If you're heading out to fish in the Florida Keys today, December 19, 2024, here's what you can expect:

First off, the weather is looking great, with temperatures steady in the low 70s and mild winds, making it an ideal time to be on the water. The holiday season is in full swing here, and the town is lively and exciting.

Let's talk tides: Today, you'll have a high tide at 2:25 AM with a height of 4.17 feet, followed by a low tide at 10:31 AM with a height of -0.13 feet. The next high tide will be at 4:00 PM with a height of 2.27 feet, and the final low tide of the day will be at 9:41 PM with a height of 0.93 feet. Sunrise is at 7:05 AM, and sunset will be at 5:41 PM.

Fish activity is picking up as the cooler air and water temperatures push huge schools of baitfish inshore. Predators like Snapper and Grouper are active on the wrecks and reefs, while Tarpon and other gamefish are feasting on the abundant bait.

Yesterday saw a good catch of Yellowtail Snapper, Mangrove Snapper, and even some Grouper. For Yellowtail Snapper, the flat line method with bait resembling chum floating out of your chum bag is highly effective. For Mangrove Snapper, live shrimp or cut ballyhoo on a jig head work well in shallow waters. Grouper are biting on the wrecks and reefs, so using heavier tackle with live or cut bait is recommended.

Kingfish and Sailfish are also active this time of year, with December being one of the best months to catch them. Tuna are plentiful as well, especially in the deeper waters.

Hot spots include the reefs around Key West, where you can find a variety of Snapper species and Grouper. The concrete bridges and dock pylons are great for catching Schoolmaster Snapper. If you're looking for Tarpon, the backcountry areas with shallow waters are your best bet.

Overall, it's a great time to be fishing in the Florida Keys, with plenty of action and a wide range of species to target. Enjoy your time on the water