Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Islamorada fishing report for March 19, 2025. Let me tell you, the fishing's been hot lately, and it's only getting better.
We've got a high tide coming in around 1:46 PM, hitting about 0.59 feet, with a low tide earlier this morning at 8:43 AM at 0.13 feet. The weather's looking mighty fine with sunny skies and a light breeze from the southeast. Sunrise was at 7:27 AM, and we'll see the sun dip below the horizon at 7:33 PM.
The fish have been really active lately, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. We've been seeing a lot of tarpon rolling in the channels, and they've been hitting live mullet and pinfish like nobody's business. If you're into artificials, try tossing a DOA Baitbuster or a Hogy Lure in the pearl white color.
Bonefish have been tailing on the flats during the incoming tide. Small shrimp patterns on a fly rod have been working wonders, but if you're using spinning gear, a small jig head with a shrimp-tipped Gulp has been deadly.
Offshore, the mahi mahi bite has been on fire. Boats have been limiting out in just a few hours of fishing. Trolling ballyhoo or small lures like Billy Baits has been the ticket. Don't forget to keep an eye out for birds working the surface that'll lead you right to the fish.
For you bottom fishing enthusiasts, the yellowtail snapper bite has been consistent on the reef. Fresh cut bait or small live pilchards have been working great. We've also been seeing some nice mutton snapper mixed in.
As for hot spots, I'd recommend checking out Alligator Reef for some great reef fishing action. If you're looking to tangle with some tarpon, swing by the Channel 2 Bridge during the tide change.
Remember, folks, the bite's been best when you're using fresh, live bait. But if you're sticking with artificials, you can't go wrong with a well-presented DOA shrimp or a Rapala X-Rap in the glass ghost color.
That's all for now, anglers. Get out there and tight lines to ya!