ISLAMORADA FISHING REPORT - May 17, 2025

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Saturday morning fishing update for Islamorada. The sun rose about an hour ago, and we're looking at another beautiful day in paradise.

Weather's been cooperating nicely this week, with calm waters perfect for getting out on the flats or heading offshore. We're expecting highs in the mid-80s today with light easterly winds, making for ideal fishing conditions throughout the day until sunset around 8 PM.

Tarpon fishing has been picking up after a disappointing April. The backcountry areas have been producing good numbers of tarpon over the past couple weeks, with anglers reporting 6-10 bites per day when putting in the work and getting out early[2]. If you're after the silver king, consider hitting the backcountry spots rather than the bridges, as reports indicate the channel bridges haven't been holding their usual numbers.

Speaking of the backcountry, there's been a nice variety beyond just tarpon. Anglers have been landing good numbers of sheepshead, snook, and speckled seatrout in these waters[1]. For snook, try using live pilchards or pinfish around mangrove shorelines during the falling tide.

Offshore action has been solid with mahi-mahi (dolphin) being the star attraction. The Islamorada Hump and 409 Hump have been productive spots for boats targeting these colorful fighters[5]. While you're out there, yellowtail snapper fishing remains consistent despite some milky water conditions from recent winds[4]. Small chunks of ballyhoo or squid on a light fluorocarbon leader should do the trick.

For those looking for hot spots today, I'd recommend trying Long Key Bridge early for tarpon, though they've been finicky lately[2]. Another good bet would be exploring some of the wrecks just past the reefs where yellowtail and other snappers have been hanging out[4].

Tide-wise, we've got a moderate incoming tide through mid-morning, followed by a strong outgoing in the afternoon. This afternoon ebb should create some excellent opportunities along channel edges for predatory fish.

Live bait has been the ticket for most species, but don't overlook artificials like soft plastic jerkbaits for trout and snook, or small bucktail jigs tipped with shrimp for a variety of species in the backcountry.

Remember, if you're looking to book a charter, captains like Rick Stanczyk and his team at Bud n' Mary's Marina are dialed in on the local bite and putting clients on fish daily[3].

Tight lines and good tides, folks! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time.