Fishing in Florida Keys: The Ultimate Guide

Are you heading to the Florida Keys? You're in for a real treat. Here, fishing isn't just an activity; it's the way of life year-round. With the sun almost always shining over the waters full of life, it's the perfect spot for anyone looking to reel in a big one or enjoy some quality time outside with friends. 

This tropical paradise offers any fishing experience you can wish for and is one of the top fishing spots in the United States. And it makes sense since it's a coral cay archipelago that stretches about 120 miles over the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. It's located off the southern coast of Florida, stretching like a string of pearls into the ocean.

But there's much more to the Keys than just fishing. This island chain offers adventure opportunities, from eco-tours that will introduce you to the local wildlife to kayaking and diving that can help you discover the beautiful and unique sea life of the Florida Keys.

As you dive into this guide, you'll get the lowdown on everything you need to make your trip successful. We're talking prime spots, the best times to visit, tips on technique, and a sneak peek at the fish waiting to make your acquaintance. So, let's get started and see what the Florida Keys can offer you.

Fish Species Found in the Florida Keys

In this slice of paradise, the underwater world is teeming with life. It has one of the most diverse wildlife in the world, creating a perfect environment for more than 600 fish species. This impressive variety of species attracts anglers from all around the world. 

Native Species

The Florida Keys, where Atlantic waters meet the Gulf of Mexico, are the angler's paradise with all sorts of fish. Thanks to a mix of coral reefs, mangroves, and sandy beaches, many different fish call this place home. Here are a few you might catch.

Bonefish

Targeting Bonefish in the Florida Keys is an adventure many anglers dream of. Known for their silver scales, remarkable speed, and sneaky behavior in shallow waters, they represent the unique fishing experience that only tropical waters may provide. 

• Best Time to Catch: The peaks are in spring and late summer

• Habitat: Shallow waters around sandy and muddy bottoms

• Preferred Bait: Shrimps, crabs, and artificial flies

• Difficulty: Offers a good challenge due to their speed

• Depth: Usually up to 5 feet

They have sleek bodies and an entirely silver color, allowing them to blend thoroughly into the sandy flats they inhabit. Adult Bonefish typically range in size from 5 to 10 pounds, but they can grow much more extensive, with some reaching up to 19 pounds.

Their length can vary significantly. Most adults measure between 20 and 30 inches, but some individuals may exceed 40 inches. Their size may add to the challenge and make your trip a real adventure.

Tarpon

Hooking a Tarpon in the lush waters of the Florida Keys is an experience that offers both challenge and exhilaration. These magnificent creatures, with their silver scales reflecting the sun, are unique in these waters. 

• Best Time to Catch: Late spring through summer

• Habitat: Coastal waters, often seen around channels and bridges

• Preferred Bait: Mullets or pilchards

• Difficulty: Targeting them requires experience because of their size and power

• Depth: Up to 20 feet

They are famous for their shimmering, massive bodies that can perform spectacular leaps out of the water. Their size impresses most people who see them for the first time. In the Florida Keys, they usually range from about 4 to 8 feet in length and can weigh anywhere from 50 to over 200 pounds.

Permit

Permit is a prevalent species that roams the waters of the Florida Keys. Its challenging catch and impressive size make it highly prized among anglers around Florida's coast. Permits are usually found in shallow waters around muddy or sandy bottoms.

• Best Time to Catch: The optimal time is in spring through early fall

• Habitat: Prefers the ocean bottoms, around wrecks and reefs

• Preferred Bait: Small crabs, fish and shrimp

• Difficulty: Catching a Permit is very challenging and requires patience and skill

• Depth: Up to 30 feet

They have flat, round bodies, long dorsal fins, and a large tail. Juvenile Permits typically measure around 10-20 inches, but they can get significantly more extensive as they grow. Adult Permits can reach a size of over 35 inches and weigh more than 40 pounds.

Grouper

Grouper is a highly prized catch in the waters of Florida. It is known for its large size and swims in the Florida Keys. They are predators of these waters, hiding in deep waters, around wrecks and reefs, blending with the surroundings and waiting to ambush their prey.

The Florida Keys are home to a couple of different species of Grouper, such as the Goliath Grouper, Red Grouper, and Black Grouper. Each species offers a unique fishing experience and has advantages.

