The Ultimate Guide to Fly Fishing in Florida

Florida is a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering diverse environments ranging from freshwater lakes and rivers to saltwater flats and estuaries. Whether you’re targeting tarpon, redfish, or largemouth bass, Florida has something for every angler. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover the best fly fishing spots, target species, gear recommendations, and essential tips for a successful trip.

Best Fly Fishing Spots in Florida

1. The Florida Keys

The Keys are legendary for their saltwater fly fishing opportunities, especially for bonefish, permit, and tarpon. Key West, Islamorada, and Marathon are prime destinations for flats fishing.

2. Everglades National Park

This unique ecosystem is home to an abundance of fish, including snook, redfish, and tarpon. The backcountry waters and mangrove-lined shorelines provide excellent fly fishing opportunities.

3. Mosquito Lagoon

Located near the Space Coast, Mosquito Lagoon is one of the best places in Florida to sight-fish for redfish and speckled trout in shallow waters.

4. Tampa Bay

With miles of mangroves and grassy flats, Tampa Bay is a hotspot for snook, redfish, and tarpon. It’s an excellent location for both beginners and experienced fly anglers.

5. St. Johns River

For freshwater fly fishing, the St. Johns River offers excellent largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie fishing. The river is also home to shad runs during the winter months.

6. Indian River Lagoon

This estuary system on the east coast of Florida provides excellent opportunities for redfish, speckled trout, and snook. Shallow water wading and kayak fishing are popular here.

7. Biscayne Bay

Close to Miami, Biscayne Bay is a great spot for targeting bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The clear waters make it a prime area for sight fishing.

8. Lake Okeechobee

For those looking for trophy largemouth bass, Lake Okeechobee is a top-tier destination. The lake is filled with vegetation and structure that holds big bass year-round.

Fishing from Shore vs. Boat

Fishing from Shore

Shore fishing is a great option for those who don’t have access to a boat. Many of Florida’s best fly fishing locations, such as Mosquito Lagoon and Biscayne Bay, offer excellent wading opportunities. Public piers, beaches, and mangrove shorelines provide plenty of accessible spots for fly anglers.

Best Shore Fishing Locations:

• Honeymoon Island State Park (Tampa Bay) – Great for snook and redfish.

• Sebastian Inlet State Park – Known for snook, tarpon, and jacks.

• Fort De Soto Park (St. Petersburg) – A mix of grass flats and beaches for a variety of species.

• Bahia Honda State Park (Florida Keys) – Excellent wading opportunities for bonefish and permit.

Fishing from a Boat

Having access to a boat greatly expands your fishing opportunities in Florida. Whether you rent a skiff, charter a guide, or bring your own, a boat allows you to reach remote flats, deep channels, and secluded mangrove areas where fish are less pressured.

Boat Options:

• Flats Skiffs – Ideal for shallow water fishing in the Florida Keys and Mosquito Lagoon.

• Kayaks & Paddleboards – Great for stealthy approaches in areas like the Indian River Lagoon.

• Bay Boats – Perfect for fishing deeper flats and backcountry areas in the Everglades and Tampa Bay.

• Charter Services – Many locations have experienced guides who can provide boats, gear, and local knowledge.

Target Species, Their Diets, and Best Seasons

Species	Best Season	Diet & Behavior
Tarpon	April - September	Feeds on mullet, crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. Prefers warm waters and migrates along the coast. Often found rolling on the surface.
Redfish	Year-round (Best in Fall)	Eats shrimp, crabs, and baitfish. Often found tailing in shallow flats and grass beds.
Snook	March - October	Prefers shrimp, mullet, and small baitfish. Likes to ambush prey around mangroves, docks, and bridge pilings.
Bonefish	April - October	Feeds on shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Skittish and requires a stealthy approach. Commonly found in shallow, clear flats.
Largemouth Bass	Year-round	Eats frogs, baitfish, and insects. Prefers structure like submerged logs and vegetation. Best fishing during dawn and dusk.
Peacock Bass	Year-round	Feeds on small fish, insects, and crustaceans. Aggressive and territorial, often striking brightly colored flies.

Essential Fly Fishing Gear

Rod and Reel

• Saltwater Fishing: A 7-9 weight fly rod for species like redfish and snook, and a 10-12 weight rod for tarpon.

• Freshwater Fishing: A 5-7 weight rod is ideal for bass and panfish.

Fly Selection

• Saltwater Flies:

• Tarpon: Tarpon Toads, EP Baitfish, Cockroach, Black Death.

• Redfish: Redfish Crack, Shrimp Gurgler, Spoon Fly, Clouser Minnow.

• Snook: Seaducer, EP Baitfish, White Deceiver, Glass Minnow.

• Bonefish: Gotcha, Crazy Charlie, Puff Shrimp, Tan Clouser.

• Freshwater Flies:

• Largemouth Bass: Poppers, Dahlberg Divers, Woolly Buggers, Frog Patterns.

• Peacock Bass: Brightly colored Clousers, Streamers, and Poppers.

• Bluegill & Panfish: Small Poppers, Foam Beetles, and Ant Patterns.

Other Essentials

• Floating and sinking fly lines

• Fluorocarbon leaders and tippet (10-60 lb test depending on species)

• Polarized sunglasses to spot fish in the water

• Sunscreen, hat, and UV-protective clothing

Tips for a Successful Fly Fishing Trip in Florida

• Go Early or Late: Fish are more active during the cooler parts of the day.

• Watch the Tides: In saltwater, fishing around moving tides increases your chances of success.

• Use the Right Presentation: Subtle and natural presentations work best for wary fish like bonefish and tarpon.

• Match the Hatch: Observe the local baitfish and prey, then use flies that mimic them for better results.

• Hire a Guide: If you’re new to fly fishing in Florida, a local guide can help you find fish and refine your technique.

• Respect the Environment: Practice catch and release when necessary and follow all fishing regulations.

Final Thoughts

Fly fishing in Florida offers an unforgettable experience with a variety of species and environments to explore. Whether you’re wading the flats of the Keys or casting for bass in freshwater lakes, Florida has something for every fly angler. With the right gear, techniques, and knowledge of the best fishing spots, you’re sure to have a successful and rewarding adventure.