The Florida Keys, with its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, is a paradise for anglers. The region is world-renowned for its saltwater fishing, but it also has plenty of fly-fishing opportunities. There is a diverse population of fish species for anglers to try to test their skills and catch some insta-worthy fish. The method you use to fish will have a direct impact on the types of fish that you may catch. Here are some of the types of fish that you can expect to reel in while fly fishing in the Florida Keys:
Bonefish: Known as the “gray ghost” of the flats, bonefish are one of the most sought-after species for fly anglers in the Florida Keys. These fish put up tough fights that make it challenging to reel them in. Bonefish have incredible speed, and it can be challenging to track them down. You can find them while wading through shallow flats or cruising in search of prey. With their keen eyesight and skittish nature, fooling a bonefish with a well-presented fly is a thrilling accomplishment.
Tarpon: The Florida Keys are renowned for their tarpon fishing. Fly fishermen flock to these waters for a chance to hook into the “silver king.” They are known for their acrobatic jumps out of the water and powerful fights, making them a tough test for any angler. These fish can also grow to impressive sizes, with some reaching over 100 pounds. The thrill of hooking into a tarpon on a fly rod is an experience that every angler should have on their bucket list.
Permit: This may be confusing for some, but permit fish are actual fish. They are not called permit fish because you need a permit to fish for them. Permit fish are large, silverfish that often feed on crabs and other crustaceans near the surface of the water. They are highly prized by fishermen because of the challenges that they present. These wary and intelligent fish are known for their selective feeding habits and their ability to test an angler’s patience and casting accuracy. Permits can be found on the flats, often in shallow water. Successfully fooling a permit with a well-presented fly is a true accomplishment and a testament to an angler’s skill.
Snook: Snook, with its distinctive black lateral line and voracious appetite, is a popular target for fly anglers in the Florida Keys. These ambush predators can be found in a variety of habitats, including mangroves, bridges, and flats. Snook are known for their explosive strikes and powerful runs, making them an exciting species to target on a fly rod. With their aggressive nature and willingness to take a well-presented fly, snook provide thrilling opportunities for fly anglers of all skill levels.
Barracuda: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, fly fishing for barracuda in the Florida Keys is an exhilarating experience. These toothy predators are known for their lightning-fast strikes and blistering runs. Barracuda can be found patrolling the flats and channels, often following the movement of other fish. Presenting a fast-moving fly to a cruising barracuda and witnessing its explosive take is an unforgettable moment for any fly angler.
Schedule Your Fly-Fishing Trip Today!
At Zoned In Charters, we offer fly fishing charters in the Florida Keys region. The region has some of the best fly-fishing waters in the country. There are plenty of crystal-clear waters to fish from where you can wade in the water or cast off a skiff. Fly fishing is also a fun, exhilarating fishing method that can help you catch some amazing fish. You can try your luck at reeling in Barracuda, Tarpon, Permit, and Snook, just to name a few. Contact us today to learn more about our fly-fishing opportunities!
