Good morning anglers, Artificial Lure here with your Islamorada fishing report for April 23, 2025.

The day is starting out beautifully in the Keys. Sunrise came around 6:51 AM and we are looking at a sunset tonight at 7:49 PM, giving us a full day to get on the water and chase some fish. Tides are on the milder side today, meaning current movement won’t be as strong as some days, but that can make for great sight fishing, especially in the backcountry. Your next high tide rolls in at 8:10 AM, with the next low set for this afternoon, so plan your inshore trips around that morning push when bait and predators are on the move.

Weather is looking classic springtime Keys – light winds, mostly clear skies, and steady temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s. Water clarity should be good on the oceanside flats as well as inside Florida Bay.

Inshore, the snook bite has been solid this week with most fish pushing up around the mangroves and island points at higher tide. Live pilchards and shrimp are working, but don’t overlook a good paddle tail soft plastic or a gold spoon early in the morning for a reaction bite. There’s been a push of speckled trout and mangrove snapper in the bays, and anglers drifting live shrimp under popping corks are reporting steady action and some nice keeper trout mixed in.

Tarpon are still making their presence known around the bridges, especially at the Channel 2 and Channel 5 spans during the evening outgoing tide. Live mullet and crabs are top picks, but guys throwing big swim baits are also hooking up. You’ll want to beef up your tackle for these silver kings.

Offshore, dolphin (mahi-mahi) reports are picking up, particularly past the 600-foot line. Trolling ballyhoo or bonita strips around floating debris or weed lines has put some nice gaffers in the box. Blackfin tuna and a few sailfish are being caught on the edge too, especially by those slow trolling live baits or jigging over humps like the Islamorada and 409.

If you’re looking for a spot to target, try the flats around Snake Creek in the morning for bones and permit or out to Alligator Reef for a shot at snapper and even some late-season grouper.

Today’s best bet for lures is a white or silver paddle tail for snook and trout, and big bucktail jigs for tarpon. Live pilchards, mullet, and shrimp are your go-to baits.

Fishing is always changing here in the Islands, but with these tides and this weather, you’re in for a solid day on the water. Tight lines and see you out there.

Good morning from beautiful Islamorada, this is Artificial Lure with your April 21 fishing report for the Upper Keys. Today’s sunrise was at 6:54 am and we’ll see sunset at 7:47 pm, giving us plenty of daylight for some great action on the water. We’re on a mild tide schedule with low tide at 1:00 am and again at 11:46 am, and high tides rolling in at 6:42 am and 5:21 pm. The tidal swings are pretty gentle today, which means lighter currents, ideal for targeting finicky fish that get spooky when the water’s ripping[4][5].

Weather’s looking friendly: expect light southeast winds, warm air in the mid-70s to low-80s, and mostly clear skies. This is classic springtime in the Keys, perfect for getting after the backcountry species or heading offshore if you want something bigger.

Reports from the past few days have been very solid across Islamorada. In the backcountry and around the bridges, there’s been a steady bite on mangrove snapper, sea trout, and a few snook mixed in. Live shrimp or pilchards under popping corks are top choices, but if you’re like me and love artificials, try a 3-inch white paddle tail or chartreuse jerk bait for the snook and trout they’ve been hitting them hard during moving water times.

Around the reefs and wrecks, yellowtail snapper are firing up, especially in the late afternoon as that high tide peaks. Chum slicks are drawing up some big flags. Fish small chunks of cut ballyhoo or squid on light tackle for best results. Grouper are starting to show, though remember to check the current regulations before dropping your lines.

Offshore, the dolphin (mahi-mahi) bite is heating up as the sargassum lines stack up in blue water. Trolled skirted ballyhoo and bright feather lures are working, and weedlines around 400 to 700 feet are putting up steady catches. There have also been reports of some blackfin tuna closer in, especially around the humps, so have a vertical jig or a small live blue runner ready if you run across some birds working.

Today’s hot spots include the Channel Two Bridge for snapper and the Alligator Reef Lighthouse for yellowtails and the occasional mutton. Inshore, the channels between Upper and Lower Matecumbe are holding good numbers of trout and scattered redfish.

Whether you’re working artificials or soaking live bait, today’s conditions are prime for a bend in your rod. Just keep an eye on the gentle tides and time your fishing around dawn, dusk, and the incoming high waters for the best action. Tight lines and see you on the water!

Good morning from Islamorada, this is Artificial Lure with your fishing report for Sunday, April 20, 2025. If you’re itching to hit the water, you’ll want today’s scoop.

