Florida Keys Update
It’s hard to believe Christmas is already over, and the New Year is just around the corner. This will be the final fishing report in 2024. I am excited for what 2024 holds in store and all the great fish my customers and I will catch.
Abundant Bait
Winter is here, and there’s a lot of bait fish around, like ballyhoo and pilchards. Because of this, I am finding plenty of opportunities inshore, with a focus on reef fishing. A nice side effect of this is that it lets me keep my clients happy on windier days.
“I am finding plenty of opportunities inshore, with a focus on reef fishing.”
― Captain Ben Zdan
Snapper Update
We are catching Mangrove and Mutton Snappers in the shallower waters, such as reef patches. The Yellowtail Snapper fishing has been great on the reef as well.
Grouper Update
I have been putting my clients on some really nice-sized Black Grouper, but we only have a few more days before the season closes.
Mackerel Update
Since there is plenty of wind to fly our kites, we have been catching a variety of mackerel. There have even been some nice smoker-sized Kingfish around. We are also catching high-quality Cero Mackerels in the kite and delicious Yellow Jacks for sushi on the reef.
Conclusion
Because the bait is inshore and so plentiful, we are going to start seeing Sailfish on the reef soon. The other day, we caught a sailfish on the kite while fishing for Yellowtail Snapper, and it won’t be the last!
If you are headed to the Florida Keys, consider Ben O’fishal Sportfishing Charters to add some adventure to your stay. Call me at 305-509-1821 or visit our contact page for more information.
