing opportunities for bonefish will be a delight. These fish are fast and tough, and they'll do just about anything to get a piece of your catch. Bonefish can run away from anglers or charge them, so it's important to learn how to properly handle them. Although it's not unusual to fight a bonefish, you should be prepared for a prolonged fight.
Sailfish
Each location has its own fishing season for sailfish. 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. These fishing seasons are also busy for other species of fish in this region. For that reason, deciding on a location is critical.
Grouper
The Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico regulate grouper fishing season in the Florida Keys. The Gulf waters extend nine miles offshore, while the Atlantic state waters extend three nautical miles. The Gulf does not have a set limit on the size of its waters, but all state waters require anglers to use non-stainless hooks. You must also use dehooking tools for Atlantic fishery. North of 28 degrees N, non-offset circles hooks are required.
Permit fishing
Permit fishing in Florida Keys can be done all year. However, there are a few months when it is most productive. It's easy to spot permit and get your hands on them as the first signs are of spring. June is another great time to fish for permit, when the water temperature is comfortable and spawning season has come to a close. Fly fishing is also possible as the weather is more calm.
Blue marlin
Blue Marlin may be rare in Florida Keys, but they are still readily available for catch and release. These fish can be caught and released at a weight of between 150 to 600 pounds. Blue Marlin prefer deeper waters to their usual swimming areas in the Atlantic and Gulf. These fish are also kept in Gulf Shrimp Boats during the spring, summer, and fall months. Blue Marlin fishing is more difficult in winter.
Bonefishing at 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 stealthy, fast-swimming fish are great fun to catch. They can grow up to three feet in length and weigh up to 15 pounds. You can still fish for bonefish in the Keys throughout the year, but peak fishing season is from March through October. These months are when the fish are most active and likely to be breeding in deep waters.
Sailfishing in the Intracoastal Waterway
The Intracoastal Waterway, which runs through the Florida Keys from Fort Myers and Longboat Key, passes through Charlotte Harbor as well as Pine Island Sound. It offers numerous fishing opportunities through its network of backwaters as well as canals. Inlet waters are home to redfish, tuna, grouper, snapper, and bluefish. A variety of local ramps makes it easy to get out onto the water.
FAQ
What is the best place to fish?
Fishing near freshwater bodies is the best option. These areas offer plenty of food and water for fish.
Which time is best to fish?
It's best to fish early in the morning and late at night. These times are when the fish are active and feeding.
How do I know if my lure works?
Look out for movement as you cast your lure into water. If you can see movement in the water, your lure is working correctly.
Are you able to fish without a bobber?
Yes, you do! You use a bobber to prevent the bait from moving when you are fishing. The bobber consists of two parts: the line and the float. Attach the hook to the line at the end and then let go. The lure could sink to the bottom if you don't have a bobber. This makes it harder for fish to take the bait.
Where can you find great fishing guides?
A wide range of services are offered by fishing guides. A fishing guide can offer advice on where to catch the most fish, provide tips on how you catch them, and even teach you how they use different types or equipment.
Statistics
- You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
- 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)
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
- 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
Why would you want to use a spinning rod instead?
Spinning rods are used to cast your lure into water without having to leave the boat. This is a great option if you don’t want to spend too much time returning to the boat after casting. A spinning rod is designed to allow you to make casts from any position while still maintaining control of your line. There are three major components to the rod; handle, butt and reel section. The handle is used to hold the rod, and the shaft. The hook's tip can be attached to the rod's butt section. The reel seat is where the line is attached to the reel. There are many options for rods. Some are specifically designed for certain fishing types, such as casting and trolling. Others are intended to be used for different purposes, such fly fishing or spin fishing, as well as bait fishing.
The type and species of fish that you are trying to catch will dictate the type of rod you use. For example, if you target large predatory species like bass or pike, you would probably want a heavy-duty rod. A lighter-weight rod might work best if you were targeting smaller species like trout or salmon. You could even consider buying multiple rod sizes, depending on how large the fish you are trying to catch.
Spinning rods aren't just for freshwater fishing. They can also be used for saltwater fishing. Saltwater spinningrods are heavier than their freshwater counterparts. They require stronger materials in order to withstand saltwater. Saltwater spinners are more likely to use a longer length rod and have a wider diameter. This allows them to cast further distances. However, keep in mind that there are some downsides to using a spinning rod for saltwater fishing. First, saltwater spinning rods do not come with reels like freshwater ones. You must buy one individually. They are also quite costly. A spinning rod is worth your consideration if you enjoy catching larger fish.
Spin fishing is a type of angling that uses a spinning rod to throw a weighted lure into water. The lure spins around the center point of the weighted lure as it swims through the water. The lure will move in a erratic manner, making it hard for fish to recognize the lure. Fish may mistakenly consider the lure food and begin eating it. This will make the lure more attractive to fish. The line attached to the lure can be reeled in by the fisherman. Once the lure has been retrieved, he can repeat this process until the desired number of fish has been caught.