Florida Keys

Tip of the week: 
Techniques: 

Be able to side cast and comfortable with the "double haul". This will help you punch into the wind and lay your leader out better.

Seven-day forecast: 

Mid 70's to lower 80,s

Conditions: 

Hello Anglers! We at the Saltwater Angler wish you a warm and sunny welcome from our little slice of Key West paradise!

Rain, rain go away! This May has been one of the toughest, weather-wise, in years.The tarpon are here but consistently inconsistent rain and wind make it difficult to find and see migrating fish. Also, along with the migration of tarpon comes the migration of guides who only fish here for a few months out of the year. There isn't a point, flat or channel edge that doesn't have a skiff sitting on it. All of these factors make for a challenging day on the water. But if it was easy it would not be as much fun, and the rewards can be fantastic! If you put your time in and be patient, the right scenario for hooking up will present itself. Always be vigilant and ready to make a quick cast. Anglers must take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way. Line management is key when the wind is a factor. Make sure to have your line stripped in so it lays on the deck of no basket is being used. There are other means of keeping the line in order, like mats and spikes. Remember, if it can go wrong, it will. Keep your head in the game and eliminate all of the little things that can ruin a shot at a big fish. Now we have started seeing nice solid strings on the ocean side beaches and inlets. At first light, happy fish are ready to eat a well presented fly. As the light gets higher these ocean fish get wary. Try Longer Leaders and smaller, lighter flies to fool these fish. Hint; never hesitate to use a worm fly this time of year. The Palolo worm hatch is on the horizon! Keep your ears open in the afternoons and be ready to head out at a moments notice. Bonefish have been consistent at certain tides up to the east. Find good current on a falling tide. Sandy flats should produce some good shots at the bones.

Offshore there has been a very good sailfish bite happening. They love the rough water. The guys flying kites have been whacking them. Don't think that small chin-weighted and skipping ballyhoo won't get a strike though!

Get down here and book a trip with the Saltwater Angler

Must Have Flies: 
Peterson's Spawning Shrimp tan 2 Buy from Orvis.com
Bluewater Softy Minnow Chart/white 1/0 Buy from Orvis.com
Floating Tarpon Toad tan, olive 3/0,5/0 Buy from Orvis.com
Barracuda Fly white, chart 3/0 Buy from Orvis.com
Grassett's Flats Minnow various colors 1/0 Buy from Orvis.com
Grand Slam Crab tan 1/0 Buy from Orvis.com
The Saltwater Angler