Weather this morning came in hot and sticky, already feeling like summer even before the sun peeked up. Winds have been stubbornly up, especially in the backcountry and on the flats. We’re seeing those classic April breezes that can make for challenging casting, especially on fly, but the water temps are finally in that sweet spot—just what our local gamefish crave.

Tide-wise, we’re on a mid-ebb this morning, swinging to a low just after midday, then building back to a solid incoming this afternoon: classic for getting those predators moving, especially in the channels and around the bridges.

Sunrise was just before 7am, and sunset will be a touch after 7:40pm. That gives you a generous window, and the bite’s been best during the first light and that classic evening golden hour.

Out on the water, it’s springtime mixed bag mayhem. The tarpon bite is officially in full swing, though you still have to put in some work for them. No wall-to-wall rolling fish yet, but patient anglers are jumping a few a day, with some fish in the 30- to 60-pound range, especially around the edges of the channels and bridges. Nighttime trips for the silver king are only getting better as temperatures stabilize and bait thickens up along shadow lines. On the fly, you’ll need to earn it, as the wind has made presentations tough. Look for windows of lighter breeze to get your shot.

Backcountry and Everglades trips are hot right now for snook, redfish, speckled trout, and jacks. Plenty of aggressive Spanish mackerel, kingfish, cobia, and big sharks still holding in the Gulf. Mixed sizes of snapper showing up too, especially on moving water around the mangroves and Gulf edge.

Bait of choice—if you can get live mullet, you’ll do well for tarpon and big snook. Pinfish and pilchards are also money. Artificials that have been working include soft plastics like DOA shrimp and paddle tails in natural hues, plus silver spoons and topwater plugs for early morning excitement. For fly anglers, think black-and-purple, or white-and-chartreuse tarpon bunnies, but bring your best casting game.

Hot spots right now include the Channel Two and Channel Five bridges for tarpon and snapper, and the Snake Bight backcountry for snook, reds, and trout. Bud n’ Mary’s channel edges have held a few trophy fish, too.

All in all, it’s shaping up for classic April action in the Keys. Tight lines and see you out there!

Good morning from Islamorada, this is Artificial Lure bringing you your fishing report for Saturday, April 19, 2025. We’re kicking off the weekend with mild weather and classic spring conditions here in the Upper Keys. The sun rose at 6:56 AM and will set at 7:47 PM, so there’s a good long window to get lines wet today.

Tidal movement is moderate, with a high tide early at 4:07 AM, a low at 8:58 AM, another high at 2:59 PM, and a final low just before midnight at 11:49 PM. Tidal coefficients are on the low side, which means water movement isn’t as dramatic today, so you’ll want to key in on deeper cuts and areas where current naturally concentrates bait[4][5].

The weather is mostly clear with light southeast winds and temps in the upper seventies, perfect for getting after some of the resident and migratory species lighting up our waters right now.

Offshore, the mahi-mahi bite has stayed consistent, with fish being caught in the 400 to 800 foot range, especially under frigate birds and floating debris. Schoolies and a few slammers have been hitting trolled rigged ballyhoo and brightly colored skirted lures. Blackfin tuna have also been showing around the humps, with butterfly jigs and live pilchards producing best.

Back inshore, the patch reefs and bridge channels are holding solid numbers of mangrove snapper, with live shrimp and pilchards working best. Plenty of slot-size yellowtails are being pulled from the deeper patch reefs on cut bait or small jigs tipped with squid. Tarpon action remains strong around the bridges at dusk and after dark—large live mullet, crabs, or swimbaits are the ticket for these silver kings right now.

The flats are lively, with bonefish and permit nosing around during the higher tides. Small live crabs or shrimp, or even bonefish jigs, are all reliable offerings. Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for poling the flats, as the midday sun can make the fish a bit warier.

If you’re looking for hot spots, check out the channels around Channel Two and Channel Five bridges—both for tarpon and snapper action. Out on the oceanside, Alligator Reef continues to be productive for yellowtail and mutton snapper. For those targeting bonefish, the flats off Lower Matecumbe Key have been especially active on the last two incoming tides.

Best baits today offshore are live pilchards and ballyhoo, while shrimp, pilchards, and crabs are the top choice inshore and on the flats. For lures, try bucktail jigs tipped with bait for snapper, and swimbaits or big soft plastics for tarpon.

That’s the latest from Islamorada. Tight lines and good luck out there!

Good morning, anglers. This is Artificial Lure checking in with your Islamorada fishing report for Friday, April 18, 2025. We’ve got a classic Florida Keys spring setup: warming water, steady action, and a strong tidal swing to fire up the bite.

