Fall Tarpon on Fly or Spin Gear

We left the dock around 8pm and were able to hit the baitfish traps and get out to the fishing grounds in time to enjoy the last bit of sunset on the water. The sharks were around the boat shortly but it took a little bit of time for the sharks to start actually taking the baits. Once they did everyone got a chance to fight and reel one in. A super fun option for pulling on some big fish while avoiding the crowds and heat.

With the annual coldfronts starting to show back up that means the larger sized Barracuda are starting to appear on the flats again. It’s a fun and active fishery for either sight fishing or fan casting, whichever you prefer. Light tackle spinning gear or fly fishing both work well and it’s a blast. This fishery will remain strong through the springtime and is one of my favorite fisheries of the year.

Tarpon fishing in Key West in August can be great. While the peak tarpon migration generally occurs from March to July, many resident tarpon remain in the area throughout the Summer and Fall. These fish range from 5 to 50 pounds. They can be found in backcountry channels, near mangroves and nearshore flats both Atlantic and gulf side. The calm, warm waters of August provide ideal conditions for both fly fishing and artificial lures, especially during early morning or late evening when the heat is less intense and the fish are more active. But they can be caught all day long. This time of year generally sees less pressured fishing, as the spring and summer visitor crowds begin to thin out. Night fishing is also always a great option . August offers a unique opportunity to target resident tarpon in Key West and the Lower Keys.