After 20+ years fishing the Florida Keys, I've learned that timing is everything. The water temperature, seasonal migrations, and moon cycles determine which fish are biting. This month-by-month guide will help you plan the perfect charter and know exactly what you'll be targeting.
January: Peak Winter Fishing
January is prime season in Key West. Water temperatures drop to a refreshing 72–74°F, triggering aggressive feeding in many species. Tarpon are active in shallow flats, permit cruise the edge of mangrove channels, and mutton snappers school on the deep reefs.
Water Temp: 72–74°F
Conditions: Strong, cold north winds; clearer water
Tide: Incoming tides on flats; falling tides on reefs
This is when many charter captains, including myself, recommend quality fish finder technology to locate deep-water structure. The water clarity is exceptional, making visual hunting possible.
February: The Permit Window
February can be magical for permit. They move onto the shallow flats in large numbers, searching for crustaceans. Water temps range 70–74°F, and the conditions remain crisp and dry. This is when the most rewarding charter experiences happen on calm mornings.
📌 Captain's Tip:
February's cooler water makes fish more active. Plan your charter early morning and stay until midday for best results. Bring polarized sunglasses—you'll spot permit cruising the flats from 50+ feet away.
March Through May: Spring Awakening
Spring brings rising water temperatures (76–82°F) and the famous "Keys springtime bite." Tarpon begin their legendary spawning runs, grouper are active on wrecks, and mackerel arrive from the south. This is peak season for diverse fishing opportunities.
I recommend a charter with Captain Dane during April–May for tarpon rolling at sunrise. It's a bucket-list experience. The water warms to 80°F by late May, and night fishing for permit and bonefish becomes exceptional.
June to August: Hot Summer Months
Summer (82–86°F) shifts the action deeper. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, but the fishing can be spectacular early morning and at dusk. Tarpon are still around but deeper; grouper and snapper dominate the reefs. This is when sturdy fishing rods and reef-safe sunscreen become essential.
Water Temp: 82–86°F
Conditions: Hot, humid; afternoon storms common
Tip: Fish early mornings and late afternoons to avoid heat
September to October: Fall Recovery
Fall brings cooling water (79–82°F) and improved fishing as temperatures drop. Tarpon return to shallower structure, permit are active, and the beginning of pompano season signals excellent surf and inlet fishing. September can be rainy, but October is crisp and productive.
November to December: The Bonanza Begins
November and December (74–78°F) mark the transition back to winter excellence. This is when permit become super aggressive, tarpon are abundant, and the water clarity improves daily. The cooler weather means comfortable fishing from sunrise to sunset.
Many anglers consider this the second-best season after January. Plan a week-long trip in December for consistent, world-class fishing. The holidays make it a memorable family adventure too.
What About Spearfishing?
Spearfishing and free diving follow similar patterns. Winter (January–February) and late fall (November) offer the clearest water for spotting fish at depth. If you're interested in spearfishing in Key West, those months are prime. Grouper hunting is excellent year-round, with bigger fish in cooler months.
Moon Phases & Tide Strategy
Don't overlook the lunar calendar. Full moons create stronger tidal flows, which concentrate baitfish and increase feeding. New moons offer smaller tidal swings, making shallow flats easier to navigate. Spring tides (full and new moons) create dramatic tidal movements that trigger aggressive feeding.
Planning Your Perfect Charter
Here's my recommendation: book a private charter with Captain Dane during your optimal season. I tailor each trip to the current water conditions, moon phase, and your target species. Whether you want to hunt tarpon in January or grouper in July, we'll maximize your success.
Pack the right gear: bring a quality tackle bag, polarized fishing sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. We provide all tackle, but quality personal gear makes a difference.
Ready to Chase Year-Round Adventures?
Captain Dane knows every season, every fish, every pattern. Book your charter today and experience Key West fishing at its finest.
Book Your Charter