Keys Bridge Fishing Suggestions? Late January early February

[FrankfromNM]

I am making my first ever trip down to the Keys last day of January thru the 5th of February. I am trying to get some recommendations as to where to fish, what to fish for, and what to fish with. Any information you're willing to share with a guy from the high desert would be greatly appreciated! I do plan to do a couple of party boat trips - probably one from Key West, and one from Islamorada. But, would like to fish the bridges along the way!! Also, is there a good place to get fish identification information? i.e. is it provided where you buy a fishing license? I know the difference between all kinds of trout and salmon, but this is new to me! Thanks!

[chrismb]

Frank,
Most all bait and tackle shops will have fish identification info/charts. Also I have had some good fishing around Indian Key bridge (mainly south end). Catching snook, jacks, mackeral, snapper, and smaller sharks. Live shrimp is always a good bet. I have had some good luck using a MirroLure Top Dog topwater lure (red and white). Around sunrise and sunset with an out going tide might be your best bet with all the bait being flushed out from the bay to the ocean. Enjoy your time down here, and best of luck fishing!

Chris

[FrankfromNM]

Chris, thanks for the info - I'll be sure to check out that spot and pick up a fish ID chart! Do you have a recommendation on the type and size of hooks to use with bait? Thanks again! Frank

[chrismb]

Frank,
I like to use Gamakatsu octopus circle hooks ranging anywhere from 2/0 to 7/0 depending on the size of the bait and the fish species I plan on catching. Also I would recommend using fluorocarbon. And the weight will depend on how fast the current is moving under the bridges. There are a lot of bridges and spots to fish from Islamorada to Key West. You should have no problem catching fish. Best of luck. -Chris

[edddieo]

Bring your steelhead rod if you want to have a blast size 4 octo hook 20 inches floro, split shot,pail full live shrimp.let them drift slowly hang on good luck

[FrankfromNM]

Thanks, guys! I'll be sure to get some of the recommended hook sizes - and bring a serious rod. Though I've never caught a steelhead, I have caught salmon on my big rods with no problem - including a 12 lb., 31 inch Silver in the Russian River a couple of years ago on a fly; and a 23 inch Dolly Varden. Rod had no problem with them. While I live in a place where I don't need to use some of the reels and rods that I have, they are ALWAYS waiting to be taken on a trip where big fish lurk. Since that Alaska trip, I have been diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, and a trip to the Keys is something I've always wanted to undertake. Since I'm feeling good right now, there is really no time like the present! Also - thanks for the suggestion on using Fluorocarbon.
I've noticed there are party boats that fish out of Islamorada and Key West. If you have any suggestions on which might be the best to take, please share. Thanks again!!!