9 NOV 2024 · If you're heading out to fish in the Florida Keys and Miami area today, you're in for a treat. The weather is finally cooperating, with moderate temperatures and light winds, making for comfortable fishing conditions both inshore and offshore.
### Weather and Tides
Today, November 9, 2024, you can expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s. Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 5:30 PM. Tides are crucial, and today you'll see a high tide at 9:17 AM and a low tide at 3:04 PM. Moving water is key for inshore fishing, so keep an eye on those tidal changes.
### Fish Activity
In the Florida Keys, the backcountry and flats are buzzing with activity. Tarpon, snook, and redfish are active, especially around the mangrove shorelines and near oyster bars. In Miami, the inshore waters are seeing a good mix of trout, snook, and jacks. Live bait such as shrimp or pinfish is your best bet for catching these species.
### Offshore Fishing
Offshore, anglers are finding blackfin tuna, amberjack, and dolphin (mahi-mahi) around 100 to 125 feet of water. Closer to shore, triggerfish, porgies, and snapper are being caught, with live shrimp being the preferred bait for these species. Spanish mackerel are also being spotted just off the beaches, so keep an eye out for birds diving, which indicates baitfish and mackerel activity.
### Best Lures and Bait
For inshore fishing, a popping cork with a 3-inch soft plastic lure like the Savage Gear Manic Shrimp is effective for trout, redfish, snook, jacks, bluefish, and ladyfish. Live shrimp or artificial lures that mimic baitfish are also working well. Offshore, live bait such as ballyhoo or squid can attract the larger game fish.
### Hot Spots
- **Florida Bay**: The backcountry here is great for targeting tarpon, snook, and redfish.
- **Key West**: The waters around Key West are known for their diverse fish population, including tarpon, permit, and cobia.
- **Miami Beach**: Just off the beach, you can find Spanish mackerel and other species moving quickly, so be ready to chase them.
Remember to check the latest FWC regulations and practice catch and release whenever possible. Early mornings and late evenings are the most productive times to fish, so plan your day accordingly. Enjoy your time on the water