As of October 1st, the Florida Keys are offering some excellent fishing opportunities, especially with the onset of the Fall Bait Migration. Here’s what you can expect:

### Weather and Tides
The weather is transitioning with slight temperature drops and predominantly northeasterly medium to heavier winds, which is typical for this time of year. Sunrise today is at around 7:20 AM, and sunset will be at about 7:00 PM. Tides are moderate, with higher than normal tides reaching further onto the flats and bays, making it ideal for flats fishing.

### Fish Activity
The Fall Bait Migration is in full swing, bringing massive groups of baitfish down the coasts and into the Everglades and Florida Keys. This has attracted a variety of predators, including tarpon, snook, redfish, and black drum. Yesterday saw some epic days with larger snook and black drum being caught. Snook in the 12 to 18 lb range and black drum up to 25 lbs were reported, along with redfish and the occasional juvenile tarpon.

### Best Lures and Bait
For tarpon, using live bait such as mullet or pinfish has been highly effective. For snook and redfish, jigs and soft plastics like DOA shrimp or live shrimp are working well. The larger snook and black drum are also biting on light tackle with live bait or lures that mimic the baitfish.

### Hot Spots
- The backcountry areas around Islamorada are producing good results for tarpon, especially with the hour-long run to the further back areas.
- The protected areas of islands, creeks, canals, and shorelines of Flamingo and the mainland of south Florida are great spots for snook, redfish, and juvenile goliath grouper.
- The flats around the Everglades are excellent for bonefish, especially with the higher tides reaching new areas.

Overall, October is a great time to fish in the Florida Keys, with fewer boats on the water and plenty of fish activity. Enjoy the quieter season and the exciting fishing opportunities it brings.