Hey there, fellow anglers! Are you dreaming of escaping the winter chill and wetting a line in paradise? Well, look no further than the Florida Keys, especially in December! This string of tropical islands offers some of the most incredible fly fishing opportunities in the world. In this article, we'll dive deep into why December is a fantastic time to visit, what species you can target, where to find them, and some essential tips to make your trip a success. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Florida Keys in December are calling your name.

Why December is Prime Time for Fly Fishing in the Florida Keys

December in the Florida Keys presents a unique blend of favorable conditions that make it a prime time for fly fishing. First and foremost, the weather is simply sublime. Forget about blistering heat and humidity; December brings comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from the low 70s to mid-80s. This pleasant climate not only makes for enjoyable days on the water but also influences fish behavior. The cooler water temperatures trigger certain species to become more active and accessible to fly anglers.

Another significant advantage of fishing the Keys in December is the reduced crowds. Unlike the peak tourist seasons of summer and spring, December offers a more relaxed atmosphere. You'll encounter fewer anglers on the flats, giving you a better chance to stake out your favorite spots and enjoy a more solitary experience. This is particularly appealing if you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Keys.

Furthermore, December often coincides with specific migratory patterns of certain gamefish. For example, bonefish, those elusive silver ghosts of the flats, tend to congregate in larger numbers during the cooler months as they seek warmer waters. This increased concentration significantly improves your odds of hooking into one of these prized fish. Similarly, other species like permit, tarpon (resident populations), and various reef fish can be readily targeted throughout December.

Beyond the weather and fish activity, December also brings generally calmer wind conditions compared to other times of the year. This is crucial for fly fishing because strong winds can make casting difficult, reduce visibility, and make it harder to spot fish. Calmer winds allow for more accurate presentations and a greater chance of success. Overall, the combination of comfortable weather, fewer crowds, concentrated fish populations, and calmer winds makes December an ideal month to plan your fly fishing adventure in the Florida Keys. So, grab your gear, book your flights, and get ready to experience some unforgettable fishing!

Top Species to Target on the Fly

The Florida Keys are a fly fishing paradise, boasting a diverse range of species to target. Here’s a rundown of some of the most sought-after gamefish you can pursue in December:

• Bonefish: Known as the “gray ghosts” of the flats, bonefish are prized for their incredible speed and fighting ability. December is an excellent month to target them as they school up in larger numbers, seeking warmer waters. Look for them on shallow flats with sandy or grassy bottoms, and be prepared for a blistering run once hooked.
• Permit: These elusive and challenging fish are a true trophy for any fly angler. Permit are known for their skittishness and require a delicate presentation and precise fly selection. December can be a good time to find them tailing on the flats as they feed on crabs and other crustaceans.
• Tarpon: While the migratory tarpon season is typically in the spring and summer, the Florida Keys have a resident population of tarpon that can be targeted year-round. December can offer some excellent opportunities to hook into these silver kings, particularly around bridges, channels, and backcountry creeks.
• Snook: These ambush predators are a blast to catch on the fly, and December can be a productive month for targeting them. Look for snook around mangroves, docks, and bridges, and be prepared for a powerful strike and acrobatic fight.
• Redfish: While not as prevalent as in other areas of Florida, redfish can still be found in certain parts of the Keys, particularly in the backcountry and around shallow flats. December can be a good time to target them as they forage for food in the cooler waters.
• Barracuda: Don't overlook these toothy predators! Barracuda are abundant in the Keys and can provide exciting action on the fly. They are aggressive strikers and put up a surprisingly strong fight. Look for them around reefs, wrecks, and channels.

Each of these species presents its own unique challenges and rewards, making fly fishing in the Florida Keys a truly diverse and exciting experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to test your skills against permit or a beginner hoping to hook your first bonefish, the Keys have something to offer everyone.

Prime Locations: Where to Find the Fish

The Florida Keys are a vast archipelago, and knowing where to focus your efforts can significantly increase your chances of success. Here are some prime locations to consider when planning your fly fishing trip in December:

• Key Largo: As the first key in the chain, Key Largo offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The backcountry flats on the bay side are known for holding bonefish, permit, and snook. The oceanside reefs and wrecks can be productive for barracuda and other reef species.
• Islamorada: Known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” Islamorada is a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels. The expansive flats surrounding Islamorada are prime habitat for bonefish and permit. The bridges and channels are also worth exploring for tarpon and snook.
• Marathon: Located in the middle Keys, Marathon offers a mix of flats, channels, and offshore fishing opportunities. The flats surrounding Marathon are known for holding bonefish, permit, and redfish. The Seven Mile Bridge is a popular spot for targeting tarpon.
• Big Pine Key & the Lower Keys: The lower Keys offer a more remote and pristine fishing experience. The flats surrounding Big Pine Key are known for their clear water and abundant bonefish and permit populations. The backcountry creeks and mangrove islands are also worth exploring for snook and redfish.
• Key West: While known for its vibrant nightlife, Key West also offers some excellent fly fishing opportunities. The flats surrounding Key West are home to bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The channels and bridges are also worth exploring for snook and barracuda.

