Key West Fishing Reports
By Capt. Steven Lamp
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Key West Fishing Report and Newsletter for March 24, 2006

Dream Catcher Charters
Written by Capt. Steven Lamp

Capt. Stevens Updated Fishing Reports Click here.

Key I cannot say anything negative at all about the weather we are having this March except that I hope the hurricane gods do not notice the extra 6 degrees above normal water temps we are experiencing. Yes that’s right; our general water temps here in Key West are about 6 degrees above normal. I think it is because of a lack of cold fronts or maybe it has just been unseasonably warm. I am not sure I buy into the whole global warming thing though.  March is traditionally a windy month. As fishing guides we sit around the table after a long windy one and complain about the weather blowing twenty like a few old ladies talking about deaf old men.  We whine soooo much. Well this year is certainly shaping up differently.

          Like I said, the wind blows in March. I have often wondered, “What would the fishing be like if the winds were calm and warmer in March?” Well we got a chance to see what that would be like this past week and let me tell you, it was STELLAR!!!

Inshore Flats

Let me start off on the flats. Our flats trips here at Dream Catchers have been super. There have been plenty of shots and catches of permit and tarpon. One of our flats fishing clients last Wednesday fished his way to a Grand Slam. Tarpon on fly, Permit on bait, and four bones on fly! What a DAY! Other trips have been peppered with tarpon - permit, and bones - tarpon combinations depending on the luck and skill. All around flats fishing has been just awesome. Also on the flats you can count on some great Cobia fishing. I would say that this year it is the best I have seen, fish tailing off the rays and turtles and whatever else that they can find to hang out with. The fish are running in the 30-40 inch averages and ready to take a fly or live bait fast. More on Cobia later on the wreck and reef section…

Tarpon Fishing

          The tarpon are still consistently in the channels; however, in the last few days they are starting to show up on the flats for those tossing a fly. The tarpon are a mixed bag of locals and migrants with the migrants showing on the flats out west and back to the east backcountry. In the channels we are catching quite a few fish, some ranging in size upwards of 125 lbs, but most in the 40 – 80 range with big numbers. On some of my tarpon trips we have gone with as many as 7 fish to the boat in a 4 hour trip. Our evening trips are really going well with many releases, fishing 3 hours before sunset and one hour after.

All in Wonder Fishing Trip

          My new charter, the All in Wonder, is taking off with a bang! People are signing up for it left and right seeing the value that it offers for folks to catch as many different species as I can put them on. Here are some catches that we have had in the last few weeks.

          One 8 hour trip I fished with two guys and we were on fire with the tarpon, boating 7 fish out of 12 jumps. Fishing in the channels we were hitting them on live bait. Lots of fun. These guys wanted to pull on some other stuff so we went out to the wrecks and visited the kingfish as it was really calm that day. After boating a bunch of kings with the largest fish being 33 lbs on 15lb test we called it a day.

          Just yesterday I was fishing with a 10 year old girl and her dad. She is a current 12 time world record holder in the small fry division of the IFGA. Her day was very impressive as well. She totally worked over a 28 and a 38 lb tarpon by herself; she did everything needed to boat those two fish. Her dad was not as lucky as he missed two jumpers. Moving along in our day she also hammered a grey reef shark that was about 30 lbs, a 19 lb Permit, several lady fish, almost making her 13^th world record missing by a half pound, many Pompanos, an 18 lb Jack Crevalle, a bluefish, many more jacks, and some other various species of fish that I may have left out. None the less it was a fruitful day. We were supposed to fish today but got weathered out.

          Another trip that I had last week on the All in Wonder was tons of fun with 3 tarpon to the boat, and get this, 16 cobia off a wreck. Yep, 16. Most were very small fish but we caught one every time we drifted over and dropped two lines, the largest were 32 and 41 lbs. We then moved out from that wreck and proceeded to catch three Kingfish in the Gulf around 15 – 25 lbs and then found some baby black fin tunas and caught a few of them mixed in with some little tunnys. That trip was lots of fun for those guys. Flats calm day and lots of action.

As you can see the fishing is absolutely spectacular when the wind does not blow in March. But who can predict that? You just have to take your shot and see what happens.

The Forecast

I have to add that the water is warming up fast right now. Way warm for March. The offshore fishing (from what I hear) has been a bit off but the sails are supposed to be here soon officially marking our start of spring. I will expect to see the tarpon stay strong throughout the next few months with the migrants being traditionally on time and many of them if the weather stays weird. The permit are here now but could be gone soon to spawn leaving only the monsters around to fish for. I expect an early spawn. Keep in touch with me on that. The bones are here now and I should think are not going anywhere. The ones we have seen look and act really dumb and are a hoot to catch. They are not big fish yet but who’s complaining?

If you are looking to book a trip with us please call Gennifer at my toll free number. She is in the office 6 days a week Mon – Sat taking care of my busy fishing schedule.

Here is a little photo of us at the Mercury Excursion at Hawks Cay this year. Testing and playing with some of the new toys Mercury and Mercury Racing have coming out in the not so distant future. The boat that we are sitting in is a 39 Ft MTI catamaran. I had the opportunity to see this boat fly from the inside at 119 mph with twin 700 HP Mercury Racing Engines. What a nice machine.

That’s “Live the Dream” for now. I hope to see some of you back down here soon for the real deal. Till next time (probably next cold front)…

Live the Dream!
Capt. Steven P. Lamp

To Contact Dream Catcher Charters please call the following numbers 

Office           888 362 3474

Cell               305 304 0497

Our Web Addresses  

www.fishingkeywest.com

www.gotothekeys.com

www.chartersofkeywest.com

Hi everyone

The Key West Fishing report is a good one this week. We have been having a ball out there battling some great fish.

Tarpon Season is in full swing right now. Live baiting for them is working best. Trips have been productive all day long especially our evening trips. Last night I was able to pull of about 6 jumped fish in a 4 hour period landing three of them with my clients. I am finding our fish this time of the year to be exceptionally strong with long and powerful runs and only a few jumps. Big thing we are trying to deal with this week is our bowing techniques. Clients are losing lots of fish forgetting to bow to the King as he launches out of the water. We will keep working on it.

We still have a few night trip slots available for you if you want the hottest tarpon action the keys has to offer.

Fly fishing charters have been a bunch of fun. We have had some Fly Curious anglers go out and catch some Spanish Mackerel, Blue fish, Jacks, Barracudas and huge mangrove snappers on the fly. Traditionally we fish this time of the year is great for permit on the fly as you will see in our flats fishing report. Also offshore fly anglers have been going out on our bay boats with much luck with the Yellowtail snappers and many other species ready to eat.

We have a new trip that we are developing called the All In Wonder. On this trip we fish the tarpon run in the morning and then we move to the flats for some permit or whatever else may be moving around. After that we then move out to the Reef or wrecks for some more permit or Cobia. then we have the capability of heading to the reef for some extra fun action. All of this is done with our 21 and 23 ft bay boats. People are having an absolute blast on this trip.

As for the flats fishing the permit have been here is HUGE numbers around the Marquesas Keys and elsewhere. tailers and groups are the challenge here and the socials (groups) are very hard to get to eat. I think I have figured them out by using an alternative bait for them (cant tell ya what it is Competition reads this report). The bones are making a comeback in the warmer weather. I cannot remember a time when we have had 75 degree water in the tail end of February.

