Key West and Lower Keys

Capt. Dexter Simmons
September 7, 2005
Key West - Saltwater Fishing Report

Tropical Winds Cloud Waters but then Clear to Crystal!

After a tropical storm passes it usually takes a few weeks for the waters to clean up to the Crystal Clear state that we are accustomed to here in the Lower Keys and Key West. This summer we have been brushed by Dennis and Katrina, two of the 15 named storms in the Atlantic Basin for 2005. Dennis came through around July 9 with 100 mph gusts. Katrina paid us an unexpected visit around August 25-26 with 80 mph winds. In between the storms, the waters cleaned up enough to fish for a few weeks, and the Bonefish were plentiful. Now we are seeing the aftermath of Katrina, and the waters are nearly clean again. So, anglers should venture to the Keys for some great September and October bonefishing!!! Those anglers in the know understand that the early fall can be the best bonefishing of the year with double digit bones of 10 to 15 pounds roaming the flats of the Lower Keys and Key West. These fish are monsters and can be best taken in the early morning or at dusk at a low tide stage tailing up on the grass flats. I like to use natural snapping shrimp or mantis shrimp patterns like my Sugarloaf Special tied on #2 or #4 hooks in olive, tan and brown. These flies are usually tied with weed guards to make stripping through the high grass easier. Contact Capt. Dexter Simmons by casting your net line to http://www.keywestflyfishing.com or by email to [email protected]. Happy Fishing!

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