• Best Time to Catch: The very best time to catch them is from late spring to early fall

• Habitat: Deep waters, around wrecks and reefs

• Preferred Bait: Smaller fish or squid

• Difficulty: Pulling out Grouper requires a lot of strength and skill due to their size and weight

• Depth: Roaming waters from 20 to 100 feet deep

All kinds of Grouper species are different in their appearances and sizes. They often have heavy and robust bodies, with a big mouth showing their power. The largest one is the Goliath Grouper, which might reach over 10 feet and weigh a couple hundred pounds. 

Mahi Mahi

These beautiful fish are a real trophy game in the Florida Keys, offering an exhilarating pursuit for many anglers. Mahi Mahi, also known as "Dolphin Fish," are famous for their dazzling colors, with their bodies displaying many shades of green, blue, and yellow. Anglers pursue them for their beauty, fishing challenge, and delicious meat. If you visit the Florida Keys, it's a must-try.

• Best Time to Catch: Optimal in late spring to early fall

• Habitat: Mostly offshore, near weed lines

• Preferred Bait: Artificial lures, squid or small fish

• Difficulty: Requires skill and knowledge of open water environment

• Depth: Can be found from the surface to about 100 feet

While they fight when hooked, their speed and acrobatics attract many anglers to target them. They can grow quite large; Mahi Mahi caught in the Florida Keys usually range from 15 to 30 inches long and weigh 15 to 30 pounds. However, larger ones exceeding 50 pounds are not uncommon.

Snapper

Fishing for Snapper species in the Florida Keys is a rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. Famous for their diversity and exciting colors, it seems almost impossible to catch two identical Snappers. Snappers are year-round fish, and in these waters, you can also come across Mutton, Yellowtail, and the most famous Red Snapper.

• Best Time to Catch: Throughout the year

• Habitat: Wrecks, ledges and coral reefs

• Preferred Bait: Squid and live shrimp

• Difficulty: Most usually accessible to all skill levels

• Depth: Found in both shallow waters and deep waters over 100 feet

Their specific appearance can vary due to their diversity; each species is unique in its visual appeal. They also exhibit a wide range of sizes; Yellowtail Snappers are commonly found at sizes around 1 to 3 pounds, while Mutton and Red Snappers can grow significantly more extensive, often reaching 10 to 20 pounds.

Snook

Probably one of the top five most popular game fish in Florida, Snook also challenges and excites inshore anglers in the waters of the Florida Keys. Known for their aggressive nature, they roam around structures, bridges, and mangrove-lined shores like natural predators. 

• Best Time to Catch: Prime in spring to early fall

• Habitat: Inshore waters, around mangroves, bridges, and docks

• Preferred Bait: Live shrimp, mullet and pinfish

• Difficulty: Present a good challenge, better left to experienced anglers

• Depth: Typically found in shallow waters, under 10 feet deep

It's not just their impressive fights that made them so famous; it's also the stunning size they can achieve. Adults usually reach 20 to 30 inches long, while some exceptional individuals can grow over 40 inches and weigh more than 40 pounds.

Migratory species

The Florida Keys are a hub for diverse underwater life, home to numerous resident fish species, and a crucial waypoint for migratory ones. These travelers visit the Keys for many reasons, including spawning or taking advantage of food sources throughout the seasons. This section will explore some popular migratory fish found in the Florida Keys.

Marlin

Fishing Marlin in the deep waters of the Florida Keys is one of the most exciting experiences in the area. Known for their spectacular acrobatics and the magnificent sizes they can reach, Marlin fishing is a real tropical adventure for all deep-sea anglers.

• Best Time to Catch: Peak seasons are late spring to early summer

• Habitat: Open ocean, usually found around weed lines

• Preferred Bait: Artificial lures or live bait

• Difficulty: These are some of the most challenging fish to catch in these waters

• Depth: Mostly found in deeper waters, over 100 feet

Two species of Marlin are visiting the Florida Keys: Blue Marlin and White Marlin. They are famous for their spear-like upper jaw and muscular bodies and can reach spectacular sizes. Their length can exceed 15 feet and weigh more than 1,500 pounds. Which makes them one of the largest fish species you can target.

Cobia

Known for their remarkable size and lateral line, Cobia is a rewarding catch among the anglers of the Florida Keys, even though they're just visitors in these waters. They travel in small schools and pairs, following the warm currents to these welcoming waters.