Reef fishing has been really good for Yellow Tail snapper and kingfish. The sails are kind of soft right now with not many fish around for the angler to fish for. Bottom fishing has been really good though with some great catches of true American Red snappers and some really large black grouper. Coming up soon I hope the sails come back so we can add that to our all in wonder trip on our 23 ft boat.

Call us to book your fishing adventure and Live The Dream with us.

Tarpon are here! I wish I could leave the report at that.... But I cant. Permit, Barracudas, Huge Jack Crevales, Cobia, Trout, Blue fish and Lady Fish.

Fishing is fun with tons of action during this unseasonably warm weather..

Our Spring fishing season is really heating up for tarpon fishing. Book soon.

Fishing has been very good inshore and offshore this past week. Kings and sails offshore have been heading up the lineup fluctuating with the passing cold fronts. I took the bay boat out to the reef goofing off the other day and caught a 22lb king on a bait caster with a plug. Also jumped a sailfish with the same.. What a hoot.

Inshore the permit fishing has been pretty good however a bit challenging due to poor water clarity from the last front that pushed through. I expect it should clean up in a day or so. All else inshore has been super. The tarpon are here but a bit finicky and hard to place, this should change here really soon (day or so) even with the north wind today I expect a pretty consistent tarpon fishery to show up really soon. Barracudas on the flats have been not only hungry but big, with some 40 inch cudas landed by my clients in the last few days. The Marquesas trips are well worth the time on the flats and my bay boat with some good shots at permit, barracudas, sharks, Jacks, Blue fish, Spanish mackerel and many more.

Spring is filling fast for tarpon season.. Call now to see about our Tarpon fishing season discounts.

Happy New Year Everyone.

Fishing has been very good the last few weeks and I have been slammed with fishing people to take out. This is a good thing.

On the flats boats here is what we are doing
The Permit are tailing very well in certain areas making for a great shot for my Permit fishing anglers. I expect this to stay strong through March.
Tarpon, They are here and getting thicker everyday. I expect January 06 to be our best January ever of Tarpon fishing for mid winter. Now keep in mind that these guys can be monsters this time of the year getting up to 150 lbs in some cases.
Fun Fish- Jacks, Lady Fish, Cobia, Trout, reds. All the above have made a showing in December however a little light in the redfish and trout department this year for me. The Jacks have been huge, hungry and fun for light tackle and fly anglers. The Barracudas have been very cooperative as well on the flats. This should keep up through March offering anglers lots of action.

On the 23 ft Bay boat

Tarpon in the morning early then we set out for the flats for some permit Later on we have been hitting the Barracudas and jacks on the flats chasing the rays. this boat makes it easy for three anglers to be hooked up simultaneously.

On our full day trips we are able to scoot out to the reef for some yellow tail fishing and possible shots at sails and tuna as well as some killer bottom fishing. The weather has been very cooperative for this offering my anglers the best of both worlds on one boat.

I consider the 23 fter to be the ultimate fishing boat being able to fish inshore and offshore offering my clients more in a days outing.

Holidays are coming up quick. Hope that everyone has been getting their shopping done. Ah bah humbug lets go fishing.

Much like last week we are watching the fronts come and go. Warming and cooling the waters which is really turning the fishing on.

The entertainment season is upon us. so many fish to fish for in the cooler waters. Finding the mullet muds is a great way to have a day filled with catching lots of fish both on fly and spin.
On the flats, The monster Barracudas have shown themselves basking in the sun keeping warm ready to pounce on a plug or fast moving bait, fun times. The Jacks are huge and are expected to stay that way till spring. I am already noticing a population of Blue fish as well. here, early yet however tons of fun for a fly or spin fishing enthusiast. The rest is the same and should stay that way  through winter.

Catches of the week.

Had two real good days of baby tarpon fishing this week. below are some photos. both of these people, this was their first tarpon. We were using live bait in an undisclosed location. Big fun on light tackle.

Happy Holidays everyone. Turkey day was real good this year. We were able to reprieve a few turkeys our selves by having some fish. Yes, Grouper and Snapper were on the menu this year for our holiday. I was able to get out offshore this past week and did really well on the bottom fishing out near the Marquesas. The weather was right and we went. Lots of fun.

To the report.........

We had a really good blow last week compliments of a nasty little front. The front not only brought us some cloudy water but cooler temps both in and on the water. I am thinking that this may have ended bonefish season this year for the shallow flats.

However it started a whole new cycle of fishing for us here with great shots at Trout, Reds, Permit, Pompano, Cudas, Huge Jacks and Lady fish. I call this the entertainment season because in a days time we are able to catch so many different species of fish and it is nice and cool. Everyone catches fish and lots of them. We had a trip yesterday that my folks landed over 10 species of fish in a 4 hour trip. This was in part thanks to the new 23 we use now we were able to get to the near shore waters as well as the flats to fish. That boat has really opened up some options for our clients.

Flats fishing people Take HEED. "The Permit are running the Permit are running....." Yes I know the water temps are chilling but the permit do not care!!!!! We specialize in permit fishing on the flats.. Our catches are HUGE and MANY.... We are the best!!!... We have three boats that do it.. SO LETS get out there... Now is the time through March.. You WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED>>>>!!!!!

New Section

Catches of the week

Capt Luke Kelly was out on the Intuition in the flats on Saturday and his 8 year old client caught a 13 lb permit. What a catch... I will add a photo when I get it.

Capt. Nat Sampson was out on our 28 fter the Inspiration showing a family a great time on the waters on Saturday of last week where his clients caught a 6 ft tip to tail Black Tip Shark in the shallows of the back country on 20 lb test line...., along with an awesome assortment of large mangroves and Jacks with Lady fish mixed in. Fun day...

Then there was Gary fishing with me and his fine 80 lb tarpon. Gary is from Iowa and this was his first cast, first eat, first, jump and fist release tarpon ever..... Nice job Gary, It was actually a leadered release fish caught on board our boat the Intuition.

Next I have to mention My Georgia Friends I fished on last wed the 23rd Mike and his son. they were into a mess of huge Jack Crevales out fishing with me on the Intuition towards the Marquesas. Using live pilchards they were catching 11-15lb jacks on 6 lb test. Mikes son kept saying "we are catching one on every bait". He is 12 years old.

Forcast...

Looks like we have another front comming in on wed or so this week.. I am actually looking forward to it. It will light up the fishing in the back waters for all sorts of species. I love it... Then when it warms back up at the end of the week... The tarpon will come in and feed... Yea...

 I will also try and fish offshore as the tuna have been running as well as the Wahoos, I will go out there and see what's up. Should be a great trip. I will let you know next week. I love going out there on the Intuition.

Everything is pretty much back to normal this week. We have our vehicles replaced and we are back to work. My schedule this week was pretty full with the 23 bay boat. We did some permit fishing, tarpon fishing and also fished a few wrecks. The fishing is great. I really enjoy that boat it offers me so much versatility for my clients to enjoy. I highly recommend it for those not sure if a flats boat may be too small in windy conditions. Space is becoming limited on that boat so book ahead.

Things are back to normal so everyone come on down and let me show you a great day on the water here in Key West Florida.

October 31st Wilma Plus one week.......

Things were going great till Wilma showed up. The fishing was stellar and I had clients nearly every day.

