The Florida Keys offer a world-class fly fishing destination, with opportunities to target a variety of species, including tarpon, bonefish, and permit. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, finding the right fly fishing guide can make all the difference in your success and enjoyment on the water. In this article, we’ll explore the best times of year to fish, essential skills for beginners, and recommendations for top-notch fly fishing guides in the Florida Keys.
Best Times of Year to Fly Fish for Tarpon and Permit
Timing is crucial when it comes to fly fishing for tarpon and permit in the Florida Keys. Here’s a breakdown of the best times of year for each species:
Tarpon:
– Late April to July: This is the prime time to target big, migratory tarpon.
– July to October: This period is ideal for fishing juvenile tarpon.
Permit:
– The warmer months, typically from May to October, are generally the best time to target permit in the Keys. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the year and water conditions.
Essential Skills and Practices for Beginners
Fly fishing in the saltwater environment of the Florida Keys presents unique challenges, and it’s essential for beginners to develop the necessary skills and practices to succeed. Here are some key considerations:
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Practice Casting: Before your trip, focus on improving your double haul and aim to shoot at least 40 feet of line in a couple of false casts. This will help you make accurate casts in the wind.
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Understand Saltwater Fly Fishing: Familiarize yourself with the specific techniques and tackle required for saltwater fly fishing, which typically involves using rods between 8 and 12 weight.
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Choose the Right Guide: Select a guide who can provide instruction and guidance on the intricacies of saltwater fly fishing, helping you develop the necessary skills and techniques.
Recommended Guides and Locations
When it comes to fly fishing in the Florida Keys, there are several highly regarded guides and outfitters to consider. Here are some top recommendations:
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Moon Cast Anglers: Offering guided fly fishing and light tackle fishing charters in Islamorada, Florida, as well as backcountry fishing in the Everglades National Park.
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Tailing Water Expeditions: Providing fly fishing charters in Key West, targeting species such as tarpon, bonefish, and permit.
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Florida Keys Fun Fishing: Offering fly fishing trips in Islamorada, catering to both beginners and experienced anglers.
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Key West Fly Fishing: Providing guided fly fishing trips in Key West, with a focus on tarpon, bonefish, permit, and other species.
Additional Tips and Information
To make the most of your fly fishing experience in the Florida Keys, consider the following additional tips and information:
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Gear and Equipment: While guides often provide top-quality fly fishing equipment, it’s essential to bring essential items like sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and breathable clothing.
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Fishing Seasons: Check the fishing seasons calendar to ensure you time your trip to coincide with the best opportunities for your target species.
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Book in Advance: To guarantee a spot, especially during peak season, be sure to book your fishing trip well in advance.
By following these guidelines and recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable fly fishing adventure in the stunning waters of the Florida Keys.
References
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Moon Cast Anglers. (n.d.). Moon Cast Anglers | Florida Keys Guided Fly Fishing and Light Tackle Fishing Charters. Retrieved from https://www.mooncastanglers.com/
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Tailing Water Expeditions. (n.d.). Key West Fly Fishing – Flats | Backcountry | Tarpon | Bonefish | Permit. Retrieved from https://www.tailingwaterexpeditions.com/fly-fishing/
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Florida Keys Fun Fishing. (n.d.). Islamorada Fly Fishing – Florida Keys Fun Fishing. Retrieved from https://floridakeysfunfishing.com/islamorada-fly-fishing/
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Tailing Water Expeditions. (n.d.). Key West Fly Fishing Guide & Charters – Tailing Water Expeditions. Retrieved from https://www.tailingwaterexpeditions.com/
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Key West Fly Fishing. (n.d.). Guided Fly Fishing in Florida Keys, Key West, Bahamas, Cuba. Retrieved from https://keywestflyfishing.com/.