By: Capt. Bruce Andersen
Spring is now in full swing in the Florida Keys, and the month of April brings some truly exciting fishing opportunities. After a long winter, it’s great to feel the days getting warmer, the winds starting settling down, and so many of the types of fishing that we do heating up for the rest of the spring and summer season. Whether you enjoy offshore trolling, light tackle live bait fishing or battling powerful fish on heavy tackle, spring is a time when there’s a little bit of everything to look forward to.
One of the highlights offshore this time of year is the improving action for mahi-mahi and black fin tuna. As spring gradually transitions toward summer, we start to see more of these pelagic species showing up. Blackfin tuna can often be found around many of our “humps” or seamounts, while mahi-mahi begin to appear more regularly along weed lines and current edges offshore. As the month progresses, the chances of encountering these fish increase adding plenty of excitement to a day offshore.
April is also an excellent time for bottom fishing throughout the Florida Keys. The reefs and wrecks hold a wide variety of species, with mutton snapper being one of the most sought-after catches. Anglers can also expect great reef fishing action for yellowtail snapper. With favorable conditions and active fish, bottom fishing trips in April can be extremely productive.
For anglers looking for a serious fight, the deeper wrecks in 300 feet of water or more, as well as offshore features like the Islamorada Hump hold large numbers of spawning amberjack. These powerful fish are famous for their drag pulling power, and hooking one can test both angler and equipment. Amberjack are one of the hardest fighting fish in our waters, making them a favorite target for anyone looking to really bend a rod.
The action doesn’t stop there. The same deep wrecks and humps that attract spawning amberjack also draw in some impressive sharks. Large tiger sharks, bull sharks, duskies, and sandbar sharks often gather in these areas to feed, offering anglers the chance to hook into some truly massive fish.
If you’d like to experience this incredible spring fishing for yourself, I’d love to have you join me aboard the Captain Easy. April is sure to be a fantastic month on the water, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than right here in the Florida Keys. Whether you fish with me or one of the many great charter operations in the Keys, now is the perfect time to get out on the water and make some memories.
— www.captaineasycharters.com | You can reach Captain Bruce Andersen at Capt. Easy Charters, MM 85, call 305.360.2120 or email at: captbrucekey@comcast.net