Things have slowed a bit. Now we are Wilma plus 1 week. Key West things are back in operation. Tourists are allowed back in and the over all damage to the islands was incredible. I understand that we have 50% of the cars in Key West were totaled from Flooding from the sea. I stayed for the storm here at our marina I was pushing cars back into their parking spots while they were floating. The storm waters rose at about 6 am and subsided around 9 am in Key West.

Personally we lost one car, and both my motorcycles. the worst of it was my hand tools down in my garage that took on 5 ft of water. My tool box is ruined. Lost a riding lawn mower and all my power tools. Good news is that my actual house sustained no damage as we are 12 ft off the ground. Anyone in a ground level home had complete loss. we are currently down to one vehicle to make our day. That's tough when you live 15 miles from where you work.

The best news, All of my boats are fine and operational. Not a scratch just very salty.

Fuel is scarce here but we are well stocked in that department.

The fishing, Well, Who knows. I have to get out there and see what's up. I am sure that there will be some new wrecks to fish on the flats. I will keep up on my report here daily to let you all know what's up. I do have trips scheduled however there is no bait on the island yet. If I did go out I am sure it would be plug fishing and live bait with pin fish to make a day of it. The back country is still really turned up and the winds are still howling at 25 knts due to a passing cold front.

Please feel free to call me on my cell 305-304-0497. I will be glad to chat with anyone. If you are in the mood to send assistance please call me or my office and we can let you know where to send to put to good use here locally. People need clothes and common items.

I have been slammed with trips. Thanks to all of you that have fished with me in the last several days for finding out what real flats fishing is all about.

Quick Report
Permit everywhere. Cannot seem to get enough of these guys.

Tarpon in the creeks and shallows and the babies are starting to show up.

Bonefish, Early morning or late incoming tide.

Its HOT> I mean temperature... HOT> 1/2 day and 3/4 day trips only. My scheduling is going well. Filling in about a week in advance. I still have some holes in my schedule and I am ready to go.

LETS GET OUT THERE>>>>>>

Seems as though the powers that be did not check in with me to know how to schedule the Hurricanes this year. I guess if I had it my way we would not have any. July this year has been the earliest I have ever seen a storm let alone one to bother us here in Key West. Now that Dennis has been here and well gone things are back to normal.

The fishing has rebounded with a vengeance. Offshore and  inshore things are heating up with the summer temps.

Bones, tarpon and Permit can be found on the flats in great numbers. This is the time of year that I love to fish. If you have not booked a trip for late summer now is the time.

That's the report.. Easy enough. Now lets get out there.

As for future storms.. DON'T SWEAT IT! book your fishing trips and plan your visit to Key West. If the big ugly shows up then we refund your money.

My day to day has not changed much in the way of fishing. We have had some we needed breaks this June thanks to the weather and some early tropical systems moving through.

The tarpon are still around and seemingly willing to bite. We are seeing some large numbers in the harbor still and out to the Marquesas.

The Permit seem to be coming back in great numbers. I am looking forward to a stellar season this year in July for these wary little critters.

Bones of coarse are the topic of discussion among the docks. they are here in larger numbers than I have seen recent years. Smaller fish but looks like it will be a great fall for these guys.

For my back country fishing fans, Jacks and cudas are the delight.

Day off today, Can't stand it.....
I have some openings this weekend coming up, due to a cancellation.

The full moon is around us now and things are getting back to the norm.. The tarpon fishing was feverish on live bait however a bit of a challenge for my guys on the fly. We had a great time non the less.

I have been seeing many bonefish around. This is a huge sign that this year will be a great one for these guys. The permit have been reported by the thousands out at the reef this week. Very late for a spawn traditionally however they are still on the flats as well. I have been fishing the tarpon in the am then heading out to the permit flats later in the trip offering my anglers a more rounded day.

Keep the emails coming I really enjoy reading them and answering your questions whether you fish with me or not. If you are coming to Key West and looking for a guide for tarpon season feel free to get recommendations from me. My schedule can be crazy but there are many talented guides here in Key West that would love to get you out there. Maybe I can help. Try and keep you away from the Rif Raf... captstevenlamp@bellsouth.net I respond everyday usually twice a day.

Call my office for immediate response.

I hope everyone has a wonderful day out there.. I know mine will be just great.....

Its 4:00 am Sunday morning.... Do you know where your tarpon are????

ITS TARPON TIME!!!!!!!!

I have had some stellar trips the last week or so. Things have been red hot with the tarpon before this full moon that we are under. No joke, Some days jumping off 6-10 fish. This year seems to be a great one so far. these fish are cooperating and showing my anglers a great time.

Currently I have some slots open for June. Look for The 4 - 8 pm slot it's a killer. These fish have been very well behaved. Got a huge permit last night along with a few tarpon on a half day sunset trip.

Hope to see ya soon. I gotta go fishing.

It's Tarpon season and the fish are here in full numbers. I have really enjoyed fishing these last few weeks. Its a bit windy yet but I know that when the wind lets up we will have these guys on the flats once again.

The permit are traditionally on the spawn this week and next... However. There seems to be no shortage of them on the flats.. Good numbers for anyone ready to take a shot at these wiry critters.

Bones are definitely around as well. Come to Key West to chase these guys as well. I am finding them in some new spots which is refreshing.

Other species.. Well, they are certainly here as well. There are plenty of species around to entertain during the slow times of the tides. To many to list.

The weather wonderful. This has been by far the most stellar Spring we have had in Key west  in over 4 years. The fronts come through and in 24 hours the weather is beautiful and the fish are going nuts.

I was fishing in the Marquesas Keys today and had a wonderful time with two clients from up north.

The Tarpon are here. both local fish and the migrants are showing up offering the bait or fly fisherman the time of their lives fishing for these monsters. I look for these guys to continue right on through July.

The Permit are still here as well. Today we had many shots at tailing fish on the fly. Unable to seal the deal I think that my clients still had a wonderful time as we go out again for two more days.

The bone fishing has been something that I really have not looked into due to the ohter species however I have heard some of the Big Pine Key guides report som double digit bones caught up there.

Other species.  The jack fishing this time of the year is spectacular. Yesterday I was fishing right after a cold front blew through with a couple of guys and we caught some huge 20 lbers on live bait and one on plug. Right after that, we went towards key west to lock into not one but three nice cobia.

All in things are great here and we cannot wait to get you out there to live the Dream.....

Call soon to make your reservation with me.

It's been COOOOLLLLLDDDDD.

Fished every day this past two weeks both offshore and inshore. Fished the Southern Kingfish Association Hogs Breath Kingfish tournament with a client of mine to take 6th place over all on a 48.54lb king. Fun weekend and great crew. Fishing with Capt. Anthony Skinner and Kevin Allstot on board Kevin's 39 ft Midnight Express. Fun weekend. Even the part spending the night in hospital to remove a hook from my hand.. Oh yea..

Fished the flats now Mon thru today and expected to stay steady right thru February.

Water is cold. Permit are being funny and there are no tarpon this minute. I am expecting the tarpon to show by next week during our warming trend. I am going tot he Marquesas tomorrow to have some fun with the Bazillian Cudas I saw yesterday out there. We had a  blast.

Call me for update on the report on my cell if you would like. 305 304 0497. After 3 please.

I hope that everyone had a great new years and a nice holiday season.

Here things have been kicking right along lately for the fishing charters. I have been very busy fishing almost every day weather permitting.

Things are great out in the back country.

There are not many bones around however the water temps have been in the 70's.

Permit are everywhere and really Dumb. I expect this trend to continue till at least April as these are some of our best times to catch permit on bait or the fly rod.

