Winter Fishing in Key West: Why It’s One of the Best Times to Be on the Water

Winter fronts bring the bait, and the bait brings the action. Best time of year to load the livewell.

When most of the country is bundling up for winter, Key West is entering one of the best fishing seasons of the year. The temperatures drop just enough to make the days comfortable, the water clears up, and a whole new mix of species moves in. If you’re planning a winter getaway or you’re a local looking for the perfect time to fish, winter in Key West delivers.

Perfect Weather for a Day on the Water

Winter here doesn’t feel like “winter”—it’s more like a long, breezy fall day. Temperatures usually sit in the 70s and low 80s, with cooler mornings and evenings that feel amazing on the water.

Cold fronts do roll through, and while they can bring some wind, they also trigger some of the best fishing days of the season once the seas settle. Clear skies, cool air, and calm water… it’s hard to beat.

Why Winter Fishing Is So Good

As the water cools, baitfish gather along the reefs, wrecks, and offshore edges. This pulls in a wide variety of predators and gives anglers non-stop action.

Here are some of the species you can expect to catch:

• Yellowtail Snapper

The winter months bring clean, clear water that yellowtail absolutely love. They get active and aggressive, making this one of the best times of the year for consistent snapper fishing.

• Grouper

Before the season closes (usually January 1), winter offers excellent grouper opportunities on reefs and ledges. They hit hard and fight even harder.

• Cero and Spanish Mackerel

Winter is mackerel season. These fish show up in big numbers, hitting lures and live bait with a ton of speed and energy.

• Sailfish

If you’re heading offshore, winter is prime time for sailfish cruising along color changes and chasing ballyhoo. Even if you’re not trolling, just seeing one is unforgettable.

• Mutton Snapper

One of our personal favorites and Captain Joels specialty's, mutton snapper. These are some of the best eating fish and they put up a great fight. We catch them slow trolling the reef with live bait.

Reef Fishing: A Winter Highlight

Reef trips shine in the winter. The clearer water makes sight fishing exciting, and the variety of species means your rod is always bending. Whether you're chumming for snapper or jigging around structure, the action rarely slows down.

If you’re new to fishing in Key West, a reef trip is one of the best ways to experience the winter bite without needing to run far offshore.

Tips for Winter Fishing in Key West

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your winter fishing adventure:

1. Watch the Wind

Cold fronts can make the water choppy. The bite after a front is usually incredible, but choose your days wisely.

2. Bring Layers

Yes, even in Key West! Early mornings and fast boat rides can be chilly this time of year.

3. Go Early

Morning bite + calm water = the perfect winter mix.

Final Thoughts

Winter fishing in Key West is special. Between the perfect weather, the incredible mix of species, and the steady action, it’s one of the best times to be on the water. Whether you're targeting snapper on the reef or chasing pelagics offshore, winter delivers excitement for anglers of all skill levels.

If you’re dreaming of clear blue water and tight lines while the rest of the country is freezing, Key West is the place to be.