When the oppressive summer heat finally breaks in South Florida, I start planning my routes through the backcountry of Everglades National Park because I know the fishing is about to get absolutely incredible. The maze of mangrove creeks, pristine flats, and hidden ponds come alive with feeding fish as cooler temperatures trigger migrations and increased activity throughout the ecosystem. After years of navigating these waters, I've learned that fall represents the perfect sweet spot where comfortable weather meets peak fishing conditions, creating opportunities that simply don't exist anywhere else in the world. The vast wilderness of the Everglades transforms into an angler's playground where every cast holds the potential for something special, whether you're throwing flies or spinning gear.

What sets fall fishing in the Everglades apart is the incredible variety of species that become active as the water temperatures drop into that perfect range. Snook start moving out of their summer haunts in the deeper creeks and begin prowling the shallow flats and mangrove edges where they're much more accessible to both fly and spin fishing techniques. Redfish form massive schools that patrol the turtle grass flats, creating some of the most exciting sight fishing opportunities you'll find anywhere in Florida. Tarpon in the 20 to 60 pound range become regular residents in the backcountry, rolling and feeding in areas where you can actually sight cast to them instead of just hoping for a lucky hookup. The spotted seatrout fishing explodes on the deeper flats, and jack crevalle roam in aggressive packs that will crush anything you throw at them, making every trip an adventure where you never know what's going to hit your lure or fly next.

My approach to fishing the Everglades in fall focuses heavily on versatility because this environment demands it. I always have both fly and conventional spinning gear ready because the fishing situation can change completely from one spot to the next. When we're sight fishing to laid-up tarpon in a shallow creek, there's nothing quite like watching one of these silver kings slowly turn and eat a perfectly presented fly - it's pure magic that gets my heart racing every single time. But when we encounter a school of aggressive jacks tearing through baitfish on a deeper flat, spinning gear with topwater plugs or spoons becomes the most effective way to capitalize on the feeding frenzy. The beauty of the Everglades is that it offers the perfect platform for both techniques, often within the same trip, keeping every moment on the water exciting and unpredictable.

The challenges of fishing in Everglades National Park are what make the rewards so much sweeter. This isn't your typical guided fishing experience where we motor out to well-known spots and drop lines - this requires reading water, understanding tides, and navigating through a wilderness that can be unforgiving to those who don't respect it. Fall brings some unique advantages though, as the lower humidity and cooler temperatures make those long runs through the backcountry much more comfortable, and the reduced summer thunderstorm activity means we can explore deeper into the park without worrying about getting caught in dangerous weather. The mosquito populations also drop significantly, making those early morning and late afternoon sessions much more enjoyable as we work the mangrove shorelines and shallow flats where the biggest fish like to feed.

Every trip into the Everglades during fall season reinforces why I'm so passionate about fishing this incredible ecosystem. There's something deeply satisfying about hooking into a massive snook or tarpon in a place where you might be the only person for miles in any direction, surrounded by the raw beauty of one of America's most important wilderness areas. The solitude, the pristine environment, and the world-class fishing combine to create experiences that stay with you long after you've left the water. Whether we're poling through skinny water stalking tailing redfish, blind casting to mangrove edges for snook, or sight fishing to rolling tarpon with fly gear, the Everglades in fall offers something that you simply can't find anywhere else - the chance to fish in one of the last true wilderness areas in Florida while targeting some of the most sought-after gamefish in the world.

After decades of guiding fly anglers through South Florida's pristine waters, I can confidently say that fall represents the absolute pinnacle of fly fishing in the Florida Keys. From September through November, these waters transform into a fly angler's paradise, offering some of the most consistent and rewarding sight fishing experiences you'll find anywhere in the world – especially if you're chasing the Big Five on fly: permit, bonefish, tarpon, snook, and redfish.

Fall in the Keys brings a perfect storm of conditions that make fly fishing for these prized species exceptional. Water temperatures begin their gradual descent from summer highs, settling into that sweet spot between 78-82°F that gets gamefish fired up and feeding aggressively. The oppressive summer heat breaks, making long days on the water not just bearable, but genuinely enjoyable. Perhaps most importantly, the tourist crowds thin out significantly, giving you more space to work prime fishing spots without the summer circus.

