From: 01/11/2021
To: 01/11/2021
Type of Water: Saltwater
Species: Tarpon, Bonefish, Snook - Robalo, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Spanish Mackerel
Happy new year to all! A very difficult 2020 has finally come to an end and we are all looking forward to a better 2021.
The winter time season is in full force in south Florida and the fishing hasn’t disappointed. So far, We have had a good amount of cold weather with northerly winds dropping the water temperatures into the low 60s and 50s. This has had the bonefish, permit and tarpon out of the radar but has sent the redfish, snook, sea trout and black drum to all the traditional areas we fish for them in the Everglades this time of the year.
The redfish, snook and speckled trout are species that tolerate cold water temperatures, and therefore, are the main fly targets from December through March.
There have been a few days when the weather has been mild enough for the b View more...Happy new year to all! A very difficult 2020 has finally come to an end and we are all looking forward to a better 2021.
The winter time season is in full force in south Florida and the fishing hasn’t disappointed. So far, We have had a good amount of cold weather with northerly winds dropping the water temperatures into the low 60s and 50s. This has had the bonefish, permit and tarpon out of the radar but has sent the redfish, snook, sea trout and black drum to all the traditional areas we fish for them in the Everglades this time of the year.
The redfish, snook and speckled trout are species that tolerate cold water temperatures, and therefore, are the main fly targets from December through March.
There have been a few days when the weather has been mild enough for the bonefish comfort and we have found them mudding and cruising in deep water.
Fishing for bonefish and permit this time of the year is iffy and totally dependable on the weather. That being said, If you want to plan a trip after these species, this is definitely not the best time for consistent opportunities.
For the best bonefishing and permit, you should be planning for the summertime (July, August, September, October).
Same applies for tarpon... they do not like cold weather with water temperatures below 70 degrees. Ironically, stellar days of fishing for big tarpon can happen during February/March and even as early as December and January. The deal is the same...you need warm spells of weather. Have a cold front come and the fish leave the flats immediately towards deep water. It only works out if you stay in touch with your guide and you are able come down on a really short notice, since weather windows are usually small.
Winters are different every year in Florida. We can either have a season with several, back to back cold fronts, or a mild season with few fronts. The fish will follow these weather patterns accordingly.
Highlight of the month was having legendary angler Norman Duncan on my boat for a day of fishing in the Everglades. Fly and tackle designer, Florida keys pioneer, innovator, knots inventor, conservationist. Norman is all that and more... a fine gentleman and friend who still lives ad breathes for fishing.
TARPON SEASON IS COMING
As now, about 50% of my days during April, May and June are already booked. If you want to have a chance to witness the best sightfishing on fly for tarpon in the world, get in touch with me and reserve your days while I still have availability. It is very hard or nearly impossible to find a reputable fly tarpon guide with prime dates open if you wait until late winter or early spring.
Give me a call and let’s go fishing!
Capt Alex Zapata
Flats fishing guide
IFFF certified fly casting instructor
Miami, Everglades and the keys
www.silverkingcharters.com
