Key West Fishing Calendar
Key West is one of the top fishing destinations in the world, offering anglers the chance to catch a wide variety of prized species throughout the year. No matter the season, there is always something biting in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys. This fishing calendar helps you understand the best times of the year to target popular species and plan the perfect fishing trip.
Types of Fishing in Key West
From shallow backcountry flats to deep offshore waters, Key West offers several unique fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels.
Offshore / Deep Sea Fishing
Travel beyond the reef into deeper waters to target powerful pelagic species such as sailfish, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and blackfin tuna. Offshore trips offer exciting action and the chance to hook into some of the ocean’s fastest fish.
Reef Fishing
The reefs and wrecks surrounding Key West are home to a variety of bottom species. Anglers commonly catch snapper, grouper, and other reef fish while fishing these productive structures.
Flats & Backcountry Fishing
The shallow waters around the Florida Keys are famous for world-class flats fishing. These calm, clear waters are perfect for sight fishing species like bonefish, permit, and tarpon.
Best Fishing Seasons by Species
Below is a guide to some of the most popular fish species found in Key West and the months when they are typically most active.
Sailfish
Best Months: December – March
Sailfish are one of the most exciting offshore species to catch. Known for their speed and spectacular jumps, they are commonly targeted during the cooler winter months.
Wahoo
Best Months: December – February
Wahoo are incredibly fast and powerful predators that thrive in the offshore waters around Key West during the winter season.
Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin)
Best Months: April – September
Mahi-mahi are famous for their bright colors and aggressive strikes. They are commonly found in warmer months, especially around floating debris and weed lines offshore.
Tarpon
Best Months: April – June
Often called the “Silver King,” tarpon are one of the most sought-after sport fish in the Keys. Large numbers migrate through the area during late spring.
Bonefish
Best Months: March – October
Bonefish are a favorite target for flats anglers. These fast and elusive fish are commonly found in shallow backcountry waters during warmer months.
Permit
Best Months: March – July
Permit are one of the most challenging species to catch on the flats. They are known for their cautious behavior and strong fighting ability.
Blackfin Tuna
Best Months: April – May
Spring is an excellent time to target blackfin tuna offshore, where they often travel in schools and provide fast-paced action.
Kingfish (King Mackerel)
Best Months: November – March
Kingfish are well known for their long, powerful runs and are commonly caught in the cooler months around Key West.
Snapper (Yellowtail, Mutton, Mangrove)
Available Year-Round (Peak: April – June)
Snapper species are abundant in Key West waters and can be targeted throughout the year around reefs and wrecks.
Grouper (Black, Gag, Red)
Best Months: May – September
Grouper are a popular bottom species found near reefs and structures. Note that gag grouper season is typically restricted from January through April.