The changing photoperiod triggers an instinctual feeding response in these species as they prepare for winter. Baitfish schools become more concentrated and predictable, and the predators follow suit. It's nature's dinner bell, and every serious fly angler should be listening.

Islamorada's reputation as the "Sport Fishing Capital of the World" truly shines during fall months when targeting these five species on fly. The backcountry flats and channels come alive with activity that will test even the most experienced fly angler's skills. Permit fishing reaches its annual peak during these months, with fish staging on the deeper flats and around structure in numbers that can take your breath away. These finicky fish become more aggressive as water temperatures cool, making them more likely to eat a properly presented crab pattern.

The permit flats around Islamorada are legendary for good reason. During fall, you'll find these silver ghosts cruising the turtle grass beds and sandy potholes, often in small schools that provide multiple shots per encounter. The cooler water makes them less spooky, and the reduced boat traffic means less pressure on the fish. A well-placed merkin crab or Del's Merkin dropped precisely in their path can produce explosive strikes from fish ranging from 15 to 40 pounds. The key is the presentation – these fish demand perfection in your cast, and the fly must land softly and naturally.

Bonefish populations in Islamorada's backcountry become incredibly active during fall. These ghosts of the flats lose some of their legendary wariness in the cooler water, making them more approachable for sight fishing. Schools of bones move onto the flats with the incoming tides, creating opportunities for multiple hookups. The famous "muds" where these fish root for crabs and shrimp become more predictable, and a properly presented Gotcha, Crazy Charlie, or bone jig can produce heart-stopping strikes. The cooler water allows for longer presentations and more aggressive retrieves.

Tarpon fishing takes on a different character in fall around Islamorada. While the massive migratory schools of spring and early summer have moved on, resident fish and smaller schools provide technical, exciting fly fishing opportunities. These fish are often more aggressive and less pressured than their spring counterparts. Rolling tarpon in the backcountry channels and basins can provide opportunities for sight fishing at its finest, with fish ranging from 40 to 100+ pounds. Tarpon flies like the Black Death, EP Tarpon Bunny, or classic Cockroach patterns produce consistent results when presented properly.

Redfish form massive schools in Islamorada's shallows during fall, often numbering in the hundreds. These copper-colored torpedoes provide heart-stopping sight fishing opportunities as they cruise the turtle grass beds and mangrove shorelines. The cooler mornings and evenings extend your fishing window significantly – you can start earlier and fish later without the brutal summer sun. A well-presented spoon fly, Kwan, or Redfish Crack can produce explosive strikes from fish in the 20-30 inch range. The key is approaching these schools quietly and casting to the edges to avoid spooking the entire group.

Snook fishing around Islamorada's mangrove shorelines and creek mouths becomes exceptional during fall. These ambush predators stage around structure, feeding heavily as water temperatures cool. The bite often extends well into the daylight hours, unlike the predominantly nocturnal summer pattern. Deceiver patterns, EP Baitfish, and Puglisi Baitfish can produce explosive strikes from fish ranging from slot-size to true giants pushing 40+ inches. The cooler water makes these fish more willing to chase a fly, allowing for more aggressive presentations.

Biscayne Bay in fall is a study in contrasts – Miami's skyline provides a dramatic backdrop while you're surrounded by some of the most productive shallow water fly fishing in the state. The bay's extensive grass flats, mangrove creeks, and structure-rich areas create a diverse ecosystem that supports incredible populations of all five target species.

The bay's renowned bonefish population becomes more active and predictable during fall months. These ghosts of the flats are less spooky in the cooler water, and the reduced boat traffic means less pressure on the fish. Early morning and late afternoon sessions can produce multiple shots at quality bones, especially around the bay's famous "muds" where these fish root for crabs and shrimp. Schools of 20-30 fish are common, providing opportunities for multiple hookups on a single tide. Small shrimp patterns, Gotchas, and Crazy Charlies work exceptionally well in the bay's clear water.

