Backcountry Fishing Report

backcountry fishing report

Backcountry fishing report for December is full of excitement. I am Captain Chris Duncan of Native Charters with my backcountry fishing report for December. This is a great time of the year to get down to The Florida Keys; especially since we’re usually much warmer than anywhere else. 

Key West and The Lower Keys have some of the best flats and backcountry fishing in the world.  As the weather is starting to cooldown the fishing is starting to change into our Wintertime fishing. We get more activity with the cooler water with several species of fish to target. 

Capt. Chris Duncan – Native Charters 
Lower Keys Backcountry and Flats Fishing Specialist. 
www.nativecharterskeywest.com
305-399-6878

The tarpon fishing is year-round, currently we still have our our resident tarpon. This will continue to be active when water temps are above 72 degrees. The tarpon have been hitting surface plugs, live baits and streamer flies, for the fly fishermen.

The bonefishing has been good. They have been steadily available on live shrimp on a 1/0 or size 1 hook with split shot 8 to 10 inches up.   For more constant action when not stalking and hunting the main three, (Tarpon, Bonefish & Permit), the big sharks, Lemons, Bulls and Blacktips are tons of fun and are a great fight.

backcountry fishing report
Perfect Capt. Chris gets this shot of a Juvenile tarpon mid flight

We use a heavier setup when targeting these big bruisers like a 6000 or larger series reel and 80-100 pound rod.  Using 80 pound monofilament line to a swivel with about 6 feet of wire and a large 8/0 circle hook are what we prefer. A piece of cutbait or large Pinfish work great.

The Barracuda fishing is starting to heat up as the water temperature gets lower.  These toothy critters love anything shiny and moving fast such as a spoon or plug.  You’ll want some wire to keep them from biting through though.  We are catching some nice mangrove snappers, jacks and several other species in the mangrove creaks.  Fishing on the bottom has been working best for this.  A knocker rig is what we usually prefer and adjust the line size to the bite and water conditions.

Come to The Lower Florida Keys for some great fishing.. 
I am Capt. Chris Duncan of Native Charters..
I specialize in backcountry, flats and near shore fishing. 
I am located right in Sugarloaf Key with free parking
I can Also pick up at places in Key West.
Call Me Direct 305-399-6878
www.nativecharterskeywest.com 

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We are a collection of fishing guides and charters in the Florida Keys and Key West.. Our mission is to inform and invite. The Florida Keys are loaded with great fishing opportunities and great fishing guides that can take you there..