If you're planning to hit the waters of the Florida Keys today, January 24th, you're in for a treat. The weather is ideal, with temperatures in the mid-seventies and gentle 11MPH winds, making it perfect for a day out on the water.
### Tides and Time
Check your watch, because the tidal conditions are favorable. Today, the low tide is at 00:06 AM and 10:23 AM, with high tides at 7:39 AM and 5:22 PM. Sunrise is at 7:11 AM, and sunset will be at 6:07 PM, giving you ample daylight to catch some serious fish[2].
### Fish Activity
The fishing has been excellent lately. Winter is a great time to fish in the Keys because there's plenty of bait around, which attracts a variety of predators. Yesterday, anglers were catching Yellowtail Snapper and Mangrove Snappers in abundance. Mutton Snappers, Amberjacks, and African Pompano were also common catches on the wrecks. Sailfish and Tuna have been spotted near offshore and occasionally on the reef, adding an exciting element to your fishing trip[1][3].
### Best Lures and Bait
For saltwater fishing in the Keys, effective lures include the 3-inch plastic shad by DOA or Riptide, and the ¼ ounce Johnson Minnow in gold or silver. These lures are weedless and have a single hook, making them easy to use and release fish. If you prefer natural bait, shrimp, small fish, crabs, squid, and clams are all good options. Cutting a mullet or pinfish into pieces and using them on a 3/0-5/0 circle hook can also yield great results[4].
### Hot Spots
Head to the reefs for Yellowtail Snapper and Mangrove Snappers. The wrecks are great spots for Mutton Snappers, Amberjacks, and African Pompano. If you're after Sailfish and Tuna, keep an eye out near offshore areas, as they sometimes venture closer to land during this time of year[1][3].
With the current conditions and the variety of fish available, today is a great day to get out on the water and enjoy some fantastic fishing in the Florida Keys.