The tarpon have been around allot lately as well. Jumping a few fish in the early am is very possible on my charter before we head out to the flats.

Back Country fishing charters are really having a ton of fun. Lady Fish, Trout, Pompano, Redfish, Jacks, Blue Runners, Snappers, Barracudas, Cobia, and bluefish are all part of the game out there and folks are catching 50 fish per trip. A great way to entertain the family or a few guys just wanting to catch a bunch of fish..

Things look great and the fishing is excellent. I really like this time of the year.

Well election day is over and the peoples choice has been made.

December is here and has come in like a kitten. The weather here is not real. I feel as though all the things I have ever wanted for perfect weather for fishing has come together. 78degrees low humidity, clear skies.

The fishing is what you make of it. such nice days I have been running to the Marquesas allot. seeing plenty of permit and jumping some tarpon. The bones are scarce as the water temps are dropping. The cudas are starting to come around in great numbers and offering my folks tons of fun. Book now for Christmas week I am filling up.

Remember that if I cannot fish with you or you would like to fish with another guide, call my office. Gennifer will hook you up with a guide of your liking.

See ya soon.

Its election day tomorrow.. Hmmm I won't get political here but I know you will all make the right decision.

Fishing.... Well here it is November already. the pumpkins are put away and its time to think about Turkey Day and Christmas. For most folks that means cold weather and time to come to the Keys and fish with me.. Right?? Hope so..

Here is what to expect.

The bones are hiding this time of the year with a few exceptions. the cooler waters drive them off the flats only till mid day for a feed on the right tide movements. The permit are here in full force and you can expect great shots at them all through winter providing we do not have to turn on the heat. The Tarpon have not left us.. I think Key West is going to see another year round tarpon fishery. I hope that this is a trend. These fish are here during all weather but eat better after fronts.

There is sooo much bait here... The jacks and mackerel are going ape. big fun for the light tackle angler fly and spin. Trout should be here soon I am guessing and I look forward to them showing up.

Thats the report Lets go fishing. My schedule still has some holes in it and I am sure my colleagues would love to fish with you if I cannot.

Have a great day

I cannot remember fishing this much this time of the year. Thanks everyone for booking with me and keeping my schedule solid.

I just finished up with the Little Palm Island SLAM tournament hosted by the Redbone and Mercury Marine. I fished with Gary Delgman and he won the Spin Plug division trophy. Nice Job Gary, I really enjoyed fishing with you.

Fishing report off of that tournament is great. Bones Tarpon and permit everywhere. There is not a better time to come to the keys for some excellent flats fishing. It just doesn't get any better than this. I expect these fishing conditions to stay through The first of October. Good luck and Call me./

Hi everyone, ITS HOT HERE! So is the fishing.

Tarpon are here and they are hungry. The crowds are gone and things are quiet for a few weeks till the lobster thing goes off. time to get out there on the flats and get yourself a grand slam tarpon permit and bonefish.

All three are here and easy to get to. The storms this summer have been few and far between the only excuse you have is the heat.

I have been fishing offshore as well. Dolphin and Wahoo are fitting the bill there. Lock and load. Smooth sailing nice trolling. Nothing like a monster Bull dolphin hitting a live pinfish as he swims along.

Key West fishing report by Capt. Steven Lamp

I have been fishing almost every day for the last few weeks.

Tarpon fishing has been stellar as it should be for May. However. The winds are still up and scheduled to be so for the next week. My fly fishermen are getting beaten out there. y bait guys are fine. So as a short reprot for this time of the year.

Tarpon are here in great numbers waiting for wind to lay down. Permit are huge and numerous. I have heard reports of bones in the back country.

Call me.....

Its tax time and we all should go fishing after it is over.... Sounds good to me.

The weather must be frightful outside because I am in here in my office making a fishing report. I have been fishing everyday with just a few play days in between and the fishing really got to be very rewarding last week into last weekend.

Tarpon are here in the droves, not huge fish by any standard but they are here and hungry, few days ago we jumped 8 and caught 6 on live bait. The largest being 80 lbs.

Permit have taken off the month for the reef line to do a little R and R with their loved ones till about the 1st of May. I expect a really strong permit season this summer as the fish are right on schedule with the spawn.

From what I have heard bone fishing has been decent enough to go and try it. However my clients of late have had the need for big pulling fish such as tarpon.

There is your Key West Flats fishing report as seen from the eyes of myself. This time of the year it is always an easy bet for fishing here in Key West. You will tie into one of the "big Three".

Keep in mind we are offering the big boat now for tarpon trips at all hours of the day and into the night.

Lets go fishing, looks like things are firing up out there on the flats. Been seeing lots of Permit and tarpon with a scattered and scared bonefish on occasion.

Before this last front the tarpon were eating ok, seemed as thought they were on a bit of a different agenda than being stuck with a hook.

Permit are in the droves. Many good fishing sightings seen in the Marquesas and closer to Key West. Looks like I will be fishing the Dell Brown tournament this year to satiate my Permit on the fly fix.

We have been running offshore trips as well and enjoying some great grouper snapper fishing with the shots at some Huge Kings. Sails have been poking their heads up as well.

Give my office a call to get some of my last minute dates left in my schedule. Remember that we have a larger boat that we are using for Light Tackle fishing offshore and in the harbor for Tarpon. Dolphin season is right around the corner. Great time to be had on Fly or light line.

Well the New year came and went. The tarpon stayed and then the weather turned cooler. They are still here and waiting for a warming trend. My good friend Yukon Jack landed his first tarpon ever on the 6th. His first tarpon was over 100lbs. Not bad Jack.

Fished the Marquesas all last week. Here is a list of fish caught in three days of fishing with Shakespeare. all on artificial. God, I love winter fishing.
Barracudas, Black Grouper, Scamp, Red Grouper, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, cero mackerel, Yellow tail snapper, Jack Crevale, Mangrove snapper, Look Downs, Jew fish, Bar Jacks, Grunts, Lady fish, blue fish, Blue Runners, Pompano, Trout, Redfish.
I think that's it.. How's that for a species count? I love those trips especially in the winter, it can be very challenging to do this as a tournament. We had three boats and fished for three days to collect as many species as possible and then numbers of fish. It was a blast.

Permit are around as well. We had some great shots in the Marquesas.
 

Happy new Year everyone,

I would like to thank you all for making this year the best ever in my career as a fishing guide. I would also like to thank my sponsors for believing in me like I believe in their products.

Fishing report for the date.

Tarpon are here and they are huge. Seems as though they have shown early this winter. Jumped a few fish in the last couple days that are in the 100+ range.

Spanish mackerel are hitting the shallows as well and offering anglers a thrill on light tackle.

Permit, I saw a few today on about a 400 yard push across one of my favorite spots. They were big fish just as we are used to seeing this time of the year.

Jacks, Snappers, and Barracudas finish up the line up for the rest of the gang. Fun to be had by all.

Well, The fun is seemingly over (read October 25 below) and nasty November has raised its wicked head.

I had the opportunity to go to the Ft Lauderdale international boat show this year on behalf of Mercury Marine and Mercury Racing. Seems as though the day I left 10/28 was the last day of great weather here in the keys. After that is blew, rained, blew some more, then Really blew 30 + and now it has been a solid 2 going on three weeks of 15- 20 with gusts to 25 and 30. The wind direction has been a rotten Easterly to North easterly. Good news is that it has to end soon.

