Key West Pro Guides Fishing Report January/February 2026
Surface Temp: Stable seasonal winter pattern
Water Conditions: Clear, warm, consistent
Region: Key West, FL
Guide Team: Key West Pro Guides (full-time owner/operator captains)
January rolled in with calm weather, steady temperatures, and one of the strongest bait supplies we've seen in years. With zero hurricane disruptions last season, water temps stayed consistent, and the pilchards have been thick, fueling a fantastic run of winter action.
From the backcountry to offshore, January is a transition month, shifting us into cooler-water species while still offering tons of light-tackle opportunity for visiting anglers.
Offshore & Deep-Sea Bite
Winter patterns are now taking hold offshore, bringing in the explosive cold-water species that make December such a fun month.
Kingfish (Smokers)
December was the kickoff for big Kingfish, and the first wave of true “smokers” has already shown. They’re holding well offshore with occasional pushes toward the reef line. They spread to the reefs, to the wrecks and most any structure in January and February. They average from the high teens to up to 50lbs!
The Mackerel Family Is Thick
Cero and Spanish Mackerel are here in force big numbers and good size. Great action for anyone who enjoys steady light-tackle bites. Both the reefs and the wrecks are loade d with them. The Cero’s are absolutely awesome to eat too!
Blackfin Tuna
Winter is prime time for Blackfin Tuna, one of the most action-packed bites of winter. When a school lights up on the surface, it’s full chaos in the best way—fast retrieves, drag screaming, nonstop fun, not to mention awesome Sushi.
Wahoo on the Rise
Wahoo action jumps sky high in winter, and fish over 50 lbs aren’t unusual at this time of year. They’re fast, powerful, and some of the best eating fish in the ocean.
Sailfish Building
The Sailfish bite continues to improve heading into January and February, which kicks off the peak stretch lasting through early spring. The numbers of them continue to build with each cold front, it’s awesome!
Mahi (Dolphin) Fading, But Not Gone
Most Mahi migrate out with the cooler water, so think of them as a bonus fish this month. We still see surprise flurries pop up on warm days thanks to the close Gulf Stream.
Barracuda
Large Barracuda are active and aggressive in the winter—excellent targets for sight-casting or high-speed action.
Trip Tip: For offshore runs, we strongly recommend at least a 3/4-day this month to keep travel time from cutting into fishing time. That’s especially true for groups of three or four anglers.
Backcountry & Nearshore Notes
Stable, cooler temperatures mean consistent shallow-water fishing. Morning trips tend to be most productive for anglers wanting to work the basins, channels, and flats. (Backcountry trips are a signature Key West Pro Guides experience .)
Afternoon backcountry trips remain great for families, kids, or anyone who wants calm water and steady action without pushing long distances.
Patch reef fishing is also a strong option in the afternoons, with a good variety.
Sharks continue to be active and plentiful—an absolute blast on light tackle and something most guests can’t experience back home.
Key Species to Target In The Next Two Months
Offshore / Deep Sea
- Sailfish
- Kingfish
- Blackfin Tuna
- Wahoo
- Barracuda
- Cobia
- ermit
Backcountry
- Jacks
- Snapper
- Grouper
- Sharks
Seasonal Outlook
Wintertime brings cooler, but stable water temps, both low and high wind windows, and one of the most comfortable times of the year. With the bait supply as strong as it is, conditions look excellent this winter.
Let’s Go Fishing
Call, text, A.I. chat or email Key West Pro Guides to lock in your holiday or winter trip.
305-747-4650 (Daily 8 AM–9 PM)
Whether you're after high-speed offshore action or a calm backcountry trip with the family, our full-time owner-operator captains are ready to show you why Key West fishing shines in wintertime.
or call (305) 747-4650
