Spring has seemingly sprung here in the Keys, regardless of what that groundhog saw or didn’t see. It actually seemed to have done so a few weeks ago.
To those of you not here long enough to experience our “seasons” – or even know we really had them – I assure you we do, even though sometimes it feels like summer, and summer XL. This seasonality is particularly evident through the eyes of an angler. Allow me to elaborate.
The transition from winter to spring here in the Keys, with regard to fishing, can be marked by a number of factors or changes. Here are a few:
- Water temperature is on the rise as low 70s give way to upper 70s. Check.
- Large schools of mullet arrive. Check.
- Tarpon are appearing at the bridges in numbers, whether biting or not. Check.
- Schools of spawning permit arrive on oceanside wrecks. Check.
- Tailing conditions form off the edge of the reef where sailfish can be seen and caught in impressive numbers. Check.
- Bluefin tuna (yes, you read that right) are traveling through. Check.
As winter is on its way out, expect the mackerel to follow. There are still good numbers of Spanish mackerel out in the bay, but likely not for long as that water heats up. But if you’re looking for some action and calm seas, start anywhere in the grass five to 10 miles out in the bay. Get the chum flowing and cast small lures or jigs tipped with shrimp on a light wire for steady action. There should be some mangrove snappers out there as well that can usually be taken on cut bait.
On the ocean side, everything will depend on the current and water clarity, as usual. If you are looking at the bottom in 50 feet, forget about yellowtail. A moderate current and slightly cloudy water is a much better scenario there. Lots of chum and small pieces of bait are the recipe, usually in 40 to 80 feet of water.
If the current is running like a river (to the east) it might be time to go look for those sailfish tailing down sea as they surf waves offshore. A live bait placed just right usually gets the bite. The best tailing conditions will be in very powdery-looking water where you can easily see the dark body of a sailfish or giant tuna coming from far away. Link up with Noreaster or another local charter service to experience this spectacular phenomenon, as it truly is a sight to behold. And if you’re wondering about those big tunas, yes, it’s possible to catch one with the right tackle and the perfect presentation. They are primarily migrating when seen here and not aggressively feeding, but a number of boats last week were successful in catching and releasing a giant.
Out in the deep, good numbers of big mutton snapper have been taken on wrecks in 150-250 feet of water. Live baits on the bottom and patience pays here.
Some permit have begun to show on the usual oceanside haunts and usually will take a well-placed live crab. Again, a seasoned guide will provide you your best opportunity at these trophies.
As far as offshore goes, blackfin tuna at the humps have been consistent, but unfortunately, so have the sharks. Plan on landing half of what you hook trolling small lures and feathers at about five knots.
And the million dollar question: NO, the mahi are not here yet!
Stay tuned for further updates on all these fronts and call or text Captain Nick at 508-769-4189 to set up your next adventure.
