Summertime in the Florida Keys

July & August bring the heat to the Florida Keys, and while the temperatures rise, so does the fishing action in Islamorada and Everglades National Park. This time of year, the crowds thin out a bit, but the fish are still here — and they’re hungry.
Backcountry & Everglades ActionThe early mornings and late evenings are key for anglers looking to beat the heat and get into some serious fish. Snook and redfish are active in the skinny waters of the backcountry and around the islands of Everglades National Park. Look for moving water and baitfish — that’s where the action is. Live pilchards, shrimp, or well-placed soft plastics will get the job done.
Tarpon are still hanging around the backcountry, especially in the deeper channels and creeks. Most of the big migrators have moved on, but resident fish in the 30–60 lb range offer some great fights. Early morning rolling tarpon can still be found in the glades — a sight that never gets old.
Flats FishingThe flats are alive this month. Bonefish are tailing early and late in the day across many of the oceanside flats, especially around Lower and Upper Matecumbe. On calm mornings with good visibility, it’s all about stealth and precision. Fly anglers, this is your time to shine.
Permit are more of a treat this time of year — elusive as ever, but August does see its fair share of encounters. If you're lucky enough to find a school, be ready with a live crab or a well-placed fly.
Reef & WrecksOut on the reefs, yellowtail snapper fishing remains solid. Early mornings and chum are key to bringing them up, and light tackle makes it a blast. Mangrove snapper are thick on the patches and edges, especially around the full moon spawn. This is a great time to stock up for the table.
Mutton snapper, grouper, and the occasional cobia can also be found hanging near the wrecks and deeper structure. Just be sure to check current regulations — we always practice conservation to ensure these fisheries thrive for generations to come.
OffshoreOffshore, it’s all about dolphin (mahi-mahi). August can be one of the last strong months for dolphin action before things slow down in the fall. Look for birds, weedlines, and floating debris in 400–900 feet of water. Peanut to gaffer-sized fish are the most common, but there's always a chance at a bull or cow if you're in the right place.
Blackfin tuna are another bonus, especially near the humps. Vertical jigging or trolling small feathers and live bait around first light can put some sushi-grade fillets in the box.

Final Thoughts
Summertime in Islamorada and the Everglades is all about timing — beat the heat, plan your tides, and you’ll be rewarded. It’s a great month for mixed-bag fishing and a chance to explore all this incredible area has to offer without the peak-season crowds.
If you’re looking to get on the water this month, whether it’s for tarpon in the glades, snapper on the reef, or chasing dolphin offshore, let’s go fishing — I’ve got the local knowledge to put you on the bite.
Tight lines,
Captain Greg Poland
gregpoland.com | @gregpolandphotography