Offshore And Inshore Fishing In May

So far this week, my charters have been successful both offshore and in the flats. On the Coolwater, we completed the workweek by heading offshore on Thursday, and staying in Key West Harbor on Friday.

At depth ranging from 300 to 450 feet, I guided a charter to fish for Dorado. This species, also known as Mahi Mahi, has really been running well off the Keys lately. Trolling with ballyhoo beneath diving sea birds and clumps of Sargasso, our deep sea excursion landed nine Dorado, with the largest weighing 40 pounds.

Since the winds picked up offshore, we decided to fish for Tarpon in the harbor with cut bait. On the Coolcast, my anglers landed 4 out of 6 Tarpon, weighing from 50 to 150 pounds.

On Saturday, we'll head out to a rocky reef that local anglers refer to as Permit Patch. This reef earned its nickname because of the masses of Permit that swarm this area while spawning. We're going to take advantage of the spring spawn and try some casting with crab flies.

Tight lines and trophy trips,

Captain Damon Santelli