July in the Upper Keys has been hotter than ever, and so has the bonefish bite. We’re getting into the summer trend of fishing morning and evening half-day trips.
We’re using the low light to target waking and tailing bonefish on shallow flats. With live shrimp getting smaller and smaller, the fly or artificial is your best choice of tricking them.
Tarpon have been chasing baitfish and shrimp hatches on the oceanside. They’ve been a delight on light tackle and fly catching, what guides call “fun-size tarpon” in the sargassum grass. Tarpon from 20-40” are a great size for anglers to catch their first one on fly. We’re even seeing some larger fish join in on the action as they migrate north to cooler waters.
Back in the Everglades, the snook and redfish bite have been surprisingly good despite the heat. We’re seeing small schools of redfish tailing at first light. Snooks have been active on the flats as well. It’s one of my favorite fish to target as they thrash large chartreuse flies less than a boat length away.
FISH FACT
Bonefish have deeply forked tails that provide power for chasing prey in lush grass beds. Keen eyesight and a skittish nature make these fish a prized trophy for saltwater anglers.
FISH TIP
Live shrimp or jigs tipped with fresh shrimp are the best baits for conventional fishermen. Fly fishermen patiently pole through shallow flats stalking these elusive fish.
