Islamorada Fishing Report: Backcountry and Offshore Action Heating Up

ISLAMORADA FISHING REPORT - May 16, 2025

Hey there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Friday morning fishing report for Islamorada, the Sportfishing Capital of the World.

The weather today is absolutely beautiful with light winds and clear skies making for perfect fishing conditions. Sunrise was at 6:38 AM and we'll have sunset at 7:52 PM, giving you plenty of daylight hours on the water. Tides are running with a high around mid-morning and another this evening, with a good moving tide throughout most of the day.

The backcountry has been firing on all cylinders this past week. Captains are reporting consistent catches of Sheepshead, Snook, and Speckled Seatrout[1]. If you're heading into the Everglades, you're in for some prime action right now. Several guides mentioned that tarpon are showing up in good numbers too, with Captain Sal putting clients on some beauties just over a week ago[1].

Offshore, the yellowtail snapper bite has been strong, with multiple family charters limiting out[1]. Captain Don has been particularly successful with them, and his clients are learning a lot while they're at it. The reef action has been steady for those looking to fill the cooler.

For the bluewater enthusiasts, sailfish, king mackerel, and tuna have been biting well according to reports from Whale Harbor[2]. Mahi-Mahi (Dorado) are showing up too, with some nice specimens around 16 inches being caught regularly[4].

Best baits right now are live pilchards and threadfin herring for the inshore species. For those yellowtail snappers, fresh cut bait and chum are your best friends. If you're targeting the pelagics, try trolling ballyhoo or using flying fish rigs for the mahi.

As for artificial lures (my namesake!), soft plastic jerkbaits in pearl or chartreuse have been working well for snook, while small bucktail jigs tipped with shrimp are getting it done for the trout and sheepshead.

Hot spots this week include Snake Creek for tarpon, Alligator Reef for yellowtail action, and the humps for those looking for tuna and mahi. Don't overlook the bridges either – there's been some good mangrove snapper action around the pilings.

Most offshore charters are reporting 6-8 good bites per trip with about half of those making it to the boat[3]. Not bad odds for a half-day trip!

Whether you're a shore angler or looking to book with one of our top-notch captains like Rick Stanczyk, Stephen Byrd, or Trentin Leary at Bud n' Mary's Marina[5], there's plenty of action to be had.

That's it for today's report, folks. Remember to release what you don't need and respect our beautiful waters. This is Artificial Lure signing off – tight lines and screaming reels to all of you!