By: Capt. Bruce Andersen
July in the Florida Keys is one of the most beautiful times of the year to be out on the water. While summer temperatures can certainly be hot, the weather offshore is often far more comfortable than people expect. Light breezes, sunny skies, and calm seas are common throughout the summer, and there are plenty of days when the ocean looks like a sheet of glass. On mornings like these, the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys are breathtaking. What could be a better time for a day of fishing? Whether you’re heading offshore or spending the day on the reef, it’s hard to beat the beauty of a calm July day on the Atlantic Ocean.
Fishing during the middle of summer typically revolves around two main opportunities: offshore fishing for mahi-mahi and blackfin tuna, and reef and bottom fishing for a variety of snapper and grouper species. Both options can provide excellent action and offer anglers a chance to bring home some outstanding fish.
Offshore, mahi-mahi fishing remains one of the highlights of the summer. Throughout July, schools of mahi continue their migration through the Gulf Stream, and anglers can experience some outstanding fishing. These colorful and hard-fighting fish are always a favorite. Along with the mahi, blackfin tuna can also provide exciting action offshore, especially during the early morning hours. Whether trolling, live bait fishing, or casting to fish found under floating debris, offshore anglers have plenty of opportunities for excitement all summer long.
On the reef and wrecks, July brings the mangrove snapper out to the reef for the spawn. Many of the reefs that normally produce yellowtail snapper, along with a variety of other snapper and grouper species, become loaded with mangrove snapper. These fish often gather in big numbers, creating excellent opportunities for anglers looking for some fast action and a great meal. At the same time, yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, and several species of grouper continue to provide steady action on the reef and deeper bottom spots.
If you’ve ever wanted to experience fishing in the Florida Keys, July is a fantastic time to do it. There are hundreds of skilled captains and guides throughout the Keys who are ready to help you make the most of your time on the water. Whether your chasing mahi offshore, battling tuna, or catching snapper on the reef, come experience the excitement of fishing in the Florida Keys!
— 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