Tarpon and snook set up for the Keys' fall transition

What's biting

What's next

Tide swings favor early starts this week. Key West's next high sits near 7:21 AM with the low following at 2:12 PM; up the chain at Marathon, high tide runs 9:54 AM into a 4:42 PM low. Working the moving water around those windows should concentrate bait and predators, especially with the moon waxing toward full, a phase that typically strengthens tidal current and can trigger nighttime tarpon activity under bridge lights.

If the snook bite Sport Fishing Mag describes holds, expect it to build through the week as water continues cooling toward true fall; the redfish activity Salt Strong reported should stay consistent on falling tides across the flats and mangrove edges. Plan around the morning tide swings for the strongest current-driven bite this weekend.

Context

Late September sits at the front edge of the Keys' fall transition, when peak summer heat starts easing and baitfish movement picks up ahead of the winter push. Snook typically ramp up feeding activity this time of year as they stage toward wintering grounds, and bridge tarpon fishing, strong through early summer per Bud n' Mary's reports, usually begins tapering as water cools further into October. Redfish and inshore flats action typically stay productive through the fall months. Check state regulations before harvesting, particularly with federal fishing rules in flux this season.