Tarpon fishing in the Keys doesn’t compare to the plentiful, easy local catch
Traditionally, on the first day of the New Year, Elliott (my son), David (my brother) and I go fishing together. However, this year, I decided to go fishing for Tarpon in the Florida Keys. Silly me. The weather in the Keys has been awful and the Tarpon are kicking my butt. While I am not one for resolutions, I plan to stay home next year and fish with my brother and son.
Elliott and David report that fishing has been outstanding (of course, I think they are just saying that to make me feel bad). Cooler temperatures have Trout back in deeper water and the strike is very light (which is expected in January). They guys released over 40 Trout (take this with a grain of salt as I do not believe they can count that high) bouncing a MinnowZ Houdini across the bottom of deeper channels.
Elliott and David, also report that schools of Redfish are now patrolling the shallows. Elliott says “they are stupid easy to catch.” David says (to Elliott) “your Dad could even catch them.”
After releasing several over-slot Redfish, Elliott and David (reportedly) left the flats because it was just too easy. A 4” PaddlerZ Bad Shad on a 3/0 eighth ounce flutter hook was seemingly irresistible to the shallow water Reds.
As for me in the Florida Keys, no Tarpon (yet) and ridicule from back home. I guess that’s what happens when you break with tradition. Take it from me. Don’t break with tradition.
Contact Capt. Greg at: captgregp@gmail.com and (843) 224-0099.