Fly Fishing the Florida Keys & Everglades in April
April Weather in the Florida Keys & Everglades
April brings some of the most consistent weather of the year for fly fishing in the Florida Keys. Cold fronts are rare, and steady warming trends dominate, keeping water temperatures stable in the mid to upper 70s. Clear skies, moderate breezes, and reliable tides create perfect conditions for sight fishing. This is the month when the fly fishing season hits its stride, and anglers from around the world travel to Islamorada and the Keys to target one fish above all others—the tarpon.
Oceanside Tarpon Migration
April marks the start of the famous oceanside tarpon migration, one of the most iconic events in saltwater fly fishing. From Key Largo down to Key West, schools of giant tarpon swim in large groups along the oceanside flats, searching for mates and beginning their spawning rituals. As these fish travel, we set up on natural contours, sand bars, and funnel points that force them within casting range. The water is often crystal clear, giving anglers breathtaking shots at hundreds of pounds of silver sliding down the edge.
The Challenge of Tarpon on the Flats
Oceanside tarpon fishing in April is equal parts exhilarating and nerve-racking. Few experiences test an angler’s composure like seeing a massive tarpon swimming directly toward them in shallow water. Success depends on staying calm, making a clean presentation, and feeding the fish the fly with perfect timing. This challenge is what makes April so special: the fishing is difficult, technical, and demanding, but the reward of watching a 100-pound tarpon inhale your fly in clear water is unmatched anywhere in the world.
Flies & Tactics for April Tarpon
In April, small worm flies and shrimp patterns dominate. These natural imitations closely match what tarpon feed on during this time of year and can trigger spectacular eats when placed correctly. Long, accurate casts, subtle presentations, and quick strip-sets are key to success. Every shot is unique—sometimes a single fish peels off a string, other times an entire group rolls and pushes toward the fly. For fly anglers, April is a month of high stakes and unforgettable moments.
Backcountry & Everglades Tarpon Options
While the oceanside migration is the highlight, April also provides excellent tarpon fishing in the backcountry and the Everglades. Warm water and stable weather bring schools of tarpon into bays, channels, and basins where they roll and lay up. These fish are often less pressured and can be more willing to eat than their oceanside counterparts. Running into the Everglades for a day of backcountry tarpon adds variety to the experience and ensures there’s always an option when winds or tides make oceanside fishing more challenging.
Why April is a Bucket-List Month
April in the Florida Keys is considered prime time for tarpon on the fly. From oceanside migrators sliding along white sand flats, to Everglades fish rolling in hidden back bays, the opportunities are endless. It’s a month that attracts seasoned anglers looking for the ultimate test of skill and patience. April combines reliable weather, breathtaking scenery, and the chance to sight fish for the world’s greatest gamefish in its purest form. For many, this is the month that defines fly fishing in the Florida Keys.