Within each of these general areas, there are countless specific spots to explore, from well-known flats to hidden backcountry creeks. Consider hiring a local guide who can provide valuable insights into the best locations based on current conditions and your target species. They'll have the local knowledge and experience to put you on the fish and help you make the most of your time on the water.

Essential Gear and Fly Selection for December

Having the right gear and fly selection is crucial for success when fly fishing the Florida Keys in December. Here’s a breakdown of some essential items to consider:

• Rods: For bonefish and permit, a 9-foot, 8-weight rod is a good all-around choice. For tarpon, a 9-foot, 11- or 12-weight rod is recommended. For snook and redfish, a 7- or 8-weight rod will suffice.
• Reels: Choose reels with smooth, powerful drags that can handle the blistering runs of bonefish, permit, and tarpon. Make sure your reels have ample backing capacity (at least 200 yards) as these fish can often take you well into your backing.
• Lines: For bonefish and permit, use a weight-forward floating line with a long leader (12-15 feet) tapered down to a fluorocarbon tippet. For tarpon, use a weight-forward floating or intermediate line with a short, heavy leader (9 feet) and a shock tippet. For snook and redfish, use a weight-forward floating line with a shorter leader (9-12 feet).
• Flies: Fly selection can vary depending on the species you’re targeting and the conditions, but here are some general recommendations:
  • Bonefish: Shrimp patterns (Crazy Charlies, Gotchas), crab patterns (Ragheads, Bonefish Bitters), and small Clouser Minnows in sizes 4-8.
  • Permit: Crab patterns (Ragheads, Velcro Crabs, Flexo Crabs) in sizes 2-6. Presentation is key with permit, so carry a variety of patterns and sizes.
  • Tarpon: Tarpon Toads, Apte Tarpon Flies, and various streamer patterns in sizes 2/0-4/0.
  • Snook: Clouser Minnows, Deceivers, and other baitfish imitations in sizes 1/0-4.
  • Redfish: Clouser Minnows, spoon flies, and shrimp patterns in sizes 2-6.
• Other Essentials: Polarized sunglasses (amber or copper lenses are best for spotting fish), sunscreen, a hat, long-sleeved shirt, wading boots or flats shoes, a stripping basket, and a camera to capture your memories.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different flies and techniques to see what works best. Local fly shops and guides can provide valuable insights into the most effective patterns for the current conditions. Remember, presentation is often more important than the specific fly, so focus on making accurate and delicate casts.

Tips for a Successful Fly Fishing Trip

To maximize your chances of success and enjoyment when fly fishing the Florida Keys in December, keep these tips in mind:

• Hire a Local Guide: As mentioned earlier, hiring a local guide can be invaluable, especially if you're new to the area or targeting specific species. Guides have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to put you on the fish and help you learn the local techniques.
• Practice Your Casting: Accurate casting is essential for fly fishing in the Keys. Practice your casting before your trip to ensure you can make accurate presentations in various wind conditions. Focus on casting accuracy and distance, as well as the ability to make quick, short casts.
• Pay Attention to Tides and Weather: Tides and weather play a crucial role in fish behavior. Pay attention to the tide charts and weather forecasts to plan your fishing days accordingly. Generally, incoming tides are considered more productive for bonefish and permit, while outgoing tides can be good for snook.
• Be Stealthy: Bonefish and permit are notoriously skittish, so it's important to be as stealthy as possible. Wade quietly, avoid sudden movements, and minimize noise. Wear muted colors that blend in with the surroundings.
• Be Patient: Fly fishing can be challenging, and there will be days when the fish aren't biting. Don't get discouraged; be patient and persistent. Keep casting, keep experimenting, and eventually, you'll be rewarded.
• Respect the Environment: The Florida Keys are a fragile ecosystem, so it's important to respect the environment. Practice catch-and-release whenever possible, avoid disturbing seagrass beds, and pack out all your trash. Leave the area as you found it, or even better, leave it cleaner than you found it.
• Have Fun! Fly fishing should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, take in the scenery, and appreciate the opportunity to be on the water. Don't get too caught up in catching fish; enjoy the process and the camaraderie of fellow anglers.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to having a successful and memorable fly fishing trip to the Florida Keys in December.

Conclusion: Your December Fly Fishing Adventure Awaits

The Florida Keys in December offer an unparalleled fly fishing experience. With comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and a diverse range of species to target, it's the perfect time to escape the winter blues and pursue your angling dreams. Whether you're stalking bonefish on the flats, battling tarpon in the channels, or enticing snook from the mangroves, the Keys have something to offer every fly angler. So, pack your bags, grab your gear, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. The fish are waiting!