To make a living we have been running some trips. Making my clients fully aware of the conditions and going for it.

Well, as you can imagine, the winds have effected flats fishing tremendously, however the tarpon are still here, jumped a few the other day with a determined client that really wanted to go but the bones are hard to shoot at and the permit seem to have all but left the building.

I have never in my career done a report on snapper fishing, however, they are large and fun to catch when nothing else is available. Makes for a great day on the water and some table fare. Along with the snappers some of the guides have been reporting good catches of Shark and Barracudas on light tackle. My boat has bee getting some nice sized grouper in the back country waters with sizable Jacks.

So if you are headed down, understand the conditions and pray that they change

Sorry so late with this one. Been super busy fishing almost every day.. Having fun.

Its Fantasy fest this weekend and that means time off for me. No fruit cakes on the water. this place is packed.

Fishing has been very weird so I will make it short.

Tarpon are still here. 8 - 50 lbers I am boating at least one almost daily with a day or two of misses due to poor eating or missed shots.

Permit, Where did they go? Been really slow here. Got a HUGE one last week sometime in the contents with a guy but it was a channel fish. 38lbs. HUGE. They are hard to find on the flats.

Bone fishing, AWESOME, when the tides are good. They are great. Bettered my career all time largest with a client over the weekend at almost 13 lbs. NICE FISH..

Thats about it. Look for me at the Ft Lauderdale Boat show the last week of this month. Then back to fishing. Got my new boat running great. Very comfortable.

I have been fishing nearly every day this week. Has been absolutely wonderful. The fall is coming in to the Keys so softly this year with slight NE winds and refreshing 85 degree dryer conditions. I think that this is truly my favorite time of the year here in Key West.

Had an interesting trip yesterday worth noting, my client for the day caught 13 different species of fish in the Marquesas with a total of 57 fish, including one very fine permit. Nice thing about the Marquesas this time of the year is that I usually have it all my self when I am out there. There are so many things to do around the islands should you need to kill a few minutes for a permit tide to come ready to fish. We have some great close to shore wreck fishing and lots of natural structure fish love to hang on. Neat place to fish. With my new boat it only takes me 35 minutes to get there. Very well worth it.

Bonefishing is great with a good tide. Many fish being seen all over and a great opportunity this time to catch the ghost of the flats. October is our best month for Bones and flats fishing in General. The weather is great and fishing is awesome.

I have a few days left in October in my schedule to reserve for fishing, If I am not open I have some other guides who will be happy to fish with you. Please call my office. 1-888-362-3474 and Gennifer will be able to Hook you up. with me or my buddies.

Tarpon Permit and bonefish are all hanging around very strong throughout the fall months. Seeing more than enough off all of them and great shots to be had by our anglers for them.

Hurricane Isabelle is going to miss us totally and actually offer us better weather as she sucks out our humidity and rains.

Sorry for the short report. Been fishing almost every day.

Indigenous 5 has arrived.

I have been fishing a-lot lately. Fishing has been very good. Finding all three of my targeted species when I look for them. Bone fish season is staying strong and the permit are getting back up on the flats. Had some strong days of permit fishing last week in the Marquesas offering my clients some great opportunities. The baby tarpon have been very cooperative for the most part with the exception of a bad tide day on Wednesday where they were difficult to get to because of higher water.

I will be fishing every day for the next two weeks and look forward to writing a great report after the Key West SLAM tournament.

Fishing last week was great. I was pre-fishing the whole week for the up coming Little Palm Island Mercury Grand Slam where I was guiding baseballs great, Wade Boggs and Private business tycoon Tom Conlin. I had a great time with both of these guys.

The pre-fishing went great as usual, fish everywhere and not a breath of wind. Come day of tourney, winds to 20 and rain on second day.

Here is my report, Bones, permit and Tarpon are here, and if you are not coming this year plan for next because this is getting better and better. Hotel rates are low and fishing is just fabulous. More details end of the week. Also look for more pics when I get them developed.
 

Things have been good here still holding. Had some West southwest winds today to deal with so fishing was not all that hot.

In the past few days we have experienced some great bone fishing though and the permit are in their usual haunts. Things look like they will only get better from here till the end of October.

Currently I have some time open in the end of August that I can fill. The 20 -22nd and the 25 and 26th. September has openings as well. My office is now open for 7 days per week with someone to help you get on my schedule or you can call me at home.

Fishing in Key West today again, been doing allot of that lately. Was really good. 1/2 day trip got a permit and a bone to the boat and had one other permit miss that take on a crab.

Fish are here and ready to eat. earlier this week I had a client SLAM in the Marquesas on bait. Two permit, one bone and a small tarpon. REALLY pretty day.

Fished offshore Wed in my big boat, had a large white marlin on and caught several dolphin in the 20 lb range along with a bunch of schoolies. Dinner time....

SLAM Season is here and I have some openings. If I cannot take you then I can show you to a pro guide who can.

Weather has been really funky again.
But we are certainly find some good permit on the flats offering my clients some great shots. We went through a lul a week or so ago but the fish seem to be back to normal.

Bonefishing in the am has been good before the water starts to cook them and they have been tailing up a storm in the shallow incoming waters. This should only improve as we move toward the fall and cooler tides. I can't wait.

Tarpon, the big boys of summer have move on for the year but there are a few straglers. Good tarpon fishing can be had on the right tide in the harbor channels and channels elsewhere.
Big deal this time of the year is out baby tarpon supply. I was fishing babies the other day with a client and we had a HOOT. They are sooo ready to eat.

Remember This time of the year is our SLAM season. If you are looking for the ZEN of all fishing accomplishments try the Key West SLAM. Tarpon Bonefish and Permit all in one day. Very possible this time of the year.

Good luck and tight lines.

Fun week, Things on the tarpon front are slowing a bit but the other fish are picking up the slack. Plenty of permit around offering the anglers several options for them or bonefish.  The weather has been the hardest part to get through, with the occasionally cloud cover in the am then clearing by noon.

July is one of my favorite months for permit followed by August September and October. Good time to be here, yes, it's hot but not so bad out on the flats.

A weekend off. Forgot what this feels like. Mowed my yard and started on my honey do list.

Friday was a wrap up of the Don Hawley tournament in Islamorada that I fished with one of my clients. We had a great time for our first time in this event. The folks in Islamorada were very nice and we had a good showing. Running 1400 miles over the five days was a bit arduous but thanks to my boat and the power that I run the trips were not bad at all. We were tied for 8th place over all. Congrats to Capt. Rick Murphy and Capt. Paul Tejera for pulling off a first and second place victory. I wanted to thank Charlotte for putting on yet another great tournament.

Fishing for tarpon is all that I have been doing in the past weeks to report. Fly fishing for tarpon was pretty slow at the turn of the month but it seems as though by Friday we had some new fish push in. Seeing strings of 20 - 100 were not uncommon off of Key West and a welcomed site for my angler to see. Ready to eat the fly and entertain the way only a tarpon knows how to.

The summer schedules are looking good for some last minute reservations. Permit season is upon us. Take advantage of this great fishery.

I have been too busy to even write a fishing report.. Here it is in brief.

Tarpon Everywhere. Season came in early right after the cold stopped. Permit have been all over as well. Great shots to be had by all. Some tarpon in the 150 plus sizes reported.

Bonefish are here too. Contents are loaded again and early as well.