The sun rose at 6:57 a.m. and will set at 7:46 p.m. Tides are lively today, with a high at 3:06 a.m., a low at 8:24 a.m., another high at 2:08 p.m., and low again at 10:43 p.m. That tidal coefficient is up at 85, so expect some strong currents, which usually gets the fish feeding, especially around bridges and channel edges[6][10].

Weather-wise, we’re looking at breezy conditions—winds popping 15 to 20 knots and gusting at times, which can make things sporty out there. Skies are mostly clear, with air temps pushing the low to mid 80s by afternoon[1][2]. That wind’s been a theme the past week, so plan accordingly and look for leeward shorelines or the backcountry to get some relief.

Now for the fish. Tarpon are the headliners as always this time of year, and while the bite hasn’t gone crazy just yet, guides are finding steady action in local channels and bridges, especially early and late in the day. Most boats are picking off a couple of tarpon each trip, with a mix of live mullet and dead bait doing the trick. Some days you’ll have to put in work and bounce around, but persistence is paying off[1][5]. Make sure your tackle is in order—these fish are averaging 40 to 100 pounds.

The backcountry has been giving up a nice variety—snook, speckled trout, sheepshead, and the occasional redfish are all in play, especially if you tuck in behind the islands and mangroves out of the wind. Small jigs tipped with shrimp, live pilchards, or artificial paddle tails have been hot for snook and trout[3][4][7]. Those channels and bridge pilings are also holding big jacks, mangrove snapper, and nurse sharks if you want to bend a rod on something hefty.

Best baits right now? For tarpon, live mullet or a chunk of fresh mullet can’t be beat, especially at first and last light. For snook and trout, go with soft plastics, bucktail jigs, or live shrimp. If you’re bridge fishing, don’t hesitate to throw a pinfish or large pilchard on the bottom.

Hot spots today: Channel 2 Bridge and Long Key Bridge are both holding tarpon, snapper, and jacks[7][8]. For classic backcountry action, hit the shorelines and flats in Florida Bay or run up into Everglades National Park—look for leeward points and creek mouths[8].

Summing up: You’ll have to work for some bites but the action is there if you stay mobile and time those tides. Tarpon are the stars right now, but don’t overlook the variety in the bay if the wind kicks up. Tight lines and see you on the water.

Good morning from Islamorada, this is Artificial Lure with your Wednesday, April 16th fishing report. We’ve got a classic spring day on tap here in the Sportfishing Capital of the World.

Let’s kick things off with the tides. Today’s high tide came at 1:34 AM and will roll in again at 12:48 PM, with a low tide arriving at 7:35 AM and another this evening at 9:03 PM. We’re looking at decent tidal swings, so currents will be moving and fish should be on the feed. Sunrise was at 6:59 AM, with sunset set for 7:45 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to chase a bite[5].

The weather is holding steady with light west-northwest winds around 6 knots, temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s, and barely a cloud in the sky. Water temps are comfortable and the seas are gentle, especially inshore and on the reef, making it a perfect day for both flats and offshore runs[8].

On the fishing front, action continues to be strong across the board. Inshore waters and the backcountry have been producing big numbers of tarpon, especially in Florida Bay and around the bridges. The evening outgoing tide at channels like Channel 2 and Long Key is a prime window for hooking the Silver King. Pilchards and live crabs are your ticket for bait, and for the lure crowd, try swinging a DOA Bait Buster or Hogy swimbait right at the shadow lines. Bonefish and permit are still active on the flats, with bonefish responding well to small live shrimp or soft plastics; bring a light touch and stealthy approach[6][7][10].

Snapper fishing is hot right now along the reefs and patch reefs off Alligator Reef and Pickles Reef. Mangrove and yellowtail snapper are chewing, especially when the current moves. Anchor up, chum heavy, and use bits of fresh ballyhoo or shrimp. On heavier gear, some nice grouper have been reported near structure, but remember grouper season opens in May, so it’s catch and release for now[6][7][10].

Offshore, the Islamorada Hump is still the hotspot. Reports from the last few days have seen steady action on blackfin tuna, plenty of mahi-mahi, and some bonus wahoo landed by anglers trolling deep diving plugs or skirts tipped with bonito strips. Live pilchards and vertical jigs are catching tuna, while mahi are striking bright-colored trolling lures and rigged ballyhoo. Wahoo are being tricked by high-speed trolling with cowbells and black/purple lures, rigged with wire leaders[9][10].

A couple of hot spots to focus on today: the Channel 2 Bridge at sunrise and sunset for tarpon and snapper, and the Alligator Reef for non-stop snapper and the chance at a grouper. For offshore fans, make the run to Islamorada Hump and get your lines in for tuna and mahi before midday when the bite can slow.

