By: Capt. Bruce Andersen
July is one of the most exciting months of the year for offshore fishing in the Florida Keys. While the summer heat pushes many folks indoors, one of the best ways to beat the heat is to head offshore into the Gulf Stream. It’s definitely cooler out there than back on land, and the fishing is red-hot.
This time of year, mahi-mahi (dolphin fish) are the stars of the show. These brightly colored, hard-fighting fish thrive in the warm summer gulf stream current and are found under floating debris, weed lines and working birds. They travel in schools, and once you hook one, it’s game on—there are usually more nearby. Mahi fishing usually involves trolling, but once we locate the fish, we usually switch to light spinning tackle making them a blast for anglers of all skill levels.
Blackfin tuna, wahoo and billfish are also great offshore targets in July. Tuna often school near birds or offshore humps, where live baiting, trolling, or vertical jigging can produce fast action. wahoo or Billfish like blue marlin, white marlin, and sailfish can also be a surprise part of the catch on any given day when Fishing offshore.
Closer in, the reef fishing is outstanding this time of year, especially for mangrove snapper. These fish school up on the reefs during the summer spawn. With a little chum and light tackle, you can enjoy non-stop action. You’ll also find yellowtail snapper, known for their beautiful colors and tasty filets, as well as mutton snapper, a real prize for any reef angler.
On my charter boat, The Captain Easy, we’re always ready to chase down mahi, tuna, or wahoo offshore, or switch gears and fish the reef for snapper. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to enjoy a fun day on the water, summertime fishing in the Florida Keys has something for everyone.
I invite you to come out and experience it with me, or with any of the many professional guides here in the Florida Keys. There’s no better way to enjoy the season than on the water, catching fish, staying cool, and making 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