Now is the time to arrange your charters. Call me so i can get you with one of my independent colleagues.

Steven

Barracudas on the flats and some tarpon in the harbor. Live bait for tarpon during the warmer days and flats fishing for Barracudas. Fun times to be had by all.

Catching between 6 and 20 Barracudas in the 30 inch + range every trip. Tarpon have been tough during the cold. Jack fishing is good for some diversity.

I would Like to thank everyone for your patronage last year and I look forward to seeing you this year.

Sorry for the short report but I have been fishing every day.. Not much time to up-date.

SPL

Fishing this week was a bit of a challenge with stronger winds than we are accustomed to with the changing seasons and the cold fronts starting to come in on a regular basis. But it has not stopped us from having some great days on the flats.

One day last week was a bit slow but the rest were loaded with lots of fun on permit, bonefish and some jacks.

The permit seem to be sticking around as I expected this year for the fall lineup. We have had more fun on these fish out in the Marquesas than I can ever remember having in November. Now we are taking the beating we deserve for having such fun out there due to increasing winds in the afternoon but the fish have been totally cooperative in eating crabs and today looking very closely at fly, when it was placed near them. One day last wee we must have seen 60 of these fish and we never moved...

I am expecting the permit fisher to stay strong all the way through the winter except for the super cold snaps where barracudas and jacks will fit the bill for some entertainment.

Would like to welcome Greg to my fly fishers for permit crew. I look forward to fishing with you many days in the future. Fun wasn't it. Also Jim who landed his first permit over 20 lbs on a live crab this week.

Tight lines ......

I cannot remember being so busy as I have been in the last few weeks. Just a quick update, Fished the Cabbage Key Tournament in Ft Myers last week. Really enjoyed myself. The staff of Cabbage key were a delight to be around for the festivities and the tournament went really well. It was my first time fishing that area and I had some local help, but we still did not manage to get the fish we needed to place in the tourney. That's ok this time but next year I have no excuses as I scouted over 290 miles of Ft Myers back country in my Lake and bay. The couple of places I stayed there were the Tarpon lodge on Pineland and the Cabbage Key. Both owned by the Wells family and very nice places to stay for a weekend of fishing.

Coming back to the Keys has been great. I can actually see the bottom while I am looking for fish. Amazing the difference 100 miles of water makes in visibility. Anyway. Getting back I was welcomed by some out standing bone fishing out in the Contents off of Big Pine Key. we got two fish over 10 lbs. Saw a few that I think would have gone 12. That has been fun right up till the cold front that pushed through yesterday (sat). Was not much of a front but i did not want to chance those fish not being there after such a long haul it would take to get there. I will look for them again tomorrow when the SE winds come around.

Permit fishing has been kind of slow unless you run into the pod I found two days ago. Still as fun as that was it is slim on the flats I expect it to pick up by next moon phase.

The water temps are still an active 80 degrees and there is not another front in sight. I look forward to some fantastic fishing next week.

In the middle of November here I head up to St Petersburg FL to fish the Chuck Lamar tournament benefiting Pediatric Cancer. I look forward to adding yet another area to my list.

 

The report for this entry is a good one. I look back on the past years at this time and see that it is typical for this time of the year to have a good fishing report, especially for the flats on the first two weeks in Oct. Providing there are no close by or worse yet, direct hitting tropical storms.

Bonefish- Wow, they are very healthy and seem to be picking up in numbers at some of the spots that I frequent. On Thursday of last week on no particularly special tide we found some fish ranging in the 10lbs and up class. What a pretty day. It was the first day of good weather we had right after Lili. The day before the winds were 15-20 SE. This day that we saw all the fish the winds were 8-12 SE, the water was still a slight bit murky but the fish did not seem to mind.

Permit- Same as the bonefish. they are cruising around like they own the place. Thursday was a good day for permit for us as well. Fly fishing my client had 6 good shots at some fish moving through. In one instance there were three fish and they all stopped to look at the fly. The middle fish turned a bit almost looking perplexed. Seemed to go for the fly but it just did not come together. Better luck next time. I love that....

Tarpon- Interesting note here. There are allot of fish around and in very unique places. We saw quite many fish between Thursday and Friday and i am not talking babies here. These were nice big fish. We were fishing fly though and the fish we in the channels and a bit to deep for us to try and get a line to them. Great to see them this time of the year.

Just recovering from a great time at the Key West Mercury Redbone S.L.A.M. tournament to catch the cure for Cystic Fibrosis. What a great turn out and a fun time to be had by all involved not to mention a great fund raiser for a great cause. My hat goes off to Gary Ellis and his crew for doing a fine job of putting this tourney on.

The Super Fly Tournament was on Friday and I was paired up with Chuck Lamar of the St Pete Devil Rays. We jumped 5 tarpon out for 11 eats and were not able to compound on any of them to put them in the boat. Later we had a nice sized permit look at the fly on a perfectly placed cast. Big water and poor visibility really took its toll and the Super Fly Tournament was won on another boat with a tarpon and two bones landed.

The S.L.A.M. tournament was plagued by rain also the first day with it clearing on the second fishing with Chuck Lamar again, Chuck was able to win our division by fishing fly, and making it count, also winning the fly division as well. Nice job Chuck.
-Top rod angler first day
-Celebrity Grand Champion
-Fly Division winner.

Lots of fish out there. It has been a banner month so far, weather and tides cooperating. I am fishing almost every day but as always I have some holes in my schedule. Sorry my report is so small this week but I have so much to do.

In a sentence
Fish everywhere just come before the weather messes them all up.

SPL

Here I am almost on time with my new installment of the key West Flats fishing report. Must say I have been out allot fishing with new people that are calling me and wanting to go.. I like that.. Specially this time of the year.

Fishing has been great. Great great... Baby tarpon, permit and bones just like the book says. Ya know, its funny, All during the spring we bitch and moan about the weather being too this or that. Well, the weather right now is perfect. In fact it is so perfect that I should be out there fishing, but I chose today to take Sunday off. So there.

There is really nothing bad to report. Just a fantastic time to fish the Keys. We have it all on the flats right now. It simply does not get any better and I see no changes through September. We have had the quietest tropical season ever so far (fingers Crossed). I think mother nature may be giving us a gimmie for the tenth anniversary of Andrew.

As far as other stuff goes. Check out my site. I am installing some pictures into it and making some changes.
Also, Make your reservations as soon as you can for Tarpon season. The guides that we send trips to had a great year last year and allot of those folks are returning. Make sure you get on a list.

That's it for now. Tons of fish everywhere.. Call me I have some room next week and a bit in September.

August 1st

Keep Dreaming, me, of all persons on time with a fishing report. This is getting humorous. I want to thank Mr Michael Mc C. (You know who you are) for reminding me that it has indeed been a while once again. So here goes. I hope to see you at the end of August Michael.

Bones bones bones. If I were a sportscaster it would have been fast talking like a last inning stretch with the bases loaded the last few days of fishing. The fish are where they are supposed to be. I will not go into great detail about what we caught the last few days but let me say it was impressive by any standards. Thanks Mr Persinger for a great two days of fishing I had almost as much fun as you did. Remember next year. Bones are fast, very fast.
Mr. and Mrs. Franks that was a great day of fishing with you folks. I know it was hot but wasn't it worth it?

Permit. I will take advantage of this one chance to do a one liner in my fishing reports. The first time I can talk about permit and say no excuses. No tide problems, water temps off, the cloud cover was bad, none of that.
Here is my Permit Report and you can take it to the Bank ! ! ! !