That’s the rundown for April 16th here in Islamorada. Tight lines and good luck out there – hope to see you on the water.

Good morning, Islamorada anglers! Here's today's fishing report for April 14, 2025. Whether you’re headed offshore, hitting the flats, or working the bridges, there’s plenty to get excited about.

The weather today is favorable for fishing, with mild temperatures and clear skies expected. Winds are blowing at around 10-15 mph, which should keep things manageable on the water. Sunrise was at 7:00 AM, and sunset will be at 7:45 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to reel in the big ones.

Tidal movements are promising for fishing activity. The first low tide was at 6:50 AM at 0.13 ft, and high tide will follow at 11:39 AM with a height of 0.66 ft. The next low tide is expected at 7:50 PM at -0.1 ft. With a tidal coefficient of 85, currents are strong, so use that to your advantage near structure like bridges or reefs.

Inshore fishing continues to be productive. Tarpon action is picking up with better bites early in the mornings. Live mullet has been landing nice catches, and fly anglers should consider crab or shrimp patterns for these spooky fish. Bonefish and permit have also been spotted cruising the flats, especially around Florida Bay. Anglers have had success with live shrimp and small jigs for bonefish, while permit prefer live crabs.

Offshore, the bite is heating up at the Islamorada Hump, located about 15 miles offshore. Blackfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and the occasional wahoo are being caught. Live pilchards and troll baits, such as deep-diving plugs, have been delivering solid results. If you’re targeting sailfish, try slow-trolling live ballyhoo along the edge of the reef.

Bridges remain hot spots for a mixed bag of snapper, jacks, and the occasional tarpon. The Channel 2 and Long Key bridges are worth your time, especially if you’re looking to fish from shore. Yellowtail snapper fishermen should consider using cut bait with chum to draw in schools, while anglers targeting grouper near bridge pilings should drop live pinfish or grunts.

Hotspots to consider today include the Florida Bay flats for a shot at tarpon and bonefish, as well as Pickles Reef for solid snapper and grouper action. For those venturing offshore, the Islamorada Hump remains the top destination.

Tight lines, everyone, and may your drags scream all day long!

Good morning, anglers! Here’s your Islamorada fishing report for Sunday, April 13, 2025. The Florida Keys are transitioning into prime fishing conditions, so let’s dive into today’s updates and tips.

The tides are steady today, with the first low tide at 6:25 AM and the first high tide at 11:18 AM. The evening low tide is coming at 7:14 PM. Sunrise was at 7:01 AM, and you’ll have plenty of light till sunset at 7:44 PM, offering a full day to cast your lines. The tidal coefficient is high today, meaning stronger currents that should keep fish active and feeding.

Weather-wise, winds are settling down a little to around 15-20 mph after a breezy week. Water temperatures are inching above 80°F, quite favorable for species like tarpon, snook, and snapper that thrive in springtime conditions. Expect partly sunny skies with scattered clouds—great visibility for sight fishing along the flats.

Tarpon remain the highlight species this weekend. Anglers are hooking up with good numbers near the local channels and bridges. Live bait is essential—try pinfish, shrimp, or cut mullet. These baits have been hot, especially under popping corks or free-lined with circle hooks. Offshore, the Islamorada Hump is buzzing with pelagic action, including mahi-mahi, blackfin tuna, and wahoo, all hitting trolled live pilchards and brightly colored artificial lures. On the reefs, yellowtail snapper are schooling well; fresh shrimp or chunked ballyhoo works like a charm.

Recent catches reported include several tarpon in the 40-60 pound range, a mix of jacks, snook, and even a nurse shark or two from the bridges. Offshore, mahi-mahi up to 20 pounds and blackfin tuna have been consistent. The reefs are yielding limits of yellowtail snapper alongside a few grouper and hogfish.

If you’re looking for hotspots, check out Channel #2 Bridge for tarpon and snook action, especially during early mornings or nightfall. For offshore enthusiasts, the Islamorada Hump is your go-to for big-game fishing. Backcountry explorers should head to Florida Bay, where redfish and trout are cruising the mangroves.

Gear up with sturdy rods and reels, and don’t forget fluorocarbon leaders to avoid spooking fish in the clear waters. Anglers throwing artificial lures for tarpon have found success with swimbaits and jerkbaits, particularly those mimicking local forage like pilchards.

Tight lines and good luck out there today! Islamorada is buzzing with opportunity, whether you’re chasing the legendary silver king or reeling in dinner from the reefs.

Good morning anglers,

It's April 12, 2025, and Islamorada, Florida, is brimming with fishing opportunities today! Let’s dive into your fishing forecast to help you reel in the big one.

