Key West and Lower Keys

Capt. Dexter Simmons
September 6, 2000
Key West - Saltwater Fishing Report

"Natural Imitations" work best for Keys Bonefish

As we approach early fall, the temperatures will slowly cool into the mid 80's, producing strong pushes of Bonefish and Permit on the flats. As it is now, there are plenty of Bones and Permit available during the morning hours and there are also baby Tarpon in the channels and troughs around mangrove islands. Naturally, the best time to fish is during the morning or evening hours, before the flats warm up to 90 degrees.Here are some tips on fly patterns for Keys Bonefish. First, Keys Bones are larger than their cousins in the Bahamas. So you must use larger fly patterns that imitate the natural shrimp, minnows or crabs of the area. For the grass flats I like dark brown or olive clousers or "charlies" with weed guards in sizes 2 or 4. For the sand or hard bottom flats I like tan, chartreuse or crystal colors with lots of flash. The fly patterns need to be "buggy" imitations of the natural shrimp, crab, etc. Before you travel to the Keys for some great fall Bonefish and Permit action, call Capt. Dexter Simmons for a live report 305-745-3304. Tight Lines and Screaming Reels!

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