The Florida Keys are a year-round fishing paradise, but knowing what to catch and when can make the difference between a good day on the water and an unforgettable one. From shallow-water flats fishing to legendary backcountry action, each season brings its own prime species and opportunities.
Whether you’re a local resident looking to plan your next outing or introducing friends and family to the sport, this seasonal fishing calendar will help you make the most of every month in the Keys.
Winter (December – February): Calm Waters & Backcountry Action
Winter in the Florida Keys is all about cooler temperatures, clear water, and excellent backcountry fishing conditions. Winds can pick up, but protected waters near the Everglades offer consistent action.
Top species to target:
- Bonefish – active on warmer afternoon tides
- Permit – tailing on calm, sunny days
- Snook – holding near mangroves and structure
- Redfish – cruising shallow backcountry waters
- Trout – found in deeper channels and basins
Winter is also ideal for family fishing charters, thanks to comfortable weather and steady bites that keep anglers of all skill levels engaged.
Spring (March – May): Prime Flats & Fly Fishing Season
Spring is one of the most exciting seasons in the Keys. Water temperatures rise, baitfish return, and the flats come alive. This is peak season for sight-fishing enthusiasts.
Top species to target:
- Bonefish – feeding aggressively on the flats
- Permit – migrating and staging to spawn
- Tarpon – early-season arrivals in channels and basins
- Snapper – schooling around structure
- Grouper – active near wrecks and ledges
This is also one of the best times of year for fly fishing, with excellent visibility and active fish cruising the flats. Anglers who enjoy technical, visual fishing will find spring hard to beat.
Summer (June – August): Tarpon, Everglades & Big Action
Summer brings heat, but also some of the most legendary fishing the Florida Keys have to offer. Early mornings and evenings are prime, and calm seas open up endless possibilities.
Top species to target:
- Tarpon – peak migration and big fights
- Snook – aggressive in shaded backcountry waters
- Redfish – tailing early and late in the day
- Bonefish – holding in deeper flats
- Permit – found near passes and wrecks
This is a fantastic season for anglers looking for adrenaline-pumping fights. The Everglades shine in summer, offering shaded waters and explosive strikes that make every trip memorable.
Fall (September – November): Variety & Fewer Crowds
Fall is an underrated gem in the Florida Keys. With fewer boats on the water and warm temperatures lingering, fishing remains strong across multiple habitats.
Top species to target:
- Tarpon – late-season shots before migration ends
- Bonefish – returning in solid numbers
- Redfish – feeding heavily ahead of winter
- Snook – active and aggressive
- Trout – improving as waters cool
Fall is perfect for locals who want flexibility, whether that’s flats fishing, backcountry exploration, or relaxed fishing charters without peak-season crowds.
Why Fish Year-Round in the Florida Keys?
One of the biggest advantages of fishing here is that there’s no off-season; just different opportunities. By matching the season with the right location and technique, anglers can enjoy productive trips any month of the year.
From technical fly fishing on the flats to action-packed Everglades adventures, the Keys offer something for everyone.
Ready to Plan Your Next Trip?
If you’re in the Florida Keys looking to take advantage of the best fishing each season has to offer, the right guide makes all the difference.
Contact Zoned In Charters to book your next trip and experience experienced guided backcountry fishing, flats fishing, Everglades adventures, and customized family fishing charters tailored to the season. Whether you’re chasing bonefish, permit, tarpon, or trout, Zoned In Charters will put you in the right place at the right time! We welcome the Islamorada, Key Largo, Marathon, and Tavernier, FL areas.
