Reel in the Best of Both Worlds: Offshore and Flats Fishing in the Florida Keys

A guide to the different fish to target offshore and in the flats, along with a reference as to when to target these fish.

Aside from the incredible beauty, history and laid-back atmosphere, Key West is also known for its world class fishing, with a wide variety of fish species available to catch in either the flats or offshore. We'll run through a few target fish for each and give you a cheat sheet as to which months will be your best shot at catching your target fish.

Most popular fish to catch in the flats:

1. Bonefish - Bonefish are a popular game fish in the Keys and are known for their speed and agility. They are often caught on the flats with fly fishing gear.

2. Permit - Permit are a prized catch in the flats and are known for their fighting ability. They are often caught with live bait or by sight fishing with a fly.

3. Tarpon - Tarpon are one of the most sought-after game fish in the Keys, and they are known for their acrobatic jumps and long, powerful runs. They are often caught with live bait or by fly fishing.

4. Redfish - Redfish are a popular inshore game fish in the Keys, and they are known for their strong fight and large size. They are often caught with live bait or by sight fishing with a lure or fly.

5. Snook - Snook are a popular game fish in the Keys, and they are known for their aggressive strikes and strong fight. They are often caught with live bait or by sight fishing with a lure or fly.

Keep in mind that the availability of these fish can vary depending on the time of year and the specific location in the Keys, so it's always a good idea to check with local guides and experts to find out where and when to target these fish.

If you're into more of a fight (and boat ride), then we suggest strapping in for catching these big boys:

1. Sailfish - Sailfish are one of the most sought-after game fish in the Keys, known for their incredible speed and agility. They are often caught using live bait or by trolling with lures.

2. Mahi-Mahi - Mahi-Mahi, also known as dolphin fish, are a popular offshore game fish in the Keys. They are known for their acrobatic jumps and colorful appearance. They are often caught using live bait or by trolling with lures.

3. Tuna - Tuna are a popular offshore game fish in the Keys, known for their powerful runs and delicious meat. They are often caught using live bait or by trolling with lures.

4. Wahoo - Wahoo are a fast and elusive game fish in the Keys, known for their sharp teeth and delicious meat. They are often caught using live bait or by trolling with lures.

5. Grouper - Grouper are a popular bottom-dwelling fish in the Keys, known for their large size and delicious meat. They are often caught using live bait or by bottom fishing with lures.

So when do you go? Take a look at the chart below reflecting some of the best time to catch each of these fish.

Again, it's important to note that the availability of these fish can vary depending on the time of year and the specific location in the Keys, so it's always a good idea to check with local guides and experts to find out where and when to target these fish.