Fly Fishing the Florida Keys & Everglades in February
February Weather Patterns in the Florida Keys & Everglades
February often marks the slow transition from winter into spring across South Florida. Cold fronts still sweep down from the north, but unlike January, warming trends begin to last longer, creating extended windows of stable weather. These patterns are critical for anglers: colder mornings can push fish into deeper channels and creeks, while warm afternoons often pull them back onto the flats and sunlit shorelines. This shift provides some of the most consistent fly fishing opportunities of the winter season.
Target Species: Snook, Redfish & More
On chilly mornings following a front, snook, redfish, black drum, and sheepshead concentrate in deeper water, where they can be targeted with flies that mimic shrimp or small crabs. As the sun heats the shallows, snook slide out into sandy potholes or along mangrove edges to warm themselves, making them prime sight fishing targets. Redfish follow a similar pattern, often tailing or cruising during afternoon falling tides when water is slightly warmer and more comfortable for feeding.
Everglades Tarpon Fishing in February
One of the most exciting parts of February fly fishing is the arrival of large tarpon in the Everglades. When a warming trend holds steady and water temperatures climb into the low 70s, mature tarpon begin to roll and feed in the backcountry. These opportunities are often short-lived before another front resets conditions, but they can provide some of the best big tarpon fishing of the entire year. While reaching these remote waters can require a long run by boat, the reward of casting flies to 100-pound tarpon in pristine Everglades creeks is unmatched.
Islamorada Bonefishing in February
Closer to Islamorada, bonefish become a highlight species during stable, sunny afternoons. Warming flats can come alive with tailing bonefish searching for crabs and shrimp in shallow water. With clear skies and light winds, this can be some of the most rewarding sight fishing all winter, and it’s a reminder of why Islamorada is known worldwide as the “Bonefish Capital of the World.”
Why February is Special for Anglers
February in the Florida Keys and Everglades is a month of opportunity. The balance of lingering cold fronts and longer warming periods creates variety for anglers—deeper water fishing in the mornings, incredible sight fishing in the afternoons, and even world-class tarpon or bonefish action when conditions align. For fly anglers willing to adapt to the weather, February offers a unique and rewarding mix of winter and early-spring fishing.