The Florida Keys are widely known as the sportfishing capital of the world. Perhaps less well-known is that winter is considered by many locals and experts to be the best fishing season in the Keys. The cooler water and weather draw in a wide variety of iconic gamefish species. Better still, the tourist flock tends to begin in the spring, giving you a chance to beat the rush. With a few tips and some high-performance fishing clothes, a winter trip to the Keys will be the fishing adventure of a lifetime. Here are a few tips to know while you plan your trip.
Get on the Water with a Guide
Many anglers want to strike out on their own when they reach a new fishing territory, and this temptation is stronger the more advanced you are. However, if you aren’t familiar with the Keys, do your best to avoid that temptation. The Florida Keys are as variable and complex an environment as they are rich with aquatic life. Local guides have dedicated decades, often most of their lives, to the region’s best spots, its species, and their habits. While you might have some success going it alone, it doesn’t hurt to head out with a guide for your first few winter trips in the Keys.
Dress the Part
Beyond the world-class fishing and dazzling beauty of the Florida Keys, the fact that the temperature average in the winter hovers around the 70s and 80s certainly contributes to its popularity. However, chilly winds and cooler temperatures are not unheard of. Your best bet is to do as the locals do—pick up some long-sleeve performance fishing shirts and other professional-level apparel. The long sleeves provide coverage from the chill and from the sun’s rays. Plus, first-rate fishing clothes are designed to dry quickly. Being appropriately outfitted also means having the right accessories. Don’t forget a hat, a quality pair of polarized sunglasses, and a performance fishing mask.
Hit the Flats and Do Some Sight-Fishing
Fishing on the flats is an essential part of the Keys fishing experience. In addition to being beautiful, they host a variety of prize gamefish species. They also provide one of those most exciting and challenging angling opportunities—sight-fishing. There’s nothing quite like spotting your fish and enticing it to strike before landing it.
Go for the Classic Gamefish and Less Commonly Sought Species
The Florida Keys are famous around the world for the chance to fish for legendary quarry like sailfish and tarpon. Of course, that fame exists because those fish make for an absolutely exhilarating fishing experience. However, those big names shouldn’t overshadow other less commonly sought but still electrifying angling opportunities. Consider sight-fishing for wary permit or aggressive, hard-fighting barracuda with lightning-fast runs and acrobatic jumps. Break out the flyrod for redfish or see about getting into a big tuna or even a shark. They all represent once-in-a-lifetime fishing dreams that the Keys can unlock.
About Gillz®
You only have one chance when it’s you against the water. That’s why it’s essential to have performance fishing outfits and outdoor apparel that won’t fail you when you need it most. Gillz® offers premium performance products for anglers who live for a long day on the water. No matter the conditions, rain or shine, Gillz performance fishing gear helps you stay cool and dry. The brand is a leading innovator in the outdoor apparel market with its revolutionary GILLZTEC fabric. The fishing clothing offers next-level moisture wicking, keeping you cool and comfortable in summer and cozy in winter. From competitions to a weekend trip to the river, Gillz Gear has you covered.
Take your fishing game to the next level at https://gillz-gear.com/
Original Source: https://bit.ly/3YXPNqF
