Florida Keys Backcountry fishing report August 16-22

Posted on 8/16/2012

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Florida Keys backcountry fishing report August 17-19

Lots of fun to be had this weekend in the Everglades National Park. The fishing opportunities are endless specially with the nice calm weather we have been enjoying in south Florida. This makes for great sight fishing conditions to be taken advantage off. The Redfish bite on the shallow water flats through out the park remains very productive with Snook, Trout and some Tarpon around as well. Jerk baits rigged wheedles will get you on the action. Work the deeper channels and run offs around Flamingo on the last of the outgoing tide and beginning of the incoming tide for a good Redfish and Snook bite. As the water rises get up on the shallow areas around Snake bite, wheedles jerk baits will get the job done. Remember that you most pole or use a trolling motor to get up in this areas since the use of your engine is not allowed. Plenty of action going on the shorelines from Flamingo to middle cape with Snook, Redfish, Trout and Tarpon there to be found. Cover some ground with artificial baits to find the fish, if an area is not producing the bites move on to the next. The area from Sprigger Bank to Sandy Key is red hot right now, big Trout, Ladyfish, Snappers and many others will keep you busy for as long as you want. Fish white 1/2 oz Buck-tail jigs in an up and down motion behind the boat while you drift. Once you find the rhythm you should be catching them every cast. Make sure you only take what you need for a fresh dinner, most of the Trout are big and full of eggs. Farther out in gulf waters the wrecks and rock piles are  holding schools of Permit,Goliath Groupers and the occasional Cobia.

The Tarpon bite remains best at night drifting live medium size Crabs, dead baits on the bottom or live pilchards have been getting there fair number of bites early and later in the daytime hours. Bone fishing has been very productive lately with nice schools of fish being found in ocean side flats through out the keys. Schools have been feeding in 2-4 ft of water, a small size crab well presented will get you hooked up. The Permit continue to enjoy the hot weather and are making their regular appearance on the edges of flats and banks through out the keys. Get out on the water and take advantage of the wonderful tropical weather we enjoy in south Florida.
Captain Juan Garcia