2 weeks ago · Updated 2 weeks ago
Key West, located at the southernmost tip of Florida, offers anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities year-round. September brings shifting weather and water conditions, but recent reports show strong action across both inshore and offshore waters.
Weekly Catches
The catches below cover the last 7 days.
Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin)
Offshore action for mahi-mahi remains excellent, with reports of larger-than-average fish being caught. Boats running out of Oceans Edge Marina on Stock Island have been targeting these fish from the reef edge out to 1,500 feet, with the best catches coming between 550 and 850 feet of water. Productive areas include rips, slicks, and especially around seasoned floating debris that attracts baitfish and predators. Some debris are also holding wahoo. Captains are using their towers to spot weed lines, birds, and debris for optimal results.
- Larger-than-normal mahi landed offshore
- Best depths: 550–850 feet, especially near floating debris
- Occasional wahoo mixed in with mahi around debris
Tarpon
Tarpon fishing continues to be productive in the early mornings before storms move in. Recent catches include both juvenile tarpon and some larger fish, especially when the right conditions align. Anglers are finding success using pilchards and pinfish as bait, which have become abundant with the influx of baitfish brought in by recent rains.
- Juvenile and larger tarpon landed inshore
- Best action early mornings before storms
- Pilchards and pinfish are top baits
Bonefish
Bonefish have been a pleasant surprise this week, with many fish caught as water temperatures warm. Most activity is reported around tide changes, and anglers are finding bonefish active on the flats. The bite has been consistent, providing excellent opportunities for both fly and light tackle anglers.
- Bonefish active on flats, especially during tide changes
- Consistent catches reported throughout the week
Snapper
Snapper fishing remains steady, with mangrove snapper being the most commonly caught inshore species. These fish are being found around mangroves, channels, and nearshore reefs. Offshore, larger mangrove snapper are being targeted on reefs and wrecks. The influx of baitfish has helped keep the snapper bite strong.
- Mangrove snapper caught inshore and offshore
- Best areas: mangroves, channels, reefs, and wrecks
- Abundant baitfish improving snapper action
Cobia
Cobia are being spotted traveling near the surface in small groups or "wolf packs" of 3 to 5 fish. Reported sizes range from 15 to 50 pounds or more. These fish are often found cruising just below the surface and can be targeted with live bait or jigs.
- Cobia in small groups, 15–50+ pounds
- Best targeted near the surface with live bait or jigs
Permit
Permit have been somewhat elusive, with only a few fish reported. Anglers note that while some permit are present, they remain picky and challenging to entice. The best chances come during favorable tide conditions on the flats.
- Permit present but selective
- Best targeted during tide changes on the flats
Barracuda
Barracuda are active on the flats, providing a great challenge for anglers using fly or light spin gear. These fish are aggressive and can be found in areas where water temperatures have started to rise.
- Large barracuda active on flats
- Best targeted with fly or light spinning tackle
Weather & Marine Conditions
September started with significant rainfall, which cooled water temperatures and brought in large schools of pilchards and pinfish. The current forecast calls for easterly winds ranging from 5 to 20 mph, with a mix of sun, partly cloudy skies, and possible showers later in the week. Temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-80s throughout the week. Anglers have been fishing primarily in the mornings to avoid afternoon storms, which has proven effective for both inshore and offshore trips.
Fishing Conditions & Tips
The influx of baitfish has improved fishing across the board, especially for tarpon, snapper, and mahi-mahi. Early morning outings are recommended to take advantage of cooler water and avoid storms. For flats species like bonefish and permit, focus on tide changes for the best action. Offshore anglers should keep an eye out for seasoned floating debris, which can hold both mahi and wahoo. Live baits such as pilchards and pinfish are highly effective right now.
Regulations & Notices
Anglers targeting gag grouper should note that the season is open from September 1 through September 14, 2025 in Gulf state and federal waters, excluding Monroe County. The bag limit is 2 gag grouper per person per day (within the 4-grouper aggregate), with a minimum size of 24 inches total length. A valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License is required for all recreational anglers, and federal permits are needed for those fishing in federal waters.
For greater amberjack, recreational harvest in federal Gulf waters will close at 12:01 a.m. on September 27, 2025, and will remain closed until the next season opens in September 2026. This closure is due to annual catch limits being exceeded and is necessary to protect the population.
The commercial Atlantic mackerel fishery is closed from September 16, 2025, through December 31, 2025. During this period, strict possession and landing limits apply to both limited and open access vessels, as well as federally permitted dealers. These measures are in place to ensure sustainable harvest levels and compliance with federal quotas.
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Key West
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