Cooler weather is becoming the norm this year in the Florida Keys. Right now, the inshore water surrounding the islands near Marathon is topping out at just 66 degrees.
That may not be ideal for snorkeling, so let’s go fishing instead!
Warmer Water Is Drawing Fish to the Reef Edge
The water along the reef edge is running about eight degrees warmer than the nearby inshore waters.
Many of the snapper, jacks, mackerel, and sharks that usually spend time in the shallow waters of Florida Bay are following the warmer water brought in by the incoming tide. When that water moves back toward the Atlantic, these fish often find themselves gathering around the patch reefs.
That is where we are currently finding good numbers of quality fish.
Snapper and Mackerel Fishing Is Strong
The patch reefs around Marathon are producing some nice mangrove snapper and mutton snapper right now.
We are also seeing a strong mackerel bite, including:
- Cero mackerel
- Spanish mackerel
- King mackerel
The grouper bite has also been good, giving anglers another exciting target while fishing the reefs.
Wahoo, Sailfish, and Blackfin Tuna
A few wahoo and sailfish have been showing up in water ranging from approximately 130 to 250 feet, just beyond the reef edge.
Blackfin tuna have also been making their way back to the docks in Marathon, adding another great opportunity for anglers fishing offshore and along the deeper edge of the reef.
There is not much to report on the mahi-mahi scene yet, but that could quickly change. We are planning to make the trip farther offshore tomorrow to see what we can find.
Where to Fish Around Marathon Right Now
For your best chance at finding active fish, stay close to the reef edge and spend some time working the patch reefs.
Do not be afraid to move around. Try several locations, watch the conditions, and give each spot enough time to see whether the fish are active. After a few moves, you should be able to land on a productive bite.
Or, skip the searching and let us take you directly to the action.
Call Sundance Sportfishing at (305) 699-8485, and we’ll take you to the hot bite!
