As of November 15, 2024, the Florida Keys are offering some of the best fishing conditions of the year. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Weather and Tides
The weather is cooling down, with temperatures finally dipping into the 60s, a welcome change from the recent heat. Expect partly cloudy skies with a gentle breeze out of the northeast. Tides are moderate, with a high tide around 10:30 AM and a low tide at 4:30 PM, making the mid-morning to early afternoon prime time for fishing.

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset is at 5:28 PM, giving you ample daylight to explore the waters.

### Fish Activity
Fish activity has been excellent, particularly in the backcountry areas of Islamorada and Key Largo. Snook and redfish are abundant, with many captains reporting shots at very nice-sized fish when the weather conditions are calm. Tarpon are still present around local bridges and channels, although their numbers are decreasing as the water cools.

### Types of Fish Caught
Yesterday, several captains reported catching significant numbers of snook, redfish, and even some large Spanish mackerel on bait balls in the Gulf. Bonefish, mangrove snappers, and hogfish were also caught in good numbers on the patches. Captains like Jim Willcox and Mike Bassett had productive days in the backcountry, targeting snook and redfish.

### Best Lures and Bait
For snook and redfish, live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or pinfish is highly effective. Artificial lures like soft plastics and jigs also work well, especially when the fish are active. For tarpon, fly fishing with streamers or using live bait like crabs or shrimp is recommended. When targeting bonefish, small jigs or flys that mimic shrimp or baitfish are ideal.

### Hot Spots
One of the hot spots right now is the backcountry of Islamorada, where you can tuck away in protected areas even on windy days. The Gulf side of Key Largo is also producing big catches, especially around bait balls. For reef fishing, the shallows along Key Largo are filled with healthy mutton snappers and mangroves.

Overall, November is a great time to fish in the Florida Keys, with cooler weather and active fish making for an exciting and rewarding experience. Just be prepared for some windy days and changing weather conditions, and you'll be reeling in the catches in no time.