Episodes

  • Fishing the Florida Keys in February 2025: Snappers, Pompano, and Tarpon on the Move

    Fishing the Florida Keys in February 2025: Snappers, Pompano, and Tarpon on the Move
    Feb 12 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene in and around the Florida Keys and Miami for today, February 12th, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather and tides. Today, we're looking at partly cloudy skies with a high of around 75 degrees and a gentle breeze out of the northeast. Sunrise was at 7:01 AM, and sunset will be at 6:18 PM. Tides are crucial, and for Content Keys, we have a high tide at 1:06 PM with a height of 2.05 feet, followed by a low tide at 7:03 PM with a height of -0.05 feet[2].

    Now, onto the good stuff – the fish. February is a great time to be fishing in the Florida Keys, with a variety of species active in the waters. Recently, anglers have been catching Yellowtail Snapper and Mangrove Snappers in abundance. Mutton Snappers, Amberjacks, and even African Pompano have been making appearances as well[1][4].

    For those venturing into the reef and wrecks, the conditions are ideal. The reef is particularly active this time of year, and the wrecks are offering great opportunities for deeper fishing. If you're looking to target Tarpon, keep an eye out as the first hints of their migration are starting to show, especially in the warmer days of February[4].

    When it comes to lures, I always recommend using what the fish are accustomed to seeing. For Snappers, the D.O.A. Shrimp and C.A.L. Shad Tail are top choices. The 3” C.A.L. Shad Tail, rigged with a ¼ oz short shank jig head, is excellent for searching out fish in various depths and currents. For a more subtle approach, the D.O.A. Shrimp, especially the 3” and 4” versions, are highly effective when fished with a straight knot to mimic the natural movement of shrimp[3].

    If you prefer live bait, shrimp and pilchards are always winners in these waters. However, with the right artificial lures, you can avoid the hassle of bait and still land some impressive catches.

    For hot spots, I recommend checking out the reefs around Key West. The Backcountry and shallow Gulf wrecks are also producing well, especially after the cool fronts that have been sweeping through. Another spot worth mentioning is the Content Keys area, where the tidal changes can bring in a variety of fish species[1][4].

    In summary, today is shaping up to be a great day for fishing in the Florida Keys. With the right lures and a bit of local knowledge, you're set for a successful day on the water. So grab your gear, head out, and enjoy the beautiful Florida Keys fishing experience. Tight lines
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Report Florida Keys & Miami: Sailfish, Kingfish, Cobia, Amberjack Bite Red Hot

    Fishing Report Florida Keys & Miami: Sailfish, Kingfish, Cobia, Amberjack Bite Red Hot
    Feb 10 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers, it's your buddy Artificial Lure here, and I'm excited to share today's fishing report for the Florida Keys and Miami area.

    First off, let's talk about the conditions. Today, February 10th, 2025, we're looking at a beautiful day with calm winds, perfect for getting out on the water. Sunrise is at 6:58 AM, and sunset will be at 6:10 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to catch some serious action.

    Now, let's dive into the tides. For the Content Keys and Content Passage, today's tides are as follows: low tide at 4:31 AM with a height of -0.25 meters, high tide at 10:52 AM with 0.35 meters, another low tide at 3:17 PM with 0.16 meters, and finally, high tide at 9:25 PM with 0.98 meters. These tides should provide some great opportunities for both shallow and deeper water fishing.

    The fishing in the Florida Keys is heating up, and February is proving to be an excellent month for various species. Offshore, the Sailfish bite is on fire as we approach their spawn time. You can also expect big "Smoker" Kingfish, Cero and Spanish Mackerel, and some thrilling Black Fin Tuna action. Wahoo and Mahi are also making appearances, though they can be a bit more sporadic. For those targeting apex predators, large Barracuda are active, and if you're up for a challenge, the Monster Shark charters are producing multiple larger sharks even on half-day trips.

