Captain Rick Mager's
Flats Fever Spring Fishing Report, Key West, Florida

Well ole' man winter is history. What little we had of it is gone. The water has warmed up early this year brining in the tarpon. They're not here in big numbers yet, but I've been getting shots at them most every trip.

Last trip out, we released two tarpon, and the biggest one was around 100 pounds. If you can imagine fighting a six-foot fish on 15-pound test, well then you'll know what light tackle is all about. Anyone can fight a fish on heavy tackle. I only use the lightest gear, on the biggest fish! When you've landed a 100-pound tarpon on 15-pound test line, you've done something.

Along with these early tarpon, I've had some good luck with the cobia. Most of these fish seem to be on the small side running about 20 pounds. But even the small fish provide some hard pulling and some great runs. What's great about cobia is they'll eat most anything you throw at them. Plugs, bait, jigs, and flies — they love it all.

Permit fishing has picked up. This time of year, they start showing up more and more on the flats. A lot of these fish at times will move into the deeper channels that crisscross the backcountry flats. These fish are called floaters, and are a little easier to hook up. The shallower the water, the spookier the fish. On a live crab, it's a no-brainer. I use only 12-pound test on these fish, and some of them tip the scales at 30 pounds and up. Hooking a big permit in shallow water on light tackle is the way to go. These fish scream line like nothing else. Well, you'll just have to experience it yourself.

I've seen a few bonefish — they're pretty much elusive. Here today, gone tomorrow. But when you're on the bones, it's always a special treat. I'll set up on the flat, taking wind and tides into consideration, throw out a chum box stuffed with shrimp and just wait for the fun. Some purist fishermen think chumming bones "isn't cricket". