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Captain Ryan Carter here with your comprehensive weekly Key West inshore fishing report. The Lower Keys fishing scene continues to deliver excellent action despite the seasonal cold fronts rolling through the area.

The Jack Crevalle bite around Key West continues to be absolutely phenomenal. These hard-fighting bruisers are providing non-stop action throughout the harbor and surrounding flats. Topwater lures are producing the most explosive strikes – nothing beats watching these aggressive predators demolish a surface presentation at first light. The Jack schools are also attracting plenty of bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and ladyfish, creating fast-paced mixed-bag opportunities on light tackle.

The prized Cobia have begun slowing down as their seasonal migration continues past Key West. However, there’s still a window of opportunity to target these excellent eating fish before they move on completely. Anglers targeting structure and channels between Key West and the Content Keys are finding quality specimens. Live crabs and eels have been the most productive baits, though large soft plastics are also triggering strikes when worked near bottom structure.

Mangrove snapper fishing continues to produce reliable action in most channels and around the numerous wrecks throughout the Lower Keys. These tasty targets are readily taking live shrimp and small baitfish, particularly during the moving tides. Anglers focusing on deeper edges with structure are consistently landing quality fish in the 12-16 inch range.

While last week’s cold front temporarily slowed the tarpon action, the forecast southbound winds should create ideal conditions for targeting the silver kings. Warming water temperatures are bringing more tarpon into the Key West backcountry channels and basins. Early mornings provide the best opportunities as these prehistoric gamefish roll on the surface, revealing their locations. The spring migration is just beginning, with numbers expected to increase significantly in the coming weeks.

Shark fishing remains exceptionally productive across all Key West fishing zones. From the flats to the channels, multiple species are actively feeding. Jack crevalle and ladyfish have proven to be the hottest baits for inshore shark action. Blacktip, lemon, and bull sharks are the primary targets, with specimens ranging from 4-7 feet common on most charters.

The small wrecks in the Gulf of Mexico are currently holding impressive numbers of juvenile Goliath Grouper. These powerful fish provide tremendous sport on appropriate tackle. If targeting these protected giants (catch and release only), ensure you’re using heavy drag settings and equipment capable of handling their immense power, as these fish can grow to an astounding 400+ pounds at maturity.

For more information on current Key West fishing conditions or to book your inshore fishing adventure, contact Captain Ryan Carter.