So far since June, The best I have even seen in Summer. We have broken all of my career records.

I wish my good friend Yukon Jack could be here this week. His favorite fish is the permit.

That's about all I got to say about that.          C.S.P.L.

Wow, has it really been since June 15th that I made my last report? Sorry, I will try and keep it up a bit better here in the future.

Things have been really good here. We have had some incredible days of fishing in fact they may even be out numbering the incredibly crappy days. Not sure they are all running together. The weather is still being very funky for this time of the year but we are still making progress in having some outstanding catches.

Permit, Well, I will just say this. I had a client just a few days ago catch 6 in one full day. For the record, these were all tailing fish, not socials or wreck mongers. What a day. I will have the pictures posted real soon. Oh and by the way. The first permit that he landed was his very first salt water fish ever.......

Bonefish, Its summer and they are happy. Tough tides these last two days for a morning fishing experience but they are definitely around.  Have seen many schools up in the Big pine area with a few catches in the 8-9 lb range. Great tiem of the year for bones and permit..

Tarpon, They are still here. Jumped several in the last week or so. Still having fun with them. Was poling a flat the other day and found some that were still looking like a migration pattern. Spoke to my boys in Ft Myers and they say the tarpon are everywhere up there but tough to get them to eat.

Well anyway, today is yard day. Need to mow. Too much fishing grass is Knee high.

Another Saturday off.... Actually I am not even sure that the date above is correct. Too many days running together. But I have Sat and Sunday off this weekend and I plan on resting up f or my final run for June. I am really looking forward to fishing here in the next several weeks as it is probably my favorite time of the year.

Word of the month is still tarpon, On the fly, on bait and plug fishing for tarpon is still really strong. We fished yesterday with three boats and 5 guys and we all caught fish. Jumped a few and every one had a chance to feel the pull of the might Silver King. Fun trip.

Permit are everywhere. If you want to catch a permit on Bait or fly. Now is the time. From now through to October permit fishing will be outstanding.

Bonefishing in the am and all through the day has been strong. We have been seeing some good number of bones to the east, I really enjoy hitting these fish on fly early in the am. on the rising tide. Or bait all day long. They can be a ton of fun for the angler.

I am also dolphin fishing out of my big boat this time of the year. Fun for the fly guy to get off of the flats for a day to go out and try his luck on dolphin. They can be a blast. We caught 8 over 10lbs a piece in less than one hour a few days ago. BIG FUN.

New Stuff- I am offering Fly fishing and light tackle fishing for Dolphin this year offshore of Key West. The rates will affordable and the fishing will be a blast! I have a 28 ft Pro line wide body with twin engines for this endeavor. Call me for details I am ready to fish offshore again.

Capt Steven Lamp

It is Saturday and miraculously I have the day off the water. Nice to have some time catch up on things here before I get rolling into another 15 days of fishing.

Last few days I fished with Yukon. His goal was to catch and release a true Tailing permit. He did, about 18lbs worth of very angry fish. Nice  job Yukon.

Another first Permit story was with Mr Tony Esposito of Mercury racing. 7 years he has waited to catch a tailing fish. We there ya go Tony, we did it in two hours.

In between all the permit tides we fished for tarpon. Having great luck in the mornings till 10 Am. I understand from the bait guides that the tarpon are a bit slow. On fly however things are pretty good. Was still a bit windy yesterday but seems to have calmed a bit today. Go figure I am off.

Bone fishing has been accessible as well but generally takes a back seat to out tarpon and permit this time of the year. I am looking forward to it in June and July however.

New Stuff- I am offering Fly fishing and light tackle fishing for Dolphin this year offshore of Key West. The rates will affordable and the fishing will be a blast! I have a 28 ft Pro line wide body with twin engines for this endeavor. Call me for details I am ready to fish offshore again.

Capt Steven

May 11th, HOLY SMOKES I WANT CALM ! ! ! !

        I am fishing with Gwen this week. He is a client of mine that has been with me now for 5 years. Today was his second day and THE DAY. Honestly I could have bowed out today due to high winds, but he wanted to make it happen and his cast is very strong. Low and behold he did it. Landed a 90 lber on fly in a 25 knot easterly. We damn near sunk the boat. What fun though. It was a classic shot too and he made it count, only to wear himself out... Yesterday we lost a colossal Permit on fly..

Tarpon

The fish have been trickling through with hunger on their minds it seems. We are having good eats and great opportunities. The wind needs to settle a bit and then we can get down to some traditional tarpon fishing like it used to be.

Permit

Everywhere and dumb as a rock! Just like I like em.....

My newest May client

busted a nice 28 lb permit a few days ago. Nice job Scott and welcome to the May schedule on board the Inspiration I am going to enjoy fishing with you I really like your spirit.

My new boat

is still on its way. Looks like the builder is doing some extra stuff to it. he says my reputation is that I am notoriously tough on boats. ----Whatever...  (who told?)

Folks if you are looking for dates in May CALL ME. Fly or Light tackle. lots of my colleagues are suffering from dead aunt syndrome this year. Oh I guess i should explain....

Dead Aunt Syndrome-

A very rare case of dead or dieing Aunts that requires guys to cancel fishing trips. Usually associated with a huge dips in the Stock Market.

Anyway, Call after 4 PM to talk to me directly. Write to me and tell me what ever. I love mail. 

Capt Steven

It is May first to be exact. The fish have been great on most of the tides. Just coming off of a light blow here last two days. It is Tarpon season now. Full Swing. Some days the fish are on the flats and others they are in the deeper waters. Either way they are hungry it seems.

I go pick up new boat (fingers crossed) next week.

I want to thank my regulars for remembering my birthday. May 3rd, It is really nice of you guys to take time out of your busy schedule to think about me.
Yukon Jack- By and far my favorite Polish angler. Got me an embroidered shirt from Cabellas with my name on it. He and I have been fishing for a few years together I really look forward to the time I spend with him. Lets get you caught up to your kids this year Jack, they are really kicking your butt.
Mark D.- Thanks for the care package, that was very thoughtful. This year we finish your slam on Fly.
George and Margaret- It was my pleasure to help you get your first tarpon this year and welcome to my family of repeat clients. I will look forward to the awesome Maple Syrup you sent me from your farm in Vermont. Good stuff.
Tony Esposito- Mercury Racing, thanks for all yours and Mercury Support.

Its Folks like you all that make this job awesome. I am here for ya no matter what !

The fish are certainly here. This will be my second week of fishing for tarpon on the flats. Very unusual for them to be there this early but very welcomed. Tarpon ranging from 30 to 130 lbs have migrated from the Atlantic waters along our ocean front flats just like they do every year. We are see and catching tons of fish all day long.

This is the year, If you can possibly get away and come to the Keys I would do it. Been five years since I have seen it this good.

It is Monday the 18th. Tarpon fishing is jamming along just fine on live bait. Winds are a bit strong but I am finding the in the morning early the winds are light enough to work a nice school of fish hanging in the channels. My guys today boated two tarpon in an hour and a half after jumping two others off., we then moved out to the flats.

After the tarpon we have been looking for the permit on the flats in the nice SE breeze. Great classic opportunities for pitching crabs or flys to the unsuspecting Fish on the flats in the wind. Permit fishing has been very good.

Getting geared up for some bones here in the next few days I will let you all know about that shortly.

