Hey guys this is Captain Ryan Carter here giving you the weekly inshore fishing report down in Key West, Florida.

With the calm weather we are finally seeing this summer, permit fishing has been absolutely phenomenal. There are still large numbers of these prized gamefish on the wrecks and reefs in both the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic sides. These fish are showing up in impressive schools, and we’re consistently finding them in 15-40 feet of water around structure. Make sure you have a tight drag with a heavy rod because there are some monster permit around—we’re talking fish in the 20-40 pound range—and you’re trying to keep them out of the structures and away from the sharks that patrol these same areas. Live crabs and small jigs have been the most productive baits, and sight fishing opportunities have been excellent during the calmer morning hours.

Tarpon fishing is still going strong and showing no signs of slowing down. We have seen the best bite lately on the incoming tides, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon periods. The fish are ranging from juvenile tarpon in the 20-60 pound class in the backcountry to some real giants exceeding 100 pounds in the deeper channels and passes. Live pilchards, crabs, and threadfin herring have been the most effective baits. The calm conditions have made it easier to spot rolling tarpon, and we’ve had some incredible aerial displays from these silver kings when they’re hooked.

Most of the snappers are headed to the reef to spawn, but there are still a few to be caught in the backcountry if you work for them. Mangrove snapper are holding around structure in 8-15 feet of water, and yellowtail snapper can still be found on the patch reefs, though in smaller numbers than usual for this time of year. Live shrimp and small pinfish have been producing the most consistent results for snapper fishing.

Barracuda fishing on the flats has been a lot of fun lately, with these aggressive predators providing explosive topwater action. They’re hitting large topwater plugs, tube lures, and strip baits with incredible ferocity. The sight fishing for ‘cudas has been particularly exciting, especially when you can watch them follow your lure before striking.

Lemon sharks have also been providing excellent sport fishing opportunities. We’re finding them in 3-8 feet of water on the flats, and they’re readily taking live bait and cut bait presentations. These beautiful sharks are putting up fantastic fights and providing great photo opportunities before release.

Overall, the summer fishing in Key West continues to be outstanding. The calm weather has opened up more fishing areas and made for more comfortable days on the water. Book your trip soon to take advantage of these excellent conditions!

Captain Ryan Carter