By: Capt. Greg Poland
August brings the heat to the Florida Keys and while the temperatures rise, so does the fishing action in Islamorada and in the backcountry of the Everglades National Park. This time of year, the crowds thin out a bit, but the fish are still here and they are hungry. The early mornings and late evenings are key for anglers looking to beat the heat and get into some serious fish. Snook are active in the skinny waters of the backcountry and around the islands of Everglades National Park. Look for moving water and baitfish as that is where the action is. Live pilchards, shrimp, or well-placed soft plastics will get the job done. Tarpon are still hanging around the backcountry, especially in the deeper channels and creeks. Most of the big migrators have moved on, but resident fish in the 30–60 lb. range offer some great fights. Early morning rolling tarpon can still be found in the Glades which is a sight that never gets old. Permits are more of a treat this time of year and elusive as ever, but August does see its fair share of encounters. If you’re lucky enough to find a school, be ready with a live crab or a well-placed fly.
Out on the patch reefs, the yellowtail fishing remains solid. Early mornings and chum are key to bringing them up, and light tackle makes it a blast. The mangrove snapper are thick on the patches and edges, especially around the full moon spawn. This is a great time to stock up for the table. Offshore, it’s all about Mahi Mahi and August can be one of the last strong months for dolphin action before things slow down in the fall. Look for birds, weed lines, and floating debris in 400–900 feet of water. Peanut to gaffer-sized fish are the most common, but there’s always a chance at a bull or cow if you’re in the right place. August in Islamorada and the Everglades is all about timing, beat the heat, plan your tides, and you’ll be rewarded! It’s a great month for mixed-bag fishing and a chance to explore all this incredible area has to offer without the peak-season crowds.
If you’re looking to get on the water this month, whether it’s for tarpon in the Glades, snapper on the reef, or chasing dolphin offshore, let’s go fishing on my Contender, or I can jump on your boat and show you how we get it done!
Tight lines.
— Contact Capt. Greg at 305.393.3327 or
email gregpoland@icloud.com | Instagram: gregpoland
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