Fresh Cudjoe Key Fishing Reports

The early morning Tarpon fishing has been good!!

The past werk we have had sime very exiting tarpon fishing

This January has offered some awesome fishing in the back country. With mild weather and sunny days The water temperature was often reading above 80°. Weather like this has the potential for producing a grand slam kind of day. Today, we are getting over a bit of a cold snap chilling the keys to the 60s. Due to that cooler weather I recommend my customers to book a trip in the evening. Sunset fishing has been best, it seems a full Day of sunshine brings our water temperatures up 3° or 4° higher than it was in the morning and that can really make a difference for fish biting. When things slow down due to cooler temperatures I often use smaller Baits in slightly deeper water. As the temperature begins to rise I start looking for dark muddy bottom or turtle grass on the south facing sides of mangroves that get the most sunlight. The night fishing has been phenomenal, as always. I’ve been successful with fishing resort dock lights and bridges as the current flowing rather fast, best at the top of falling tide. On night trips, with decent weather and tide conditions it’s almost guaranteed that everyone catches a tarpon. Fly fisherman are also able to spank a few with a black tarpon toad! Don’t let these windy days get you down. I find that we catch the biggest and most fish in dirty water when the wind is cranking beyond 15 mph. The dirty water allows me to use heavier tackle without spooking the fish. When that wind isn’t blowing so hard I like to hit our patch reefs and nearshore wreaks catching mutton snapper, yellow jacks, cero and king Mackerel. It’s a great way to catch dinner What Great news it is to see that our Snook population here in the Florida Keys is skyrocketing! It’s great to see our efforts in conservation are being rewarded with big, often Beyond 30” Snook… Everywhere!

Hey Guys and Gals! The early December Snook, Redfish and Tarpon fishing have been the best I have seen in quite a while. Nearly every guest has been able to catch many of each species on every outing out of the Lower Keys, specifically Cudjoe Key. We’ve had unseasonably high water temperatures that have created enhanced and unusual opportunities for Bonefish and Permit in our area. Like to get in on the action? Come fish with Goliath Charters, you will not be disappointed.

At Goliath Charters Key West, we hold the key to a magnificent secret that unlocks the power of pilchards, setting ablaze a frenzy of feeding that captivates both the fish and our clients. These plentiful little baitfish grace the shallows during the fall, winter, and early spring, their presence a gift from the sea. When fortune favors us with an abundance of pilchards, we seize the opportunity to unleash their full potential. Our tried and tested technique involves utilizing these enchanting baitfish as live chum. Anchored or drifting over our chosen fishing grounds, we skillfully gather a handful of pilchards and release them with a graceful arc behind our vessel. This elegant display creates a symphony of scent and commotion, beckoning fish from far and wide. Witness the spectacle! As the pilchards dance upon the surface, a tempest of activity ensues, as if the very soul of the ocean awakens with fervor. This is the moment, the perfect juncture, to present your baited hook or artful fly to the frenzy. The fish, enraptured by the spectacle, strike with abandon, their focus unwavering amidst the chaos. Such circumstances bestow upon our clients a greater chance of reeling in a triumphant catch. The power of pilchards extends far beyond mere attraction; it creates an ambiance of exhilaration and dynamism, transforming the act of fishing into an extraordinary experience. To witness the feeding frenzy firsthand is to glimpse into the heart of nature's marvels, where excitement and thrill intertwine seamlessly. It is no surprise that pilchards reign supreme as our bait of choice, for they orchestrate a tumultuous symphony of feeding frenzies around the Goliath Charters Key West vessel. So, if you yearn for an adventure steeped in action, join us at Goliath Charters Key West. Embrace the power of pilchards as we weave their magic into a feeding frenzy that promises an indelible day upon the water. May your lines remain taut, and your spirits soar, Capt. Craig Clopper

The transition to winter species is in full swing. With the water temps dropping we are getting opportunities to target species that haven't been around for awhile. Sea trout are starting to show up and while targeting them you are likely to run into jack creval, large lady fish, and fired up black tip sharks. I am also excited to see the large Barracuda making their way onto the flats again....they are a top predator that will definately test your fish fighting skills. With their blistering, drag peeling runs and tendency to go full airborn, they really get the blood pumping. If you are looking for top tier table fair, you are in luck. Winter time brings in schools of yellow jack (a favorite of the locals) and cero/spanish mackerel which are all three top notch eaters. I am Also starting to see some larger snapper again as they move in from the reef with the cool water. It is only going to get better from here, so book a trip soon and lets get out on the water!!!