Fish Species in the Florida Keys Backcountry and Everglades National Park
Read more about the species of fish you will be targeting on your charter with Capt. Bryce. If you have any bucket list species that you’re hoping to target on your trip, please tell Capt. Bryce when you contact him so he can plan accordingly.
Depending on the time of year, weather conditions, and tackle, you and Capt. Bryce will choose the best mixture of species to fish for. Read more about seasons on the flats and what fish bite best when in the Florida Keys.
Tarpon
Known as the “Silver King,” tarpon are one of the most sought-after game fish in the world. Their explosive jumps, blistering runs, and incredible size make every hookup an unforgettable experience.
Redfish
Redfish are powerful, aggressive feeders commonly found cruising shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and grassy backcountry waters. They readily eat both artificial lures, flies and live bait, making them a favorite target year-round.
Jack Crevalle
If you’re looking for a fight, Jack Crevalle certainly deliver. These powerful fish are relentless fighters that make long, drag-screaming runs and are known for their aggressive behavior and their topwater bites.
Goliath Grouper
Goliath grouper are true underwater giants that can weigh up to hundreds of pounds. They can be found in a variety of places from deep water channels to shallow mangrove shorelines. These fish provide a heck of a fight so be sure to hold on tight!
Bonefish
Bonefish are famous for their speed, stealth, and challenging sight-fishing opportunities on the shallow flats. These hard-fighting fish will test your casting accuracy and fish spotting abilities.
Snook
Snook are hard-hitting ambush predators that thrive around mangroves, shorelines, and potholes on grass flats. Known for their explosive strikes and stubborn fights, they’re one of Florida’s most iconic inshore game fish.
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove snapper provide fast-paced action and excellent taco meat. Found around mangroves, bridges, and reef structure, they’re fun for everyone in the family to catch.
Barracuda
Barracuda are lightning fast predators with explosive strikes and aerial runs. Their aggressive nature makes them an exciting target, whether casting flies or plugs.
Permit
Widely considered one of the most difficult fish to catch on a fly or light tackle, permit are the ultimate flats challenge. Their cautious nature and powerful fights make landing one a true accomplishment for any angler.
Spotted Sea Trout
Spotted seatrout are abundant, fun to catch, and perfect for anglers of all ages and experience levels. They often found in schools over grassy bottom and are extremely aggressive when found in dusty water.
Tripletail
Tripletail are unique fish often found floating beneath crab trap buoys, channel markers, and floating debris. They’re excellent eating and offer exciting sight-fishing opportunities when conditions are right.
The Florida Keys are home to a variety of species of sharks, including lemon sharks, nurse sharks, blacktip sharks, spinner sharks, bonnethead sharks and more. Sharks offers powerful runs, unforgettable battles, and a unique opportunity to experience some of the ocean’s most impressive predators up close. This is an especially fun activity for kids and families.