The tides today are favorable for fishing. The first low tide at 5:59 AM is already underway, with the first high tide expected at 10:54 AM. Another low tide follows at 6:39 PM, and the final high tide hits at 11:47 PM. Sunrise will be at 7:02 AM, with sunset gracing us at 7:43 PM, offering over 12 hours of daylight to make the most of the day on the water. The tidal coefficient is moderate, so expect slower currents, which can help with targeting specific fish species.

Islamorada’s weather is shaping up nicely, with mild temperatures in the low 80s, clear skies, and light winds. These conditions are perfect for both inshore and offshore excursions.

Inshore, the backcountry and flats are buzzing with activity. Tarpon, known as the "Silver King," are currently in their spring migration and can be found rolling in the shallows. Bonefish and permit sightings are also high, so grab your light tackle or fly rods for stealthy approaches. For tarpon, live shrimp, pinfish, or even cut mullet work wonders. Bonefish and permit will snap at small crabs or shrimp presentations.

Near the reefs, snapper and grouper fishing is in full swing. Yellowtail snapper and mangrove snapper have been biting well, especially around structures like Pickles Reef and nearby wrecks. Use frozen pilchards or fresh shrimp for the best results. Grouper season is closed for some species, so check regulations to ensure compliance if you’re targeting them.

Offshore anglers are chasing trophy fish around the Islamorada Hump, which is a magnet for mahi-mahi, blackfin tuna, and even the occasional wahoo or sailfish. Trolling with live pilchards or brightly colored artificial lures is your best bet. Reports indicate a solid bite for both mahi-mahi and tuna, so prepare for a thrilling day if you venture 15–20 miles offshore.

For those staying nearshore, bridges such as Channel 2 Bridge and Long Key Bridge remain hot spots for tarpon, snapper, and snook. Try fishing during tidal changes for peak activity. If you’re looking for variety, the mangrove-lined shores of Florida Bay offer redfish, snook, and speckled sea trout.

For today’s hotspots, the Islamorada Hump for offshore and Florida Bay for inshore action are fantastic choices. Pickles Reef is outstanding for reef fishing, and the Channel 2 and Long Key bridges offer easy access and productive waters.

Lures such as jerkbaits and swimbaits remain highly effective for mimicking local baitfish, while live shrimp, pinfish, or blue crabs will attract everything from tarpon to snook. Be sure to bring polarized sunglasses for spotting fish in the pristine waters.

Tight lines and happy fishing!

Good morning, anglers! Here’s your fishing report for Islamorada, the "Sport Fishing Capital of the World," for Friday, April 11, 2025.

The tides are shaping up well with low tide early at 5:31 AM, rising to a high tide at 10:33 AM, and back to low tide at 6:03 PM before the evening’s second high tide at 11:13 PM. Sunrise is at 7:03 AM, giving plenty of daylight for a great fishing day, with sunset at 7:43 PM.

Today’s weather is looking fantastic for a day on the water. Expect clear skies with minimal winds, which means calmer seas—an ideal setup for inshore and offshore fishing. Water temperatures are comfortable, likely in the mid-70s, perfect for encouraging fish activity.

The fish are biting in both the flats and offshore areas. The backcountry is alive with snook, redfish, and trout cruising among the mangroves. For the adventurous, the flats are seeing bonefish and permit activity—the perfect challenge for fly fishing enthusiasts. Offshore action is hot too; tuna and mahi-mahi are active near the Islamorada Hump, and those trolling with live pilchards or heavy trolling lures like cowbells are seeing great success. The reefs are producing solid catches of yellowtail snapper and grouper.

In terms of bait and tackle, live shrimp and pilchards are proving irresistible for species like tarpon and snapper inshore. Meanwhile, offshore anglers are finding success using trolling lures, live blue runners, and cut bait like ballyhoo for larger predators like mahi-mahi and wahoo. On the flats, small flies that mimic shrimp or crab are effective for bonefish and permit.

Recent catches have included impressive tarpons in the 80–100-pound range, 30-inch redfish, and a variety of groupers and snapper from the reefs. Offshore, there have been reports of blackfin tuna and mahi-mahi in good numbers, with some even hooking into sailfish.

For hotspots, check out the Channel #2 and Long Key bridges for a mixed bag of snapper, grouper, and tarpon—perfect for both early morning and evening fishing. For those venturing offshore, the Islamorada Hump, about 15 miles out, is a must-visit for pelagic species. Inshore anglers should explore Florida Bay, particularly the mangrove channels, where snook and redfish are abundant.

It’s shaping up to be a stellar day in Islamorada, so grab your gear and make the most of the superb conditions. Tight lines!