Trout fishing is solid throughout January. Florida’s mild winters keep the water temperatures in the mid-to-high 60s, so you can expect to target other inshore species as well, including Redfish, Tripletail, and Sheepshead.

Don’t let the winter blues hold you back. February provides good action for Sheepshead and Tripletail, as well as Redfish and Trout. If your skills are on point, you may even be able to court the occasional Mangrove Snapper.

Water temperatures begin to warm up so bigger fish start to come out of hibernation and show up closer to shore. Trout increase in size and quantity, as well as Black Drum and Redfish. Other likely catches may include Cobia, Jack Crevalle, and Grouper.

It’s time for Tarpon fishing, so book a fly fishing trip for the ultimate back bay showdown! Snook, Permit, and Mangrove Snapper start to show up in numbers as well, creating a fishing frenzy in the mangroves and backcountry flats.

As water temperatures reach the mid-to-high 70s, the variety of fish increases. Redfish, Tarpon, Trout, and Snook fishing remain hot with the chance of catching various Grouper and Snapper species. Other targets include Ladyfish, Tripletail, Cobia, and even the occasional Barracuda.

Temperatures heat up, making the fish hide out in shady areas. Mangrove, Mutton, and Yellowtail Snapper, as well as Goliath Grouper, Ladyfish, Tripletail, and Cobia are willing to take the bait. Head a little further out from the Pass and target Hogfish and Black Grouper while drifting above underwater structures.

July marks the peak of the wet season, but no need to worry, rains come and go quickly. The best time to go fishing is in the morning while fish congregate around the Matlacha Bridge. Permit and Jack Crevalle are coming in hot, as well as Tarpon and Mangrove Snapper.

The wet season continues so be sure to check the forecast before planning your trip. If you avoid the storms, offshore bottom fishing produce some great opportunities for Grouper and Snapper. Night fishing for Snook around the bridge or in the flats is also a great option.

The rainy season starts to wind down but be on the alert for hurricanes. Cold fronts start to roll in but water temperatures still remain nice and warm for Redfish and Black Drum to make their comeback right in time for fall. 

Tides are low, making October perfect for flats fishing. Redfish, Black Drum, and Snook flood the waters of Matlacha Pass, granting anglers with premium action on light tackle. Head further out and troll Kingfish and Cobia or bottom fish for Amberjack and Grouper.

Strong cold fronts continue to roll in which bring Tarpon fishing to a halt. Cobia start to migrate southward along the coast but you can still target them in nearshore waters. The Goliath Grouper catch is still good, as well as Amberjack, Kingfish, and Barracuda.

Inshore fishing is prime time and Snook, Redfish, and Black Drum take the spotlight. Calmer seas will allow you to fish further out as well, targeting the likes of Gag, Red, and Black Grouper.