    In the reef and wreck areas, Amberjack fishing remains strong, and Cobia action is excellent. Snapper, including Mutton Snapper, are plentiful, although Yellowtail and Mangrove Snapper numbers are slowing down slightly for February. Grouper fishing is closed until May in Monroe County, but other species are making up for it. The "reef donkey" Amberjack and the elusive Permit, though less active in February, are still worth a shot for the experienced angler.

    Near shore, the patch reefs are a great spot, offering a mix of backcountry and reef fishing in calmer waters. Here, you can target a variety of species without the need for deep-sea gear. Backcountry fishing is also on fire, with fast-paced action from schooling species like Jacks, Sea Trout, Pompano, and more. Redfish and Cobia are providing excellent action, and while Snook are less active due to cooler water temps, there are days when they come alive.

    For lures and bait, live bait such as pilchards and shrimp are always a hit, especially for species like Snapper and Cobia. For Kingfish and Mackerel, spoons and jigs work well. If you're after Sailfish, use a combination of ballyhoo and skirted lures. In the backcountry, soft plastics and jigs are great for Redfish and Sea Trout.

    If you're looking for some hot spots, I highly recommend the Long Key Bridge and Toms Harbor Bridges. These spots are known for their diverse range of fish, including yellow jacks, permit, cobia, snook, tarpon, and even sharks. The fishing pier walkway at Long Key Bridge makes it an excellent location for both beginners and seasoned anglers.

    Another great spot is the patch reefs about 6 to 8 miles offshore from Miami. These natural formations offer a variety of fish species and are protected from rough seas, making them ideal for those who prefer calmer waters.

    So, grab your gear and get ready for an exciting day on the water. The Florida Keys and Miami area are offering some of the best fishing experiences right now, and with the right lures and knowledge, you're bound to catch some memorable fish. Tight lines, everyone
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    4 mins
  • Angling Adventures in the Florida Keys: From Offshore Sailfish to Inshore Backwater Bounty

    Angling Adventures in the Florida Keys: From Offshore Sailfish to Inshore Backwater Bounty
    Feb 9 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm excited to share today's fishing report for the Florida Keys and Miami area.

    First off, let's talk about the conditions. Today, February 9th, 2025, we're looking at a pretty favorable setup. The sunrise is at 6:59 AM, and sunset will be at 6:10 PM, giving us a full day to get out on the water. For Miami Beach, the tide times are as follows: high tide at 5:53 AM, low tide at 12:01 PM, and another high tide at 5:57 PM. These tides should provide some excellent windows for fishing.

    The weather has been calming down after those recent cold fronts, which is great news for us. The winds have died down, making it a perfect time to hit both the offshore and inshore waters. With the Gulfstream's influence, our waters are teeming with life, and the fish are biting.

    If you're heading offshore, you're in for a treat. The Sailfish bite is on fire as we approach their spawn time, and February is one of the best months to catch these magnificent sport fish. Kingfish, particularly the big "Smoker" Kingfish, are providing excellent action both well offshore and occasionally nearer the reef. The Mackerel family, including Cero and Spanish Mackerel, are abundant, and Black Fin Tuna are showing up in schools, creating that chaotic and exhilarating experience we all love. Wahoo and Mahi are also on the radar, though Mahi can be a bit sporadic this time of year.

    For offshore fishing, I recommend using lures like spoons, jigs, and live bait such as ballyhoo or pilchards. If you're targeting Sailfish, go with a well-presented live bait or a sailfish-specific lure.

    Closer to shore, the reef and wreck sites are producing some great catches. Amberjack fishing remains strong for February, and Cobia action is excellent. Snapper, including Mutton, Yellowtail, and Mangrove, are still active, though their numbers might slow down briefly before picking up again in March. Grouper, however, are off-limits until May due to the closed season in Monroe County.

    For reef fishing, use jigs, live bait, or cut bait. Cobia love live bait like shrimp or pinfish, while Snapper are often caught with jigs or cut bait like squid.

