Florida Keys Fishing Report January 2025: Redfish & Snook Flourish Amid Environmental Concerns

Today, January 9, 2025, the fishing scene in the Florida Keys is looking promising, despite some ongoing concerns about the health of our marine environment. First, let's talk about the tides. For Key West, the first high tide was at 6:47 AM, with a height of 0.82 ft, and the first low tide is at 10:35 AM with a height of 0.45 ft. The second high tide will be at 5:34 PM with a height of 1.81 ft[2]. The weather is mild, with sunrise at 7:13 AM and sunset at 5:56 PM. This time of year, the cooler mornings and evenings make for ideal fishing conditions. Redfish have been active in the back bay waters, particularly around the islands, mangroves, dock lines, and oyster bars. Cut baits like cut threadfins, pinfish, ladyfish, and mullet have been highly effective. Look for mullet and birds during the day to locate these redfish[1]. Snook are also on the move, transitioning to their back bay and upper bay areas as the cooler weather sets in. They are most active early in the morning around bridges, passes, and dock lines. Live baits such as greenbacks, threadfins, and shrimp are working well, especially during the night and early morning hours. As the day progresses, they tend to move to beaches and deeper, shaded shorelines[1]. For those targeting snook, the best times are at night, early morning, or late afternoon when the heat of the day is less intense. Soft plastics and flair hawks are also effective, especially at night[1]. Given the current conditions, hot spots include the passes, beaches, and flats in the upper and back bay areas. The bridges and jetties around John's Pass and Madeira Beach are also producing good results for both redfish and snook. Remember to be cautious with your catches, as there have been reports of odd behavior and deaths among various fish species in the Lower Florida Keys, although these issues are not directly linked to the areas around Key West at this time[3]. Enjoy your day on the water, and tight lines This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.