When to Fish Florida Keys: Best Seasons for Tarpon & Snapper
The Florida Keys, a 125-mile archipelago stretching into the Gulf of Mexico, offer some of the most diverse saltwater fishing in the world. From the iconic tarpon migrations to year-round snapper hauls, anglers flock here to test their skills against over 600 fish species. But timing is everything. This guide breaks down the best fishing seasons, prime locations, and expert tactics to maximize your success. We’ll explore how water temperatures, tides, and local regulations shape opportunities—whether you’re wading the flats of Islamorada or deep-sea fishing off Key West.
Winter Fishing in the Florida Keys (December–February)
Winter transforms the Florida Keys into a snapper and grouper paradise. As temperatures dip to 65–75°F, these species congregate around reefs and wrecks to feed. The Seven Mile Bridge near Marathon becomes a hotspot for yellowtail snapper, while blackfin tuna chase baitfish in the Atlantic’s deeper channels.
Key Tips for Winter:
- Use light tackle with squid or shrimp near coral patches.
- Focus on midday when sunlight warms shallow waters.
- Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations for snapper bag limits (currently 10 per person).
Gear Checklist:
- 15–20 lb braided line.
- Circle hooks (size 2–4) to protect reef fish.
- A 3-day saltwater fishing license for short-term visitors.
Pro Tip: Pair a winter fishing trip with a visit to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, a rehabilitation center for endangered sea turtles.
Spring Fishing in the Florida Keys (March–May)
Spring signals the start of tarpon season, drawing anglers worldwide. These “silver kings” migrate through the Keys’ backcountry channels and bridges, with peak activity in April and May. The average tarpon weighs 60–100 lbs, requiring heavy-duty gear.
Prime Locations:
- Islamorada: Known as the “Sportfishing Capital,” its flats teem with permit and bonefish.
- Bahia Honda Bridge: A tarpon hotspot during incoming tides.
Tactics for Success:
- Use live crabs or mullet on 50–80 lb tackle.
- Fish early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.
- Review FWC’s tarpon guidelines, which require a $51.50 tarpon tag for harvest.
Local Insight: Spring also kicks off spiny lobster mini-season (July). While not in spring, plan ahead—licenses sell out fast.
Summer Fishing in the Florida Keys (June–August)
Summer’s 85–90°F waters ignite offshore action for mahi-mahi, sailfish, and wahoo. The Gulf Stream’s warm currents push baitfish closer to shore, creating feeding frenzies.
Top Summer Catches:
- Mahi-Mahi: Look for floating debris 3–10 miles offshore.
- Sailfish: Trolling with live ballyhoo near Marathon’s Hump is effective.
Safety Note: Hurricane season (June–November) demands vigilance. Monitor NOAA’s weather alerts and secure a flexible charter.
Gear for Offshore:
- 30–50 lb class rods.
- Skirted lures in blue/white patterns.
- A non-resident saltwater license for out-of-state anglers.
Did You Know? Summer is ideal for night fishing. Snook and tarpon hunt under bridges illuminated by dock lights.
Fall Fishing in the Florida Keys (September–November)
Fall brings cooler temperatures (75–85°F) and renewed energy to the Florida Keys’ waters. As summer storms subside, kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and blacktip sharks dominate nearshore reefs. Offshore, wahoo and sailfish remain active, while tarpon reappear in backcountry flats.
Top Fall Targets:
- Kingfish: Fast-moving schools patrol the Atlantic side of Marathon and Big Pine Key.
- Permit: These flat-tailed fighters return to the flats of Key West Harbor in October.
Tactics for Fall:
- Troll with diving plugs or live pilchards near channel markers.
- Sight-fish for permit using crab-pattern flies on 8–10 wt rods.
- Monitor FWC’s fall snapper closures, as some species have seasonal limits.
Safety Reminder: While hurricane risks decline after October, always check NOAA’s 7-day forecast before boating.
Gear Essentials:
- 20–30 lb spinning rods for mackerel.
- Wire leaders to prevent bite-offs.
- A 5-year saltwater license for frequent visitors.
Local Event: The Marathon International Tarpon Tournament in November attracts anglers competing for $50,000 in prizes.
Fishing License Requirements for the Florida Keys
All anglers aged 16+ must carry a valid Florida saltwater fishing license, unless exempt. Licenses cover both Gulf and Atlantic waters but check zones—some areas like Everglades National Park require additional permits.
Key License Types:
| License Type | Cost (Non-Resident) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Day | $17.00 | 3 days |
| Annual | $47.00 | 1 year |
| 5-Year | $193.00 | 5 years |
Exemptions:
- Fishing from a licensed pier or charter.
- Florida residents over 65 or under 16.
Pro Tip: Purchase licenses online via the FWC’s Go Outdoors Florida portal to avoid marina markups.
Conservation and Ethical Fishing Practices
The Florida Keys’ ecosystem thrives when anglers follow catch-and-release best practices:
- Use Circle Hooks: Mandatory for reef fish like snapper and grouper to reduce gut-hooking.
- Vent Deep-Caught Fish: Use a descending device to relieve barotrauma in species caught deeper than 50 feet.
- Respect Slot Limits: For example, redfish must be 18–27 inches to keep; only one per person.
Invasive Species Alert: Report lionfish sightings to FWC’s Lionfish Hotline. Join derbies to help control populations.
Ethical Highlight: The Dolphin SMART program certifies charters that protect dolphins by maintaining 50-yard distances.
Conclusion
Timing your Florida Keys fishing trip by season unlocks unparalleled opportunities—whether battling tarpon in spring or trolling for mahi-mahi in summer. Pair this guide with a valid fishing license and eco-conscious practices to ensure the Keys remain a angling paradise for generations. For more regional guides, explore our articles on Texas saltwater hotspots or Louisiana’s lifetime licenses.
Final Tip: Book a local guide through the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association for hidden gems like the “Horseground” wreck off Key West.