Permit fishing in Biscayne Bay during fall can be absolutely magical. The bay's extensive flats and channels hold good numbers of these prized fish, and the cooler water makes them more willing to eat. Look for permit around the deeper edges of the flats, especially near structure or current breaks. A well-presented crab pattern like a Merkin, Raghead Crab, or Flexo Crab can produce strikes from fish ranging from 15 to 35 pounds. The key is patience and precise presentation – these fish will test every aspect of your fly fishing skills.

Redfish populations in Biscayne Bay explode during fall months. Schools of copper-colored fish patrol the shallow grass beds and mangrove shorelines, often in such numbers that the water appears to be moving. These fish are aggressive and willing to eat, making them perfect targets for spoon flies, Kwan patterns, and other redfish-specific flies. The sight of a school of 50+ redfish tailing in crystal-clear water with Miami's skyline in the background is something that will stay with you forever.

Snook fishing in Biscayne Bay reaches exceptional levels during fall. These ambush predators stage around structure and mangrove edges, feeding heavily as water temperatures cool. The bay's numerous creeks, channels, and structure-rich areas provide endless opportunities to target these fish. Deceiver patterns, EP Baitfish, and Puglisi Baitfish can produce explosive strikes from fish ranging from slot-size to true giants. The cooler water makes these fish more active during daylight hours, perfect for sight fishing.

Tarpon fishing in Biscayne Bay during fall offers a more intimate experience than the circus atmosphere of some other locations. Smaller schools and resident fish provide opportunities for technical sight fishing in pristine surroundings. Rolling tarpon in the bay's channels and basins can provide shots at fish ranging from 40 to 120+ pounds, often with multiple opportunities per day. Large streamers, EP Tarpon Bunnies, and classic tarpon patterns produce consistent results when presented properly.

Fishing in Everglades National Park during fall is like stepping back in time to an era when all of Florida's waters were pristine and untouched. The park's strict regulations ensure healthy fish populations and an ecosystem that functions as nature intended, creating world-class fly fishing opportunities for all five target species.

The park's backcountry comes alive with redfish during fall months. Schools patrol the shallow bays and creek mouths in numbers that seem almost impossible in today's fishing world. These are wild, unpressured fish that fight with a fury that has to be experienced to be believed. The sight of a school of 50+ redfish tailing in six inches of crystal-clear water with not another boat in sight is something that represents fly fishing at its purest form. Spoon flies, Kwan patterns, and other redfish flies produce consistent results in the park's pristine waters.

Snook fishing in the park's countless mangrove creeks and shorelines is world-class during fall. These fish stage around structure and current breaks, ambushing bait with explosive strikes. The park's slot limit means you're targeting quality fish, and the abundance ensures consistent action. Deceiver patterns, EP Baitfish, and Puglisi Baitfish produce the most consistent results, though any well-presented baitfish pattern can be incredibly effective when fish are actively feeding.

Tarpon fishing in the park offers a more intimate experience than the circus atmosphere of some other Keys locations. Smaller schools and resident fish provide opportunities for technical sight fishing in pristine surroundings. Rolling tarpon in a remote park bay with manatees nearby and ospreys overhead represents fly fishing at its purest form. These fish range from 40 to 100+ pounds and are often more aggressive than their heavily pressured cousins elsewhere. Large streamers, tarpon bunnies, and classic patterns produce consistent results.

Bonefish populations in the park are robust and provide excellent fishing throughout the fall period. The grass beds and sandy potholes hold good numbers of fish, and the lack of fishing pressure means these fish are often less leader-shy and more aggressive than their heavily pressured cousins elsewhere. Schools of bones move predictably with the tides, creating opportunities for multiple hookups. Small shrimp patterns, Gotchas, and Crazy Charlies work exceptionally well in the park's clear water.

Permit fishing in the park can be challenging but incredibly rewarding. These fish are present in good numbers but require patience and skill to hook consistently. The park's deeper flats and channel edges hold fish throughout the fall period, and a properly presented crab pattern can produce strikes from trophy-class fish. The key is persistence and perfect presentation – these fish will test every aspect of your fly fishing abilities.

While fall fishing is consistently excellent, certain periods stand out for these five species. Late September and early October often provide the best combination of weather, water conditions, and fish activity. Water temperatures are still warm enough to keep all species active, while the cooling trend triggers increased feeding activity across the board.