    If you prefer calmer waters, the near shore "Patch Reefs" are a great option. These natural formations about 6 to 8 miles offshore offer a variety of fish species and are protected from rough seas. In the back country, February is an excellent time for fast-paced action with species like Redfish, Cobia, Sea Trout, Pompano, and Jacks. Snook are a bit sluggish due to cooler water temps, but on milder days, they can become active.

    In the back country, use light tackle with lures like jigs, spoons, or live bait like shrimp or small fish. For predator fishing, which is hot this time of year, go with larger lures or bait that can attract Barracuda and Sharks.

    Some hot spots to consider include the "Patch Reefs" for those who want to stay in calmer waters but still catch a variety of species. The Marquesas are known for their predator-rich waters, making it the place to go for Barracuda and Sharks. Key West Back Country is perfect for a fun and productive trip with plenty of schooling species and larger predators.

    In summary, today is shaping up to be an excellent day for fishing in the Florida Keys and Miami area. With stable water temperatures, calm winds, and a plethora of fish species active, you can't go wrong. Just remember to check the tide times and adjust your fishing strategy accordingly.

    Happy fishing, and let's make some memories on the water
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    4 mins
  • February Fishing Report for the Florida Keys and Miami

    February Fishing Report for the Florida Keys and Miami
    Feb 8 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm excited to share today's fishing report for the Florida Keys and Miami area.

    First off, let's talk about the conditions. Today, February 8th, 2025, we're looking at a pretty favorable setup. The sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:16 PM, giving us a full day to get out on the water. The tide times for Content Keys, Content Passage are: low tide at 4:31 AM, high tide at 10:52 AM, another low tide at 3:17 PM, and a final high tide at 9:25 PM. These tides should provide some excellent windows for fishing.

    The weather has been calming down after those recent cold fronts, which is great news for us. The winds have died down, making it a perfect time to hit both the offshore and inshore waters. With the Gulfstream's influence, our waters are teeming with life, and the fish are biting.

    ### Offshore Fishing
    If you're heading offshore, you're in for a treat. The Sailfish bite is on fire as we approach their spawn time, and February is one of the best months to catch these magnificent sport fish. Kingfish, particularly the big "Smoker" Kingfish, are providing excellent action both well offshore and occasionally nearer the reef. The Mackerel family, including Cero and Spanish Mackerel, are abundant, and Black Fin Tuna are showing up in schools, creating that chaotic and exhilarating experience we all love. Wahoo and Mahi are also on the radar, though Mahi can be a bit sporadic this time of year.

    For offshore fishing, I recommend using lures like spoons, jigs, and live bait such as ballyhoo or pilchards. If you're targeting Sailfish, go with a well-presented live bait or a sailfish-specific lure.

    ### Reef & Wreck Fishing
    Closer to shore, the reef and wreck sites are producing some great catches. Amberjack fishing remains strong for February, and Cobia action is excellent. Snapper, including Mutton, Yellowtail, and Mangrove, are still active, though their numbers might slow down briefly before picking up again in March. Grouper, however, are off-limits until May due to the closed season in Monroe County.

    For reef fishing, use jigs, live bait, or cut bait. Cobia love live bait like shrimp or pinfish, while Snapper are often caught with jigs or cut bait like squid.

    ### Near Shore and Back Country
    If you prefer calmer waters, the near shore "Patch Reefs" are a great option. These natural formations about 6 to 8 miles offshore offer a variety of fish species and are protected from rough seas. In the back country, February is an excellent time for fast-paced action with species like Redfish, Cobia, Sea Trout, Pompano, and Jacks. Snook are a bit sluggish due to cooler water temps, but on milder days, they can become active.

    In the back country, use light tackle with lures like jigs, spoons, or live bait like shrimp or small fish. For predator fishing, which is hot this time of year, go with larger lures or bait that can attract Barracuda and Sharks.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Patch Reefs**: These are great for those who want to stay in calmer waters but still catch a variety of species.
    - **Marquesas**: Known for its predator-rich waters, this is the place to go for Barracuda and Sharks.
    - **Key West Back Country**: Perfect for a fun and productive trip with plenty of schooling species and larger predators.

