Accessibility, dependable weather, excellent accommodations and pristine water make Key West, Florida one of the top saltwater flats fishing destinations in the world. Few places can boast as much prime fish habitat where one can practice classic sightfishing with a chance of catching large, abundant gamefish such as the venerated bonefish, permit and tarpon.
For some anglers permit are considered the most coveted fly and light tackle gamefish of all to be found in shallow water. Permit always seem to know what they want, are constantly moving and ever wary. Upon first inspection of a perfectly presented fly, permit will often feign interest, only to turn away at the very last second. Once hooked however, permit are challenging adversaries, capable of incredible displays of power and endurance. The waters surrounding Key West have some of the largest and most numerous permit in the world. During a typical Spring day of sightfishing one can have many opportunities at hooking this flats phantom.
Witnessing firsthand a group of four to six foot long tarpon cruising through shallow water over a bright sandy bottom can be unnerving to all but the seasoned angler! When tarpon turn on a fly or lure "the take" and hook-up with one of these fish is truly an electrifying experience. Be prepared for a true test as for every pound of tarpon, there is often an equivalent of a minute of fighting time! These "silver kings" as they are often called, never cease to amaze, as they typically take to the air in spectacular displays of raw power time and time again. Key West, Florida once again reigns supreme as a destination fishery for tarpon. The Spring months are the peak time for taking migratory tarpon with fly and spin gear. It is common to see hundreds of these silver kings throughout the day as they course through channels and glide gracefully onto the flats.
Ease of access, favorable weather and clear, healthy water, teaming with a variety of gamefish make Key West, Florida a logical choice on any angler's fishing itinerary. Whether you are a newcomer to flats fishing or a veteran angler who has hooked and played many a tarpon but is still looking for his or her first permit on fly, let Captain Merritt White guide you on a productive, fun filled day on the water. No matter what we catch I guarantee an epic fishing adventure that will put a smile on your face!
Spring...in the Keys: Key West, FL
"Gunkholing: The term refers to the gunk, or mud, typical of the creeks, coves, marshes, sloughs, and rivers that are referred to as gunkholes. While not necessary, gunkholers typically seek out the serenity of isolated anchorages over the crowds of marinas and popular bays, and a minimal draft is preferred, since gunkholers tend to go as far up and into the gunkholes as possible, seeking ever more inaccessible destinations."
"We had a great time fishing with you in the Keys. The Tarpon are incredible fighters. Catching back to back 80 pounders is something that we will never forget. Great job getting us on the fish. Great boat, great equipment... great company!
John J. & Kurt Z.
Sheboygan, WI
"As a long time Key West fisherman, I have become accustomed to the "routine" of Keys fishing. Or so I thought until we were fortunate enough to enjoy a day on board your boat. Your expertise in the fishery and the techniques required for superb game fishing were so thorough that even a bad caster like me caught a twenty pound permit, on a flat, within sight of Key West!
Michael B.
Westfield, NJ
Site powered by: THE FLyBOOK, llc.
