Fishing Tips and Tactics for the Keys

Fishing Tips and Tactics for the Keys

Located between the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, the Florida Keys are a paradise for those looking for their next big catch. From shallow flats rich with bonefish to the deep blue water that the majestic sailfish calls home, the Keys offer a vibrant fishing experience. Before heading out on your trip, take some time to learn how to catch fish in the Florida Keys through tips such as which bait to use and techniques to follow.

The Best Bait for Fishing in the Keys

The bait you use when fishing in the Florida Keys depends on which species you want to catch. Some of the most effective options for Key West fishing tackle include:

• Shrimp: Live or fresh shrimp is a versatile bait option that attracts snapper, grouper and snook. You can also use shrimp with various fishing techniques, such as live lining and bottom fishing.
• Pilchards: If you frequently use live bait, pilchards are a great option. They feature a natural swimming action and shimmer scales to attract tarpon and snook. Since pilchards are common in waters around the Keys, you can use them in fishing methods like free-lining or on a jighead.
• Pinfish: As a local favorite, pinfish are one of the most common bait types, and they can easily attract snapper, grouper and mackerel. Pinfish come in various sizes, making them easy to match to your target species or fishing technique.
• Crabs: Crabs are natural prey for species such as permit, tarpon and snapper. Most anglers use blue and stone crabs when fishing in the Keys as they are more readily available and appeal to a greater variety of fish.
• Ballyhoo: Ballyhoo is one of the more unique bait options, as you can use them fresh or frozen. Since ballyhoo resembles the appearance of small baitfish, they are excellent at attracting mahi-mahi, sailfish and tuna when rigged with dusters, skirts or teasers.
• Cut bait: Cut bait is a common option for bottom fishing as it attracts snapper, grouper and barracuda. Cut bait releases a scent into the water, attracting fish from a distance.

Different Fishing Techniques for the Keys

The Florida Keys offer a variety of marine environments, allowing anglers to try several fishing techniques. Some of the top ways to fish in the Keys include:

• Flats fishing: Flats fishing is when anglers target fish species such as bonefish, permit and tarpon in shallow or grassy water. 
• Bottom fishing: Bottom fishing is when anglers target species like snapper and barracuda that live near the ocean floor or structures like reefs or rocky outcrops.
• Trolling: In Florida, trolling is especially popular for species such as mahi-mahi, tuna and sailfish, and some anglers also use planer boards to spread out their lines and increase their chances of catching multiple fish. 
• Live bait fishing: Live bait fishing involves using baitfish like shrimp or crabs with balloon drifting and chumming techniques to attract tarpon or sailfish.
• Spearfishing: Spearfishing is when divers use spearguns or pole spears to target hogfish, snapper and grouper while free diving without scuba gear.

Best Times of Day to go Fishing in the Keys

While any time of day offers the opportunity to catch a fish, some general times anglers recommend fishing include:

• Sunrise
• Sunset
• After dark
• Incoming tide
• Outgoing tide

What to Know for Licensing and Other Rules

Before you begin fishing, you want to ensure you have the proper license and follow all rules and regulations. Here are some of the top fishing tips for the Keys.

Fishing License

Both residents and non-residents must have a fishing license to fish in the Florida Keys. The type of fishing license you purchase will depend on factors like your residency status and whether you plan on fishing in saltwater, freshwater or both.

Regulations

The Florida Keys have size and bag limits for each fish species, which specify the minimum size of fish that can be kept and the number of fish you can harvest each day.

Permits

Certain types of fishing such as lobstering require special permits or tags that you must obtain before engaging in these activities.

Take a Break From Fishing at Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort

Relax and unwind as you tell stories from your Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort fishing trip. With private beach access and a full-service marina, you can fish from the campground or make it your home base between fishing excursions. Book your stay to start planning your next great fishing adventure!