November can be absolutely magical, especially for sight fishing. Crystal-clear water, comfortable temperatures, and hungry fish create ideal conditions for targeting permit, bones, and redfish on the flats. However, weather becomes more variable as cold fronts begin affecting the region, so flexibility in your plans becomes important.

Fall fly fishing in the Keys requires adapting your approach to changing conditions when targeting these species. Fly presentation becomes crucial as fish become more selective. The cooler water allows for more aggressive retrieves and longer presentations, giving you more time to work a fish. However, accuracy becomes even more critical – these fish demand precise casts and natural presentations.

Tidal movement becomes even more critical during fall months. The best fishing typically occurs during moving water, with the first two hours of incoming tide often producing the fastest action. Pay attention to wind direction and strength – fall brings more variable conditions, and positioning becomes crucial for successful sight fishing and accurate casts.

For permit, focus on the deeper flats and channel edges where these fish stage during cooler months. Look for fish in 3-6 feet of water, often around structure or current breaks. Patience is key – these fish can be incredibly finicky, but the rewards are worth the effort. Use heavier flies like Merkins and Raghead Crabs to get down to their level quickly.

Bonefish become more predictable during fall, following established patterns as they move with the tides. Early morning and late afternoon sessions are most productive, with fish moving onto the flats to feed. Look for "muds" where fish are actively feeding, and be ready with a quick, accurate cast. Small, lightly weighted flies work best in the shallow water these fish prefer.

Redfish schools become more concentrated and easier to locate during fall. These fish often cruise in large schools, making them visible from a distance. The key is approaching quietly and making accurate casts to the edges of the school to avoid spooking the entire group. Spoon flies and other flashy patterns work exceptionally well on these aggressive fish.

Snook fishing improves dramatically as water temperatures cool. These fish become more active during daylight hours and less finicky about presentations. Focus on structure and current breaks, especially around mangrove shorelines and creek mouths. Baitfish patterns stripped aggressively often produce explosive strikes.

Tarpon fishing in fall requires patience and skill, but the rewards are incredible. Look for rolling fish and be ready with a quick cast. These fish can be incredibly aggressive when feeding, but they can also be maddeningly selective. Large streamers and tarpon-specific patterns work best, and the presentation must be perfect.

Fly fishing the Florida Keys in fall for permit, bonefish, tarpon, snook, and redfish isn't just about catching fish – though you'll certainly do plenty of that. It's about experiencing one of America's last great fishing frontiers during its absolute prime time. The combination of incredible fishing, perfect weather, and reduced crowds creates an experience that epitomizes what Keys fly fishing is all about.

Whether you're sight-casting to a school of tailing redfish in Islamorada's backcountry, presenting a crab fly to a cruising permit on Biscayne Bay's pristine flats, or exploring the wild creeks of Everglades National Park for aggressive snook, fall in the Keys offers fly fishing experiences that will create memories lasting a lifetime.

The Florida Keys in fall represent fly fishing at its finest – technical, exciting, and consistently productive. It's why I've spent my career guiding these waters, and why I still get excited every September when fall fishing season begins. Come experience it for yourself, and discover why autumn in the Keys is truly special when chasing these five incredible species on fly.

Islamorada tarpon fishing stands as the pinnacle of flats fishing in the Florida Keys. Each spring, massive schools of tarpon migrate through the crystal waters of the Upper Keys, creating world-class fishing opportunities for anglers seeking their trophy catch. As a dedicated Islamorada fishing guide, I've spent countless dawns watching these magnificent gamefish roll across our pristine flats and channels.
The legendary tarpon fishing Islamorada offers attracts fly anglers from around the globe. From March through July, our waters come alive with silver kings ranging from 60 to 150 pounds. Whether we're hunting laid-up fish in the backcountry or intercepting ocean-side migrants, Islamorada tarpon fishing provides heart-stopping action as these prehistoric predators cruise within casting range of our skiff.
Florida Keys tarpon fishing requires specialized techniques, and as your Islamorada fishing charter captain, I'll help you master the skills needed for success. The Upper Keys tarpon fishery demands precision casting and proper presentation - skills I've refined through years of guiding in these waters. We'll target rolling tarpon with proven fly patterns, focusing on the prime feeding periods that make Islamorada the Sportfishing Capital of the World.
Tarpon season in Islamorada peaks during spring and early summer when crystal clear conditions make sight fishing most productive. Our Islamorada fishing charters focus on early morning and evening hours, capitalizing on optimal light and tidal movements that trigger aggressive feeding behavior. From oceanside flats to protected backcountry waters, we'll find the most active fish based on conditions and seasonal patterns.
As an experienced Islamorada tarpon guide, I invite you to experience the ultimate challenge in flats fishing. Book your spring tarpon fishing charter in Islamorada today and prepare for the fight of a lifetime against the legendary silver king. Prime dates during peak tarpon season fill quickly, so contact me to secure your spot and join the ranks of anglers who've discovered why Islamorada tarpon fishing creates memories that last a lifetime.

