Today, January 12, 2025, the fishing conditions in the Florida Keys are looking promising, especially with the current tidal and weather conditions.
First off, let's look at the tides. For Key West, we have a low tide at 2:47 AM with a height of -0.56 ft, followed by a high tide at 9:37 AM with a height of 0.79 ft. The next low tide is at 1:28 PM with a height of 0.29 ft, and the final high tide of the day is at 8:31 PM with a height of 1.97 ft[2].
The weather is typical for this time of year, with clear blue skies and mild temperatures, making it ideal for a day out on the water. Sunrise was at 7:13 AM, and sunset will be at 5:58 PM.
Fish activity has been robust, particularly in the shallow water flats. Since the Christmas holidays, the flats fishing has really turned on. Tarpon, though not yet in full migration, are starting to show up as the water temperatures rise. You can expect to see them more frequently as we move into the warmer months[5].
For now, species like snook, redfish, and various types of snappers are active. Snook are transitioning to their back bay and upper bay areas due to the cooler weather, and they can be found in shallow, dark mud-bottomed areas. They are feeding heavily on live baits such as greenbacks, threadfins, and shrimp, especially during the night and early morning hours[1].
Redfish are abundant around the back bay waters, mangroves, dock lines, and oyster bars. Cut baits like cut threadfins, pinfish, ladyfish, and mullet have been very effective. Live shrimp is also a go-to bait for consistent action on redfish[1].
If you're targeting snook, consider using flair hawks and soft plastics at night, and live baits during the day. For redfish, soft plastics and live shrimp are excellent choices.
Some hot spots to consider include the shallow water flats around Key West, particularly the areas around the passes and the backcountry waters. The beaches and flats in the upper and back bay areas are also producing good catches.
Overall, it's a great day to be out fishing in the Florida Keys, with plenty of fish to be caught and beautiful weather to enjoy.