Winter Fishing

The flats have been alive this winter! These warm winter temperatures along with unseasonably calm conditions have been producing epic flats fishing in the Lower Keys and Key West. The bonefishing has been incredible. There’s been adult and baby tarpon around, and when the conditions have been right decent permit fishing for those up to challenge. The big barracudas have been filling in following the last few cold fronts. They’ve been fresh and bitey.

With some time off recently, I headed out to the reef to do some snapper fishing. I was pleasantly surprised. The big mutton’s were biting! Those, along with beautiful mangrove and yellowtail snappers made for a great dinner. In addition, we released a large goliath grouper, and a handful of red grouper.

Doug holding one of the many Bonefish landed on his trip to Key West.

Liam’s third year fishing with Backcountry Flyfisher, excited to see his progress!

Legendary permit angler Jay Grant with a beautiful goliath grouper released in Key West