Archived December 2018 report: Fishing observations, water conditions, fishery availability, and holiday bookings below reflect that period.
December brings changing weather, seasonal fish arrivals, and a busy holiday week to finish the year. Thankfully, we have enjoyed mostly warm days and plenty of opportunities to get on the water. A little fishing, snorkeling, or a custom adventure sounds like a pretty good gift to give yourself!
Cooling Water Brings Fish Closer to Shore
As the water cools, fishing becomes the star of December. Our seasonal visitors include fish as well as people escaping winter. Bait gathers closer to shore, and many reef species move shallower to feed.
That gives us more fishing options without a long ride offshore. Snapper, grouper, mackerel, porgies, and assorted other species keep things interesting. Some of these closer areas also let us put together productive trips when wind limits our choices.
Bridge fishing offers snapper and a mixed bag of other fish, while the bay has been a useful option for mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel. On nicer days, we can work the deep reef edge for yellowtail snapper or drift the deeper wrecks for mutton snapper, kingfish, and amberjacks.
Offshore Tuna and a Few Dolphin Surprises
Far offshore, blackfin tuna can provide great fishing when conditions allow the run. Dolphin, also called mahi-mahi, are less dependable in numbers this time of year. Finding the right piece of floating debris can still turn up a welcome surprise.
Several species targeted by electric deep dropping were closed during this reporting period, while others remained available. I have been developing that part of my fishing program and learning more each time out. Calm seas and patience help, with species choices depending on the rules in effect for the trip.
Winter Snorkeling Depends on Timing
In-water activities become less predictable as we enter our windy season. Cold fronts can change conditions quickly. Outer reef water temperatures have been in the mid-70s, with visibility varying from day to day.
Windy stretches can stir things up, while calmer periods give us opportunities for clearer water and more comfortable seas. There are good trips to be had, but the weather window matters.
The spearfishing trips I offered during this period have also been productive, with snapper, grouper, and mackerel providing opportunities. As with snorkeling, suitable conditions and preparation are important parts of the plan.
A wetsuit is a good idea for comfort, especially when getting in and out of the water repeatedly. Bring dry layers for the boat ride too. Being able to add or remove a layer makes a difference as the wind, sunshine, and temperature change.
An Early Christmas Gift for the Boat
Christmas came early for me with a full electronics update on the boat. The new equipment has already helped me track weather and work around rain offshore as a strong cold front moved through.
The detail on the deep reefs and wrecks is impressive. I can almost see what the fish had for breakfast! As I learn the system and fine-tune its settings, I am looking forward to putting those capabilities to work on our trips.
Looking Ahead to Holiday Adventures
At the time of this update, Christmas week still had plenty of availability. I was looking forward to welcoming new and returning guests for fishing and custom outings.
My website covers many of the options, but your group may have an idea or question that needs a conversation. Tell me what you enjoy, who is coming, and what kind of day you have in mind. We can work through the possibilities with the weather and everybody’s comfort in mind.
If a day on the water belongs in your holiday plans, get in touch and tell me your idea. I’ll help you explore the options, whether you want dinner for the family, a challenging catch, or simply some time enjoying the Keys.
