Key West and Lower Keys

Capt. Dexter Simmons
May 7, 2000
Key West - Saltwater Fishing Report

Preparation is the Key!

Preparation is the key to success with the mighty Silver King, Mr. Megalops, the Tarpon. It helps to have the proper equipment: 11 or 12 weight fly rod and reel matched for big-game angling, sharp hooks, strong leaders, and most importantly a practiced double-haul casting stroke that can shoot 60-100 feet of line accurately to rolling a cruising fish weighing 40 to 150 pounds. May has gotten off to a rather slow start for Tarpon on the flats. All we need is the wind to settle down a bit so the next push of fish will migrate in from the Atlantic and Gulf. The water temperatures are hovering in the high 70's. With a bit of southeast wind for a week or so raising the water temps into the 80's, the BIG PUSH will commence. Tarpon are on the mind and line of all anglers this week. Once you feel the power of the Silver King, there is simply no substitute. Except of course if you have a grand slam on your mind! And with the Tarpon fishing a little slow right now, the Bones and Permit are a good option. May is always great for Permit and Bonefish too, if you can tear yourself away from the Tarpon. Hardly anyone is fishing for the tailers on the skinny flats, so they receive much less pressure than the Tarpon. If you want some solitude away from the Tarpon Fever, go after the Bones and Permit!Before you travel to the Keys, call Capt. Dexter Simmons for a live report 305-745-3304. Tight Lines and Screaming Reels!

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