Florida Keys backcountry fishing report

Posted on 9/24/2013
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Florida Keys backcountry fishing report October 2013

Hello everyone! Last weekend we enjoyed some great fishing in the Florida Keys backcountry. We worked some of the mainland and Island shorelines east of flamingo with great success. The water levels where pretty high and we where able to get the bay boat with the MinN Kota I Pilot to some really cool areas and a great bite. The bait of choice was small live pilchards. We caught over 20 big Redfish, Snappers, Jacks, Trout and a few Snook. We also caught a nice Cubera Snapper under the bushes which it's pretty rare. Overall had a fantastic weekend of backcountry fishing. Look for the area around Flamingo to be holding some Snook, Redfish, Trout and some big Sharks. The grassy areas close to First National bank will give you some decent action with Trout, Snappers and other rod benders. Live baits and artificial's will work great in this areas. 
Look for the big Trout bite to continue from Sandy Key out towards Spriger bank with some giant Ladyfish as well. Drift over grassy bottom next to banks with good current flow while bouncing artificial's like Berkley Gulp Shrimp or white Pompano jigs close to the bottom or under a popping cork for the best action. As we approach October the Gulf fishery will continue to fire up with more Cobia and Spanish Mackerel showing up specially around the wrecks and other bottom structure. Anchor up current from your favorite spot and begin your chum slick, live baits such as Pilchards, Pinfish and shrimp won't last long before getting eaten. Put a live Jack or Ladyfish Behring the boat on some heavier tackle for a big Shark or monster Grouper. If the water is dirty do to the recent westerly flow try finding a spot with cleaner water for better success.
Back around the local bridges and channels a live well full of Pilchards will keep you busy with all kinds of excitement. We have been catching some really nice Snappers, keeper Groupers, giant Barracudas, Sharks and the occasional Tarpon. So don't be surprise if after you get tight while fishing your bait on the bottom a big Tarpon comes skyrocketing out of the water. Anglers putting their time stalking the local flats and banks are getting multiple shots at Bonefish. Some also report good Permit sightings as well. The change in weather from summer to Fall and winter is around the corner and as soon as the water temperatures start cooling off a bit we are in for some amazing Florida Keys backcountry fishing. Good luck on the water,

Captain Juan Garcia