More about Key West Backcountry Fishing
In the Key West backcountry the shallow areas are called the 'flats' and the deeper areas are called channels. Most of the islands that make up the Key West backcountry are mangrove islands. These islands don't actually have much land mass to them so the water passes right through. This whole eco system acts as a huge estuary and are home to an enormous population of little fish waiting to be big fish. Feeding on shrimp, squid, crabs and whatever else comes through in the daily flush of tides. All the while growing up to one day move offshore. Fish the flats or backcountry of the Lower Keys for the predators. trout, redfish, bonefish, tarpon, permit, pompano, spanish mackerel, mutton and mangrove snappers, barracudas and 4 species of sharks. Our professional Lower Keys backcountry and flats fishing guides will take you to them all.
All year long is the best time to fish the Key West Backcountry. For volume of fish and different species the best time would be the winter. Our cast of species is greatest in the winter from November through May offering anglers that want to catch a bunch of different species an opportunity to do so. Tarpon fishing is also fantastic in the Key West backcountry waters, from April thorough July you can happen upon some tarpon that may reach 100 lbs. Tarpon fishing is a mainstay for a Key West backcountry Fishing guide. Booked solid is the way to be as it is our busy season. Book early if you have tarpon on you mind for your day of backcountry fishing in key West.
Many of our backcountry fishing guides in Key West use bay boats and flats boats as the platform of choice when fishing. Bay boats range in size from 21 - 24 ft as they are a little larger than a flats boat and some can carry up to 4 adults. fishing the backcountry requires no skill level as an angler to be productive. Our guides will show you the way to a successful day of catching species such as sharks, tarpon, trout, redfish, snook, pompano, spanish mackerel, jack crevales, goliath groupers and many many more. Some areas have higher concentrations of one species over another. Check with your local area fishing guide to learn about seasons and potential catches. Also you may reflect to our Species Seasons Page for more information on species of fish and the best area to go to catch them.
Your backcountry fishing guide is an expert fisherman himself and will be able to make the call as to what is best for your day and your group. Backcountry fishing is the most popular way to go fishing in the Florida Keys and Key West with it's diversity and ability to catch so many different species many people chose backcountry fishing simply because it is always calm and no chance of sea sickness. From the avid angler to the little guy catching his first fish backcountry fishing is the way to go for great results and a fun day.
Backcountry Fishing charters can be 4, 6 and 8 hours generally. Check with your fishing guides to see about what they offer. Private backcountry fishing charters here in Islamorada run from 400.00 - 700.00 depending on number of people and duration of the trip. Talk with your fishing guide about pricing. |
Tackle Options
Spin fishing with live bait and artificial plugs and lures is a typical set up for backcountry fishing. Your fishing guide will teach you the ropes to good casting and keep you in the fish. You can be as hands on or off as you like just as long as you are having fun.
Fly Fishing is also a great way to enjoy your day. Many fishing guides offer fly fishing and spin fishing gear in one trip with lessons as well to get your feet wet in the salt water fly fishing world.
Specialty Charters For Backcountry Fishing
Shark Fishing is a great way to enjoy the day backcountry fishing the Key West area. Encounter some bull sharks, lemon sharks and black tip sharks that get very large. On the flats the bonnet heads keep things rolling with fast light tackle excitement fun for everyone on board.
Tarpon fishing season runs from April through June and into July backcountry fishing guides and flats fishing guides get booked up quickly for this fishing season so booking ahead is essential. Most of our backcountry fishing guides book 4, 6 and 8 hour trips that can fit into your time schedule and can carry up to 4 adult anglers. Spin fishing gear is most popular type of tackle but be sure to check with your guide about fly fishing possibilities.
Fly fishing charters are also available in the Key West backcountry. Almost all of our backcountry fishing guides offer fly fishing charters as well as light tackle spin fishing. Just ask them they will be happy to set you up if it is available.
Bonefishing charters in the backcountry can be done two
ways, on a flats boat and on a bay boat. The bay boat is about
the only way to get 3 or 4 persons flats fishing for bonefish.
Flats Fishing is a technical way to fish the Key West Backcountry waters. Flats fishing guides of Key West have fished these waters all their lives with their pursuits and perfection of the tides sight fishing for bonefish, tarpon and permit.
Where to Stay in Key West
Key West is the last island on the chain of islands called the Florida Keys. Roughly 130 miles from Miami Key West has its own International Airport with connections coming in from Orlando, Atlanta, Miami and more. You dont need a car to be in Key West fishing or enjoying as there is plenty of local taxi support and getting a moped is not a bad idea. The island itself is only 3 by 5 miles getting around is easy.
Accommodations in Key West are vast.. Too many to list here.
Feel free to call Island Gen the Key West concierge to see about Key West accommodations. 1-800-477-4188
Island Gen handles accommodations for more anglers visiting than anyone in the Florida Keys or Key West. She won't steer you wrong.
Dr. Catcher |
