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Key West Fishing Report - Offshore
Capt. Ralph Delph
December 17, 2000
Key West - Saltwater Fishing Report
Since the last fishing report, the prevailing winds have been out of the east and southeast, and have brought with them, higher air and water temperatures. The water has been near 78 degrees and the influx of pelagic species that we enjoyed during the first two weeks of December, have thinned out and only and occasional sailfish and wahoo are being taken along with a few small to medium kingfish. The blackfin tuna have been cooperative over the deep-water wrecks and those chumming with live pilchards have enjoyed action on all tackle divisions along with the inevitable bonitos. The warm water has seen the presents of an occasional, medium size dolphin along the reef. Flag yellowtails are in good supply on the reef, but you had better be prepared to fight the sharks for each fish. Sharks have been plentiful wherever you find other fish. Bottom fishing has slowed, due to the strong eastbound current of the Gulftream. If you are persistent enough, you can still find a few muttons, and grouper, but expect to work for them.
Cobia have been reported far to the north in the gulf, however no cobia have made their way this far south as of yet. They should start showing on the wrecks in the area of the quicksands as the water cools. Schools of jacks have made their show on these wrecks and ciro mackerel are there in abundance. These wrecks can supply the novice angler with all of the action one could ask for.
On Sunday, a strong front blew in and winds to 30 knots out of the north will hopefully begin to lower the water temperatures again and we will once more begin to enjoy the winter fishing that we are all anxiously waiting for. This will surely churn up the water, reducing visibility, and improving the bite on the reef species. Look for the water temperature to hit the 73 degree mark and we should once more begin to enjoy the winter time action.
Flats fishing has been fairly good, considering that we are into December. Bonefish, permit, sharks and barracuda have been cooperative in the shallow water, however look for things to slow down as the water temperature drops. When the water temperature drops below 70 degrees, you had better start looking offshore.
That’s it for now. Tight lines and good fishing.
Capt. Ralph Delph
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