Florida Keys Fishing Report: Sailfish, Redfish, Tuna, and Mutton Snapper

Islamorada Sailfly Tournament

• 🎣 The Islamorada Sailfly Tournament is currently underway, bringing together backcountry and offshore anglers.
• 💡 Anglers are using live ballyhoo for sailfishing, teasing them up without hooks before casting flies.

Backcountry and Offshore Catches

• 🐟 Captain Drew Merritt reported a giant redfish caught in the backcountry, noted as unusually large for the area.
• 🎣 Young Caden caught his first blackfin tuna while fishing with Captain Randy Tao.
• 💰 An impressive 18-lb mutton snapper was caught by Bean Sportfishing, with many pilchers being used as bait.

Fishing Conditions and Forecast

• 🌊 Cool weather has influenced fish behavior, with some reef fish being particularly hungry.
• 📊 The weekend forecast for Fort Lauderdale and Miami-Dade includes 2-3 foot seas and 15-knot southeasterly winds, with a 10% chance of showers late Sunday.
• ☀️ The Keys forecast also shows 2-3 foot seas nearshore and 3-4 feet offshore, with similar winds and a low chance of showers.
• 📍 The Gulf Stream's location is provided for anglers, with updates available on Saturday morning forecasts.

Safety Reminder

• ⚠️ All boaters are reminded to ensure everyone on board has a life jacket.