Key West Fishing Report

One of the better dolphin brought in during the annual Drambuie Key West deep sea fishing tournament.

April 1, 200

Flats: Spring is here, and with it, the annual Tarpon migration. Large schools of very large fish are abundant. Plus, water temperatures are ideal for bonefish. If you can manage to also catch-and-release a Permit, you'll have achieved the ultimate in shallow water fishing - a Grand Slam (catching a Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit in the same day). Key West flats fishing guides are being rewarded with beautiful weather and prime fishing conditions.
The water temperatures are currently around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. No matter what, make sure you bring a good pair of polarized fishing sun glasses.

Bottom Fishing: The yellowtail snapper fishing has been very good. Ideal water temperatures and mostly calm conditions have made productive fishing trips with plenty of action. Mutton snapper and black grouper are also hooking up in good numbers. Might want to head out on a Key West party boat fishing trip. As always, wear a good pair of fishing shoes.

Key West Deep Sea Fishing: Offshore, the Key West deep sea fishing charters are reporting Dolphin (the fish = mahi mahi = dorado) are starting to show up offshore as weed lines form up. The largest of the Dolphin are currently being seen at a depth of 2000 feet, approximately 20 miles offshore. Closer in, along the color change (approximately 6+ miles offshore), Sailfish and Bonita are being caught and released, providing plenty of thrills for deep sea fishing. Dolphin fish should begin to show up nearer to the color change as the summer Dolphin season gets into gear.

Kayak Fishing: Anglers heading out on kayaks have been running into a few bonefish and plenty of snapper. The super-elusive permit have made a rare appearance as well. Medium to large sized barracuda are mostly staying off the warm flats, preferring the cooler deeper water. They have been willing to chase cuda tubes and plugs quickly retrieved.