To make the most out of your Florida Keys fishing trip, you should be familiar with the seasons. Fishing during these seasons will help you to catch the fish of your dreams, including Redfish, Bonefish, Sailfish, Grouper, and other species. Below are tips about the best times to visit 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
Redfish fishing seasons in Florida Keys depend on the water temperature. Redfish prefer to eat in the shallows in winter when the water temperature is higher. They will often seek shelter in mangroves, which is why baitfish are so attractive to them. During this time, fishing for redfish should be slow and sure. A slight bump to the boat can send redfish schools racing for deeper waters.
Bonefish
If you love fighting fish, then the Florida Keys fishing conditions for bonefish are perfect for you. These fish are strong and agile and will do almost any thing to capture your catch. Bonefish are notorious for running away and charging at anglers, so make sure to know how to deal with them. Although a fight with a bonefish is not difficult, you should be ready for a lengthy fight.
Sailfish
The Florida Keys fishing seasons for sailfish vary by location. Spring is their most active time of year, as the east winds push the deeper waters up against the clear surface. Sailfish are excellent sight fishers because they stick their tails out of the water while swimming against the current. These fishing seasons also make it the busiest time for other species in the area. 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. Dehooking tools are required in the Atlantic fishery. You will also need non-offset circle hooks north of 28° N.
Permit fishing
While the best time to fish for permit in Florida Keys is all year, there are some months that are more productive than others. 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 due to the calmer weather.
Blue marlin
Blue Marlin are very rare in Florida Keys. They are still possible to catch and release. These fish weigh in the neighborhood of 150-600 pounds. They are typically released. Blue Marlin swim in the Atlantic or Gulf waters but prefer to eat in deeper water. These fish are also kept in Gulf Shrimp Boats during the spring, summer, and fall months. Blue Marlin fishing can be difficult during the winter months.
Bonefishing in Intracoastal Waterway
The Florida Keys is the perfect place to find great bonefishing. The "grey ghost" of the flats, bonefish is one of the most popular gamefishes in Florida. These quick-swimming, stealthy and fast-moving fish are an absolute thrill to catch. They can grow to up to three feet long and weigh up fifteen pounds. The peak season for bonefish fishing in the Keys is March through October. These months are quiet for bonefish fishing as they tend to be hiding in deep water and not actively looking for food.
Sailfishing in the Intracoastal Waterway
The Intracoastal Waterway connects the Florida Keys with Longboat Key. This route runs from Fort Myers through Charlotte Harbor, and Pine Island Sound. It's a network that includes backwaters and canals that provides many fishing opportunities. 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
Where can I find quality fishing guides?
There are many services that fishing guides can offer. They can advise you on the best areas to fish, give tips on catching particular types of fish, and even teach how to use different types fishing equipment.
Do I need special licenses to fish?
No, unless you are going to fish in another state or county. Many states allow anglers the freedom to fish without the need of a license. Check with your local Fish & Wildlife agency to see what is required.
Can I fish during the day?
Fishing is allowed at all times of the day. The only time you cannot fish is during times when there is a ban on fishing.
Statistics
- About 40 percent of all fish are freshwater species. (takemefishing.org)
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
How To
Why should you use a spinning rod?
Spinning rods are used to cast your lure into water without having to leave the boat. If you don’t want take too much time returning to your boat after each cast, this is the best choice. The spinning rod allows you to cast from any angle and still have control over your line. The main components of the rod are the handle, reel seat, and butt section. The handle is used to hold the rod, and the shaft. The butt section is where you attach the rod's tip to the hook. Finally, the reel's seat holds the line and the reel. There are many options for rods. Some rods are made for fishing specific techniques, like trolling or casting. Others are intended to be used for different purposes, such fly fishing or spin fishing, as well as bait fishing.
The type you catch will affect the type rod you choose. You would need a heavy-duty rod if your goal is to catch large predatory fish like pike and bass. For smaller species such as salmon or trout, a lighter rod might be better. You could even purchase multiple rod sizes depending upon how big you plan to catch the fish.
Spinning rods aren't just for freshwater fishing. They are commonly used for saltwater fishing too. Saltwater spinning rods are generally heavier than their freshwater counterparts because they require stronger materials to withstand the rigors of saltwater. Saltwater spinners tend to have a longer rod, but a larger diameter. They are able to cast farther distances thanks to this rod. However, keep in mind that there are some downsides to using a spinning rod for saltwater fishing. First, saltwater spinningrods don't come with reels. You must buy one individually. You will also find them quite expensive. If you are interested in catching larger fish, a spinning rod might be worth looking at.
A spin fishing method is when a fisherman uses his spinning rod to cast a weighted lure in the water. When the lure moves through the water it turns around its weighted center point. This causes the lure's motion to be unpredictable in the water and makes it difficult for fishes to see. Fish may mistakenly consider the lure food and begin eating it. It will then attract more fish to the lure. The lure will then attract more fish to the angler's reel. After the lure has been recovered, the fisherman will be able to reel in the line until he captures the desired amount of fish.