January Fly Fishing in the Florida Keys & Everglades

Weather Patterns in January

January fishing in the Florida Keys and Everglades is shaped by cold fronts sweeping down from the north. These fronts drop air and water temperatures, often blowing water out of shallow bays and backcountry flats, leaving them nearly dry at low tide. Early mornings can be chilly, and fish respond by stacking in deeper creeks, rivers, and channels where the water is more stable. This concentration of fish creates excellent opportunities for anglers targeting snook, redfish, black drum, sheepshead, and even the occasional tarpon in winter.

Midday Warming and Sight Fishing

As the sun climbs higher and water temperatures rise, fish behavior shifts. Snook begin sliding out of the mangroves into sandy potholes, warming themselves in the sunlight and waiting for prey to swim by. Redfish also feed more actively in the afternoon, especially on a falling tide when the water has warmed just enough for them to feel comfortable. This is when sight fishing shines—anglers can spot trophy snook staged in open potholes or tailing redfish moving slowly across the flats, providing some of the best fly fishing opportunities of the season.

Bonefishing Around Islamorada

Islamorada, known worldwide as the “Sportfishing Capital,” offers another highlight in January—winter bonefishing. On calm, sunny afternoons, bonefish can be spotted tailing or mudding across the hard-bottom flats. These fish become more active as water temperatures stabilize in the upper 60s and low 70s, making them a rewarding challenge for fly anglers. Stalking bonefish in shallow, clear water around Islamorada is one of the most thrilling and technical winter experiences in the Keys.

Tarpon Opportunities in the Everglades

While January is not peak tarpon season, warming trends between cold fronts can spark some of the first tarpon action of the year. Once water temperatures in the Everglades creep into the low 70s, mature tarpon may roll and feed in hidden creeks, rivers, and backcountry basins. These brief windows often deliver some of the most exciting tarpon fishing of the year, though they are short-lived as the next front pushes through and resets the cycle.

Why January Fishing is Special

Fishing in the Florida Keys and Everglades during January offers variety and adventure. From snook and redfish stacked in creeks, to bonefish tailing on Islamorada’s flats, to the chance at early-season tarpon in the Everglades, every trip is unique. The dynamic weather patterns create challenges, but also opportunities that few other months provide—making January one of the most rewarding times to fish South Florida on fly.