Key West is home to world class tarpon fishing. Tarpon up into the one hundred pound class can be found on both the ocean side and in the backcountry. Although most serious tarpon anglers target April through June for the spawning migration, quality tarpon fishing can be found in the backcountry year round. With warm winter weather, large tarpon move in from the Gulf of Mexico, filling into the backcountry basins and channels. Tarpon are tackle testers. Ten to Twelve weight fly rods are the game here backed by your most reliable reel the fish typically still have the upper hand.

Known as the most technical fish to target on flats, anglers travel from all over the world to challenge their skills with Lower Keys permit. These black tailed devils forage the shallow water flats in search for crustaceans. Pursuit of Permit requires upmost concentration, precise casting, and acute awareness. Landing a permit is a true accomplishment as they are often uninspired by even the most perfectly presented fly.

The “grey ghost” of the flats. Bonefish often feed in schools, mudding the shallow sand and grass flats in search of shrimp, crabs, and other small crustaceans. A well respected flats target, bonefish are are found year round in good numbers. A perfect target of all skill levels, an angler will often be rewarded with a well presented fly. Once hooked, bonefish often make multiple screaming runs well into the backing. Known as one of the fastest fish in the ocean, bonefish have impressive strength for their size.

The “water wolf” of the flats. A large, wary predator proven tough feed on fly. When hooked often acrobatic, boasting blistering runs capable of putting a bend in an 11wt fly rod. Sitting stationary on the flat in an ambush position, Barracuda wait patiently for a baitfish to make a mistake, then ambush their prey. Armed with a clear fly line and a long leader, an angler throws a needlefish fly far past and in front of a targeted fish without spooking it. The fly is then slowly two-hand striped past the fish trying to provoke its attention. A shift in the cuda’s body language or a slow creep into a striking position reveals that it sees the fly. Recognizing this the angler increases the speed of retrieve seducing the fish to chase. When the barracuda commits, the angler two hand strips the fly into a full speed locking the fish into pursuit and if stripped fast enough, may inspire a bite.