    In summary, today is shaping up to be an excellent day for fishing in the Florida Keys and Miami area. With stable water temperatures, calm winds, and a plethora of fish species active, you can't go wrong. Just remember to check the tide times and adjust your fishing strategy accordingly.

    Happy fishing, and let's make some memories on the water
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    4 mins
  • Fishing Report Florida Keys and Miami: Sailfish, Kingfish, Cobia, and More - February 2025

    Fishing Report Florida Keys and Miami: Sailfish, Kingfish, Cobia, and More - February 2025
    Feb 7 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure here, and I'm excited to share today's fishing report for the Florida Keys and Miami area.

    First off, let's talk about the conditions. Today, February 7th, 2025, we're looking at a pretty pleasant day. The sunrise was at 7:04 AM, and the sunset will be at 6:15 PM, giving us a good amount of daylight to get out on the water. The tide times for Content Keys, Content Passage, are as follows: low tide at 3:19 AM with -0.74 ft, high tide at 9:51 AM with 1.05 ft, low tide at 2:01 PM with 0.6 ft, and high tide at 8:08 PM with 3.11 ft.

    The weather has been calming down a bit after those last cold fronts, which is great news for us fishermen. The winds have died down, making it an ideal time to hit both the offshore and inshore waters.

    ### Offshore Fishing
    Offshore fishing is really heating up this time of year. The Sailfish bite is on daily as we approach their spawn time, and February marks the beginning of one of our most productive periods offshore. Kingfish, particularly the big "Smoker" Kingfish, are providing excellent action both well offshore and occasionally nearer the reef. The Mackerel family, including Cero and Spanish Mackerel, are abundant, and Black Fin Tuna are also active, offering some thrilling catches. Wahoo and Mahi are still around, though the Mahi action can be a bit sporadic but always a welcome bonus.

    For offshore fishing, I recommend using lures like spoons, jigs, and live bait such as ballyhoo or pilchards. These will attract the larger pelagic species like Sailfish, Kingfish, and Tuna.

    ### Reef & Wreck Fishing
    The reef and wreck areas are also producing well. With the winds down, these spots are more comfortable, especially for those concerned about rough seas. Amberjack and Cobia are active, and the Snapper family, including Mutton Snapper, is still going strong. However, keep in mind that the Grouper season is closed until May in Monroe County, so we'll have to wait a bit longer for those.

    For reef and wreck fishing, use jigs, live bait, or cut bait to attract the likes of Amberjack, Cobia, and Snappers.

    ### Near Shore & Back Country
    Near shore and back country fishing are excellent right now. The patch reefs, located about halfway to the coral reef, offer a mix of backcountry and reef fishing in calmer waters. Here, you can target a variety of species using non-technical techniques suitable for both novice and experienced anglers.

    In the back country, the Redfish action is as good as it gets in Key West. Cobia fishing is also producing quality fish, and while Snook are not super active due to cooler water temps, there are days when mild air temperatures and calmer winds bring them to life. Schooling species like Jacks, Sea Trout, Pompano, and more are providing non-stop action. Predator fishing for Giant Barracuda and several species of Sharks is also on the rise, especially in the Marquesas.

    For back country fishing, use soft plastics, jigs, and live bait like shrimp or mullet to catch Redfish, Cobia, and Snook.

    ### Hot Spots
    If you're looking for some hot spots, I highly recommend the patch reefs for a comfortable and diverse fishing experience. For those who prefer the back country, the Marquesas and the waters around Key West are teeming with life.

    In summary, February is shaping up to be an excellent month for fishing in the Florida Keys and Miami area. With stable water temperatures, calmer winds, and a wide variety of active fish species, there's no better time to get out on the water. So grab your gear, choose the right lures and bait, and let's go fishing!

