Key West, FL Marine & Fishing Forecast

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the tides in Key West, FL today?

The Keys have a unique tidal pattern influenced by both the Gulf and Atlantic. Tidal ranges are modest, but current flow through channels and bridges creates strong movement that concentrates bait and triggers feeding.

What is the best time to fish in Key West, FL?

The best fishing near Key West, FL is typically one to two hours before and after each tide change, when moving water flushes bait off flats and through passes. On the Gulf Coast, outgoing tides are often the most productive because they concentrate baitfish in channels and creek mouths.

Is it safe to boat in Key West, FL today?

Check the live wind forecast above for current conditions near Key West, FL. Gulf waters can build steep chop quickly in winds above 15 mph, especially when wind opposes the tidal current. Afternoon sea breezes are common from spring through fall and can increase winds significantly after midday.

What is the water temperature near Key West, FL?

Water temperatures near Key West, FL stay relatively warm year-round, ranging from the upper 60s in winter to the upper 80s in summer. The warm water supports year-round fishing for species like snook, tarpon, and bonefish that are temperature-sensitive elsewhere.

What wind conditions are expected in Key West, FL today?

The wind chart above shows today's hourly forecast for Key West, FL using Open-Meteo weather model data. Along the Gulf Coast, east and southeast winds typically produce the best inshore fishing conditions with cleaner water, while west and southwest winds can push murky water across bays.

Fishing in Key West, FL

Key West is the fishing capital of the Florida Keys and one of the most iconic sportfishing destinations in the world. The surrounding waters offer an extraordinary diversity of fishing: flats fishing for bonefish, permit, and tarpon; nearshore action for snapper, grouper, and cobia; and world-class offshore fishing for blue marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo.

Planning Your Trip

The shallow flats west of Key West — stretching toward the Marquesas Keys and Dry Tortugas — are where the elite "Grand Slam" (bonefish, permit, and tarpon in a single day) is pursued. Permit fishing in particular is exceptional here, with large schools visible on the flats year-round. Tarpon season peaks from March through June when massive schools migrate through the Keys.

Offshore fishing from Key West benefits from the proximity of deep water — the Gulf Stream passes close to the island, bringing warm blue water and the pelagic species that follow it. Spring and summer bring explosive mahi-mahi action. The live weather and current forecast above helps you plan the best days for offshore runs versus flats fishing.

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