Had the great opportunity to fish the Dell Brown Invitational Fly fishing tournament last week. What a great time guiding with some of the best guides in the Keys. I tip my hat to Miss Charlotte for putting on a great tourney, the food was AWESOME TOO. My guys were two fellas from Colorado who had great talent with the fly and were able to manage two eats in three days. Oh did I mention that it was the first time they had fished for Permit with the fly. They did great for the conditions that were offered. Good job Tim And Taylor, I look forward to fishing with you again.

New boat is 5 weeks away......

Well I am tired and need to rest, more fishing tomorrow.

Its Sunday, the 10 of March, Pretty crazy week. the week before Last week the weather was terrible with tons of wind and rain as well. we still fished though with some die Hards that really wanted to go out. We did ok on the barracudas and the sharks, jacks as well. But in all points we should have stayed dock side.

Last week, Monday to today. Non stop slam fest on Tarpon, the weather has cleared and the fish are eating like pigs. We had a great week on tarpon in the shallow channels, averaging 10-15 jumps out of these fish per day and boating at least 3. One trip, two days ago we jumped 18 and landed 8. all in the 45-100 lb categories all on 15 lb test line.

March is a great time to come down for live bait tarpon.

Next week is the Dell Brown Permit Fly fishing invitational tournament. Should be a hoot. Some of the best fly fishing guides and anglers in the world will be there. I am guiding it as well. I will let you all know how it goes.

Till next time..................

Last of January 2002

Winter is here and the weather is Still Very strange. Very Warm, Our average temperature this month has been 80 degrees

BUT ! ! ! I have a great January Report.

Brings me to my fishing report.

The fish think that it is Summer. Bones Tarpon and permit are here in January, Yes you read it right...

 Permit are everywhere and seem to be hungry. So if it permit you want I can deliver for you probably right till about the month of April I am expecting it to be really good. We have caught six on bait this month alone.

Tarpon, Yes, very strange but we have then hanging around and will eat bait if it is the right day. These are not babies either. The last fish we jumped was 65 lbs or more. There are babies around too and they are as fun as ever. Tarpon Season Has Started Early.

Bonefish, Well, Yes I found some out west with the permit we were working. No catch though as we were in the reeds and did not wish to take a chance of break offs and damaging fish.

Other stuff,

All over the place, a great time of the year to come here and learn salty fly fishing. Jacks and large barracudas are great targets for the beginner offering great performance. Cobia are here and willing to eat. Take advantage of these conditions for bait as these fish are SOOO hungry.

Forecast,

The Crystal ball knows not the weather. But I guess we will have some. Anyway, I expect to see the permit stay strong. The tarpon are almost due to start coming in the channels here in a month or two and they are already here. Bones, well, for those of us who fish them we know how they can be. In and out with the warm water.

Let me catch you all up on what is happening here at Dream Catcher Charters.

In the last few months we have been hammering the tarpon as you can imagine. this year was very unlike the years in the past with way less wind so in turn there were fewer cancelled days and more fishing accomplished. all through the spring I had two very hard working fishing guides working with me, Capt. Nat Sampson and Capt. Luke Kelly. Both of these young men showed that they could take a charter out and perform better that most of the veterans.

Between the three of us on the water everyday sometimes twice a day we really smashed the numbers in fish. Tarpon season was great with migrants and local fish showing up nicely for our anglers. We had many fish in the 150lb range.
Funny thing, we have been bone fishing since March with tremendous results and no slow down in sight till October. One of our clients actually landed 17 bones in one trip. These fish have been in a not so normal area for us an they are a ball. We can hit these fish with three people too on one of our shallow water bay boats. Totally a fun fishery.
Now those of you who have fished with me and know how we fish and know the species of fish we have here have never heard me say this..... Redfish, yes the red fishery is huge with us  right now. I can almost guarantee you a redfish till October and maybe further.

Everything else is great too. The permit were right on schedule coming back on the flats in late may with huge numbers in July. A special congratulations goes out to Chris Suple for guiding the winning angler in the July version of the Dell Brown fly fishing for Permit Tournament. 

New program here at Dream Catcher Charters

Shallow Water Monsters.....

Yes, you heard right. the predators of the flats. We have had a huge calling for the shark trip so we put together a trip that we call the Shallow Water Monsters, predators of the flats. Go on this trip with toothy critters in mind catching Big Barracudas and Sharks, definitely check this one out. It is our attempt to offer more to our clients.

Fishing Forecast

Summer has proven itself quite hot this year, but we have had lots of rain, this I believe has helped our hurricane situation, as you all know we got hammered last year.
I expect the Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit, Sharks, Redfish, and barracudas to be here for the duration of the fall at least bringing us into the winter where we will only lose the bonefish to cooler water temps.The fishing has been great and the forecast looks even better. Don't be afraid to book a trip as the storms are certainly not as numerous this year.

“Live The Dream”
03240602

Key West Fishing Report and Newsletter for March 24, 2006

Dream Catcher Charters
Written by Capt. Steven Lamp

Key West Fishing Report For March 24 2006

I cannot say anything negative at all about the weather we are having this March except that I hope the hurricane gods do not notice the extra 6 degrees above normal water temps we are experiencing. Yes that’s right; our general water temps here in Key West are about 6 degrees above normal. I think it is because of a lack of cold fronts or maybe it has just been unseasonably warm. I am not sure I buy into the whole global warming thing though.  March is traditionally a windy month. As fishing guides we sit around the table after a long windy one and complain about the weather blowing twenty like a few old ladies talking about deaf old men.  We whine soooo much. Well this year is certainly shaping up differently.

          Like I said, the wind blows in March. I have often wondered, “What would the fishing be like if the winds were calm and warmer in March?” Well we got a chance to see what that would be like this past week and let me tell you, it was STELLAR!!!

Inshore Flats

Let me start off on the flats. Our flats trips here at Dream Catchers have been super. There have been plenty of shots and catches of permit and tarpon. One of our flats fishing clients last Wednesday fished his way to a Grand Slam. Tarpon on fly, Permit on bait, and four bones on fly! What a DAY! Other trips have been peppered with tarpon - permit, and bones - tarpon combinations depending on the luck and skill. All around flats fishing has been just awesome. Also on the flats you can count on some great Cobia fishing. I would say that this year it is the best I have seen, fish tailing off the rays and turtles and whatever else that they can find to hang out with. The fish are running in the 30-40 inch averages and ready to take a fly or live bait fast. More on Cobia later on the wreck and reef section…

Tarpon Fishing

          The tarpon are still consistently in the channels; however, in the last few days they are starting to show up on the flats for those tossing a fly. The tarpon are a mixed bag of locals and migrants with the migrants showing on the flats out west and back to the east backcountry. In the channels we are catching quite a few fish, some ranging in size upwards of 125 lbs, but most in the 40 – 80 range with big numbers. On some of my tarpon trips we have gone with as many as 7 fish to the boat in a 4 hour trip. Our evening trips are really going well with many releases, fishing 3 hours before sunset and one hour after.

All in Wonder Fishing Trip

          My new charter, the All in Wonder, is taking off with a bang! People are signing up for it left and right seeing the value that it offers for folks to catch as many different species as I can put them on. Here are some catches that we have had in the last few weeks.

          One 8 hour trip I fished with two guys and we were on fire with the tarpon, boating 7 fish out of 12 jumps. Fishing in the channels we were hitting them on live bait.