The holiday season brings some of the year's best fishing opportunities to the Florida Keys. As winter settles in across the country, our waters come alive with exceptional sight fishing for the coveted shallow water species that make this region famous.

Biscayne Bay to Key Largo offers prime conditions for bonefish, with clear waters and optimal temperatures creating perfect stalking conditions. These "grey ghosts" are actively feeding on the flats, providing some of the year's most exciting sight fishing opportunities.

In Florida Bay and throughout Everglades National Park, anglers are finding consistent action with snook, redfish, and juvenile tarpon. These protected waters serve as essential winter feeding grounds, concentrating gamefish in predictable areas.

With daytime temperatures hovering in the low 70s and crystal-clear blue skies, December's weather creates ideal fishing conditions. Whether you're poling across a pristine flat or working mangrove shorelines, the mild climate makes for comfortable days on the water.

For those looking to escape the northern chill, the Florida Keys offer the perfect December fishing destination. The combination of cooperative weather, abundant targets, and stunning scenery creates an unmatched winter angling experience.

Capt. Brett Greco

Come enjoy one of the most beautiful and diverse fisheries in the world right here in South Florida! Tarpon, bonefish, permit, snook, and redfish are all target species here in the waters of Biscayne Bay, Florida Bay, and the Florida Keys.

With twenty years of fishing experience in the area Capt. Brett Greco will show you an amazing experience full of drag screaming fish! We are currently beginning to book for the 2025 season and still have some prime time dates available. 

I still have some dates available in July and August. Summer is my favorite time here in the Florida Keys. Summer time offers up some of the best SLAM fishing opportunities of the year.

Tarpon, bonefish, and permit are abundant and eager to please with half the boats and anglers in the way. If you are looking for a great summer fishing vacation come on down to South Florida and enjoy some of the best fishing we have to offer.

This winter in South Florida has provided plenty of high winds and clouds along with some good fishing when Mother Nature permits. I’m finding a great number of snook throughout Everglades National Park and Florida Bay along with some redfish. The bonefish fishing has been strong in Key Largo and Biscayne Bay.

I still have some prime dates available in July & August. These are two of my favorite months to fish the Florida Keys with twice the fish and half the boats around. Come on down this summer and enjoy some of the best fishing the Keys has to offer with me. 

The weather has been challenging the past month but we’ve been able to find some great fishing on the nicer days. Everglades National Park has provided good action for snook, redfish, and black drum. Biscayne Bay and Key Largo have been offering up some good bonefish action on the sunnier days.

I still have summer dates available. Summer in the Keys provides the best all around fishing of the year. Get your July and/or August dates while they are still available.

Winter time is a great time in the Florida Keys! I am currently booking for December 2023 and the entirety of 2024. I still have some great dates available to target all the wonderful flats species South Florida has to offer. With average winter air temps in the low 70’s and abundant sunshine make the Florida Keys your winter escape for some fun in the sun! Bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, & redfish are all obtainable species through out the winter months.

The fishing in the Florida Keys has been great! We have been having good tarpon action on both the backcountry and oceanside of The Keys. Everglades National Park & Florida Bay continue to offer up solid fishing for snook along with a few redfish. I still have a few prime July and August dates available. Come on down and experience some of the finest sight fishing in the country.