    Call Key West Pro Guides today to book your charter and make the most of this fantastic fishing season. Happy fishing
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    4 mins
  • "Fishing the Florida Keys and Miami: Tarpon, Bonefish, and Barracuda Action in High Tide Conditions"

    "Fishing the Florida Keys and Miami: Tarpon, Bonefish, and Barracuda Action in High Tide Conditions"
    Feb 5 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene in and around the Florida Keys and Miami for today, February 5, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the tides. For Miami, today's tidal coefficient is quite high, sitting at 95, which means we're looking at big tides and strong currents[2]. In Key West, the tide times are as follows: high tide at 2:13 AM and 1:59 PM, with low tides at 7:18 AM and 6:34 PM[4].

    The weather is a bit chilly for our taste, but it's not all bad news. This cooler weather has pushed more fish into our area, especially tarpon, bonefish, and permit. In Miami, the shrimp runs have started, and this has brought tarpon to the beaches, inlets, and inside Biscayne Bay. Recent trips have been quite successful, with anglers catching tarpon in the 100-pound class using artificial lures[1].

    For those heading to the Florida Keys, the sailfish tournaments are gearing up, but if you're after something a bit more laid-back, the shallow-water flats are your best bet. The Keys are known for their barracuda, snook, and redfish, and with the current tidal conditions, these fish are likely to be active.

    Sunrise today is at 7:01 AM, and sunset is at 6:07 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to get out there and catch some fish. The moonrise is at 10:04 AM, and moonset is at 10:45 PM, which can also influence fish activity.

    If you're targeting tarpon, bonefish, or permit, your best bet is to use live bait like shrimp or crabs. For those who prefer artificial lures, spoons and jigs can be very effective, especially in the strong currents we're seeing today. For barracuda, a well-placed fly or a shiny spinnerbait can do the trick.

    Hot spots to consider include the beaches and inlets around Miami, particularly inside Biscayne Bay. In the Florida Keys, the shallow-water flats around Key West and Islamorada are always productive. For barracuda, the waters around Sugarloaf Key and Tavernier Creek Marina are known for their abundance.

    In summary, today's fishing conditions are prime, thanks to the high tidal coefficients and the cooler weather. Get out early, use the right bait or lures, and you'll be hauling in some impressive catches. Tight lines, everyone
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys and Miami in January 2025: Offshore Bounty and Backcountry Blitz

    Fishing the Florida Keys and Miami in January 2025: Offshore Bounty and Backcountry Blitz
    Jan 31 2025
    Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene in and around the Florida Keys and Miami for January 31st, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather and tidal conditions. Today, January 31st, you can expect a beautiful day with sunrise at 7:04 AM and sunset at 6:03 PM. The tidal report for Miami Beach, which is a good indicator for the broader region, shows a low tide at 3:09 AM and another at 3:34 PM, with high tides at 9:24 AM and 9:43 PM. These tidal shifts can significantly impact fish activity, especially in the backcountry and nearshore areas.

    Now, let's dive into the fish activity. January is a fantastic time for offshore angling in the Florida Keys. The big "Smoker" Kingfish are providing excellent action both well offshore and occasionally nearer the reef. Sailfish are biting daily as we approach their spawn time, making this a prime period for targeting these magnificent sport fish. You'll also find plenty of Mackerel, including quality Cero and Spanish Mackerel, and Black Fin Tuna, which can create quite the chaotic and exciting fishing experience when they school up.

    For those preferring reef and wreck fishing, January brings comfortable conditions despite the occasional winds. Amberjack and Cobia are active, and the Snapper family, including Mutton, Yellowtail, and Mangrove Snappers, are still producing well, although the Yellowtail and Mangrove numbers might be a bit slower this month. However, February is just around the corner, and these numbers are expected to improve significantly.

    In the backcountry, the action is fast-paced and diverse. Redfish, Cobia, and various schooling species like Jacks, Sea Trout, and Pompano are abundant. While Snook are not as active due to cooler water temperatures, there are those rare days when mild air temperatures and calmer winds can bring them to life. Predator fishing is also on the rise, with Giant Barracuda and several species of Sharks ready to challenge anglers.

