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Key West Fishing Report - Offshore
Capt. Ralph Delph
February 22, 2006
Key West - Saltwater Fishing Report
Fishing has had it’s ups and downs over the past few weeks. Where there is high algae content in the water, the fish have not been present. Where the water has a bluish tint, fish have been abundant. The Gulfstream has moved in close to the reef down to the west and moves slightly offshore near Cosgrove, then in close again as it moves east. A few sailfish have been taken however most of the action is along the reef with ciro mackerel and yellowtails. The bottom action has slowed in the deeper water especially where the current is moving fast. Some large smoker kingfish have been falling for bluerunners along the reef line.
The Gulf is producing some nice catches of gag grouper and a few cobia have been reported around some of the wrecks. Mangrove snapper have been scarce, however live bait or shrimp boat chum will take a bag limit if you are persistent. Look for the large kingfish southwest of Smith Shoal as well as where Boca Grand dumps into Hawks Channel.
The big story is the large number of large permit that are moving into the area. Fish in the 30# class are common and they should be moving in to the flats if the water continues to remain in the 70’s. Sharks are starting to show on the flats and this will provide some good action for those looking for something big to pull on.
The harbor has had a little tarpon action so get the shrimp boat chum out and get ready for tarpon and some of those giant permit. This is the time for permit that push well into the 40# class.
That’s it for now. Tight lines and good fishing.
Capt. Ralph Delph
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