Big Pine Key, Monroe County, FL
Sunny
·
85°F
·
Feels 93°
Naples Premier Offshore Fishing Charter
Pattern day — fish are predictable. Work structure and watch the feeding windows.
Classic rootbeer-colored DOA shrimp imitation
Flats standard — works everywhere for redfish, permit, seatrout
Gold spoon with fiber weed guard
Essential flats tool — triggers redfish and permit around grass
10lb braid + 20lb fluorocarbon leader
Perfect flats combo — lightweight, sensitive, and powerful
Popping cork with live shrimp suspended below
Flats classic — commotion attracts fish in shallow water
Local Fishing Resource
Tarpon, permit, yellowtail — the most iconic fishery in the world
Open the Monroe County Cheat Sheet
Lutjanus synagris
Small snapper with distinctive yellow stripes and pink spot.
Local Notes: Bottom fish around the reef at Looe Key with small circle hooks and shrimp or squid.
Lutjanus griseus
Versatile species found from mangroves to offshore reefs. Excellent eating.
Local Notes: Hold tight to structure at Looe Key. Fish with light fluorocarbon and live pilchards in the chum slick.
Ocyurus chrysurus
Beautiful snapper with yellow tail and lateral stripe. Excellent table fare.
Local Notes: Classic reef fishing at Looe Key. Chum the water and freeline pilchards or shrimp on 15 lb fluorocarbon — these fish are leader-shy.
Rachycentron canadum
Large pelagic fish often found near buoys and wrecks. Excellent table quality.
Local Notes: Found circling the shallower reef structures near Looe Key. Live pinfish or eel on a circle hook.
Mycteroperca microlepis
Popular reef fish with excellent table quality. Found around structure.
Local Notes: Hold at the base of the reef structure near Looe Key. Live pinfish or cut bonito on a knocker rig.
Scomberomorus cavalla
Large mackerel species prized by anglers. Strong fighter found offshore.
Local Notes: Cruise the reef edges near Looe Key. Slow-trolling live blue runners on a stinger rig.
Trachinotus falcatus
Highly prized sport fish. Challenging to catch on flats and around wrecks.
Local Notes: Cruise the sandy areas adjacent to Looe Key. Sight-cast live crab for permit — patience is critical.