They're also known for their curiosity, which often leads them into potential trouble since they like to get closer to boats and other human structures. 

• Best Time to Catch: The peaks are in spring to early summer

• Habitat: Both shallower and deeper water, around wrecks and reefs

• Preferred Bait: Squids, crabs, and smaller fish

• Difficulty: Offering quite a challenge due to their size and strength 

• Depth: Typically found between 20 and 70 feet

Their dark bodies quickly identify Cobia with a lateral line from head to tail. They commonly grow to around 3 to 4 feet and weigh 10 to 50 pounds. But they can sometimes reach stunning sizes, exceeding 6 feet long and weighing over 100 pounds.

Wahoo

Wahoo, one of the most popular sport-fishing species, is in many tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. Known for their exceptional speed and size, they are considered one of the fastest species in the ocean, reaching up to 60 mph. In addition to the challenge, these fish are also targeted for their delicious meat. 

• Best Time to Catch: From late spring through the whole summer

• Habitat: They inhabit deep, open waters

• Preferred Bait: Live small fish or trolling with lures

• Difficulty: They can be pretty challenging to catch due to their size and power

• Depth: Mostly found in deep waters. from 40 to 300 feet deep

Wahoos have pretty long and pointy bodies with silver and blue vertical stripes. Their usual size is between 30 and 60 pounds, but some can reach enormous sizes. They can grow up to 10 feet and weigh over 180 pounds. These sizes, speed, and power make these fish exciting challenges for skilled anglers.

Prime Fishing Spots in the Florida Keys

Knowing when and where to fish is just the beginning of a successful fishing trip. In the Florida Keys, finding the right spot can turn a good fishing trip into an unforgettable one.

This archipelago offers an ideal combination of offshore and inshore fishing spots catering to anglers and visitors. Let's explore some of the top fishing destinations in the Florida Keys.

Key Largo

Key Largo fishing can offer you quite a diverse experience. No matter your fishing skills, this place suits all fish enthusiasts. The area is famous for its excellent inshore fishing opportunities and various fish species cruising in these waters, such as Redfish, Tarpon, Snook, Permit, and Mangrove Snapper.

Besides fishing, Key Largo offers a variety of activities for visitors. Because of its proximity to the coral reef, it's one of the prime spots for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Marathon

This island paradise is settled in the heart of the Florida Keys, attracting nature lovers and anglers. Marathon's diverse nature makes it a perfect fishing spot, from deep offshore waters to shallow flats and mangrove hideouts.

Islamorada

If you want a world-class fishing experience, Islamorada is your dream spot. With its strategic location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico and unrivaled fishing opportunities, it's no wonder it's often called the Sport Fishing Capital of the World.

Besides fishing, this place is enriched with beautiful nature and one of the world's most diverse marine life. Exploring the area in many different ways is enabled by the many activities this spot can offer. You can visit the Theater of the Sea and interact with marine life, go snorkeling around the coral reefs, or go for kayak fishing.

Big Pine Key

Fishing in Big Pine Key offers something different than fishing in other, busier Keys. This place is way quieter and more nature-oriented. The waters around are spotless and are teeming with a wide range of different fish species. As Big Pine Key is full of flats, it's also famous for flat and fly fishing.

Beyond fishing, this beautiful area offers many exciting activities, such as exploring the underwater world with diving groups, eco-tours, or kayaking. If you love nature and are visiting the Florida Keys, this is one of the spots you shouldn't miss.

Fishing Techniques in the Florida Keys

The dynamic marine life in the waters of the Florida Keys is so diverse that the number of fishing methods and techniques is constantly growing. Mixing traditional methods with innovative approaches has changed the traditional fishing culture.

It's not always about maximizing the catch; often, it's all about adventure. The following will mention some interesting techniques used around the Florida Keys.

Spearfishing

Spearfishing in the Florida Keys is a famous activity. It's like being connected with the underwater world in a more adventurous way. Imagine diving into clear, warm waters, holding a spear, and choosing your dinner. Sounds fun, doesn't it? Well, it is one of the most entertaining ways to explore the coral reefs of the Florida Keys.

First, you need basic diving skills and a specialized spearfishing gun or a spear pole. Then, you must be patient since the fish won't just come and bite by itself. You need to observe not to miss a good hiding spot, which makes the whole process even more enjoyable. Spearfishing in this area is not just a regular activity. It's an integral part of the local culture that they're trying to preserve.