    When it comes to lures and bait, I always recommend a mix of both to cover your bases. For offshore and reef fishing, jigs and spoons can be very effective. The 3” C.A.L. Shad Tail, rigged with a ¼ oz short shank jig head, is a versatile and highly effective lure that can be used in various conditions. For backcountry fishing, live bait such as shrimp, pinfish, and mullet can be irresistible to many species. However, artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater baits can also yield great results, especially for species like Redfish and Snook.

    If you're looking for some hot spots, I highly recommend the patch reefs in the Florida Keys. These natural formations, located about halfway to the coral reef, offer a mix of backcountry and reef fishing in calmer waters. The Marquesas Keys are another excellent spot, particularly for predator fishing and targeting large Barracuda and Sharks.

    In summary, January is an excellent time to fish in the Florida Keys and Miami. With the right lures, bait, and knowledge of the tides and weather, you're set for a memorable fishing trip. So grab your gear, and let's get out there and catch some fish Tight lines
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    4 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Keys and Miami in Chilly Conditions: Tides, Lures, and Hot Spots for January 30th, 2025

    Fishing the Florida Keys and Miami in Chilly Conditions: Tides, Lures, and Hot Spots for January 30th, 2025
    Jan 30 2025
    Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, your go-to expert for all things fishing in and around the Florida Keys and Miami. Today, January 30th, 2025, promises to be an interesting day on the water, so let's dive into the details.

    First off, let's talk about the tides. For Key West, we have a low tide at 4:17 AM and a high tide at 10:55 AM, followed by another low tide at 3:42 PM and a high tide at 9:50 PM[5]. In Miami Beach, the tides are a bit different: low tide at 2:23 AM, high tide at 8:42 AM, low tide at 2:50 PM, and high tide at 8:55 PM[2]. These tidal shifts can significantly impact fish activity, so timing your casts accordingly is crucial.

    The weather has been quite chilly lately, with temperatures dipping into the 50s in the Keys, which is unusually cold for this time of year. However, this cold front has brought some exciting fishing opportunities. The water temperatures in the backcountry creeks have been around 57 degrees, which can slow down fish activity, but patience is key here[1].

    Recently, we've seen some great catches in the area. In the backcountry, drum fishing has been fair, with catches of 15-18 lb fish and even some smaller ones. Snook and redfish have also been active, with a notable catch of a 12-13 lb snook and a few decent-sized redfish. Offshore, kingfish and wahoo have been biting, especially near the reef lines. Spanish mackerel and yellowtail snappers are also active in these areas[1][4].

    For lures, I always recommend using something that mimics the natural baitfish. The 3” C.A.L. Shad Tail is an excellent choice, especially when rigged with a ¼ oz short shank jig head. This lure can be fished in various ways, from a straight reel with little bumps to a typical jigging retrieve, and it's highly effective in heavy winds and cold water[3].

    If you prefer live bait, shrimp and sand fleas are great options for pompano and tarpon, especially around the bridges in the Keys where shrimp runs occur a few days before and after the full moon. For kingfish and wahoo, live bait or spoons and rig balo work well[4].

    Now, let's talk about some hot spots. The area around the color change where the green water meets the blue water is a prime spot for catching sailfish, mixed in with some Spanish mackerel and kingfish. Trolling around this area with rig balo or dropping live baits on the surface can yield some big catches[4].

    Another spot is near the reef lines off Miami and the Upper Keys. Here, you can find kingfish, wahoo, and even some blackfin tuna and mahi. Using big spoons or live baits halfway down the reef can result in some thrilling fights with big fish[4].

    In the backcountry, focus on areas with good schools of drum and snook. Patience is key here, as the cold water can make the fish a bit sluggish. Sitting and waiting for bites, especially in areas with good cover like mangroves and creeks, can pay off with some nice catches[1].

    In summary, today's fishing in the Florida Keys and Miami looks promising despite the cold weather. Timing your trips with the tides, using the right lures or live baits, and targeting the right spots can make for a memorable day on the water. Stay warm, stay patient, and tight lines
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    4 mins