Flats Fishing

Fishing in the flats of the Florida Keys is an exciting way to use the shallow waters and catch the fish that inhabit them. It's a technique specialized for shallow, clear waters in this region. You'll need a flat-bottomed boat, a skiff, or even a surfboard for this technique.

Standing and patiently looking is the key to this technique because you must spot the fish before they spot you. When you can, gently throw your pole so it doesn't spook the prey. As with most other techniques, understanding the fish you are after and their habits is the most important.

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is an advantageous technique for visiting the Florida Keys since it's trendy among the local anglers and is considered one of the world's prime destinations for saltwater fly fishing. It involves using a lightweight lure called a fly, using a particular rod and line. The point is to mimic the natural movement of the prey to attract and deceive the fish.

Selecting the correct fly depends on the fish species you are targeting. Choosing the right spot might be crucial, and shallow flats are the best because shallow waters allow you to spot your target before casting. Fly fishing is not just about the catch. Trying your skills and connecting with nature makes this method so unique.

Charter Fishing

This might not be a fishing technique, but it can change your perspective on fishing. Since the Florida Keys is like a string of pearls, with its beautiful islands stretching along the water, it is much simpler and easier to navigate with the boat. That is why charter fishing is one of the most convenient ways of fishing along this archipelago. 

The Florida Keys offers many options, so choose a charter that best suits your interests. The skill level and the type of fishing experience you prefer are essential when selecting your perfect charter.

Party Boat

If it comes to that time of the year when all your friends are suddenly busy, or the prices for charters sound a bit much for your pocket, this alternative might be the right choice.

Party boats are trendy in the Florida Keys since fishing and nature exploration are two main activities for visitors and locals. Meeting new, interesting people, visiting the most beautiful parts of the archipelago, and fishing in them are just a few reasons to book your party boat and head on an adventure.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in the Florida Keys

Before casting your line into the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys, it's essential to inform yourself about the local fishing rules and the necessary permits. The regulations in the Keys, as in other parts of Florida, are governed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). These rules are in place to ensure sustainable fishing practices and protect diverse marine life, attracting many anglers from around the world.

Regulations

The marine ecosystem in the region is very complex, and it is important to protect it in all possible ways. That's why it's vital to understand the regulations, which include fishing rules and regulations for different species, size and bag limits, and all according to specific fishing seasons.

• Species-Specific Rules: Given the Key's diverse ecosystem, regulations are in place for different species, focusing on size, bag limits, and specific fishing seasons. This ensures sustainable fishing practices.

• Protected Areas: The Florida Keys has many protected areas, such as the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. These zones have strict rules to conserve rich marine life, limiting activities like fishing in certain areas or practices.

• Catch and Release: Catch-and-release practices are strongly recommended, especially for species that are overfished or in recovery, to preserve species and support the growth of fish communities for future anglers.

By complying with these regulations, you contribute very concretely to preserving and sustaining this specific marine environment. At the same time, your fishing experience remains enjoyable and becomes even more fun.

License Requirements

Whether you're a Florida resident or a regular visitor, the law says you must have licenses matching your fishing activities. This way, you will protect yourself from fines, your catch, and legal prosecution in extreme cases. Read below for information on how and where to get licenses and additional details.

• Who Needs a License: As with the rest of Florida, Florida residents between 16 and 65 must have a legitimate fishing license for inshore and offshore angling activities in the Florida Keys.

• Types of Licenses: The required license type can differ depending on the fishing spot and whether you are a resident or a visitor. Specific permits are also necessary for those aiming to catch regulated species, but they can be easily bought online.

• Where to Purchase: Licenses and permits can be easily bought through the FWC's mobile app or official website. They are also available at various retail outlets and fishing supply stores across the state.

Keeping yourself updated on the latest fishing regulations is very important because rules change constantly. It is highly recommended that you check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) website before planning your fishing adventures in the Keys to see if you are good to go. 

Final Thoughts

Regardless of your fishing skill or fishing preferences, the Florida Keys have something to offer everyone. Visiting this tropical fishing paradise can provide much more than a perfect fishing experience.

So, being prepared about the best spots, activities, prime fishing peaks, or what to target can enhance your overall experience. Do you have any questions or need more tips? Ask in the comments below, and we will ensure you have a perfect fishing adventure.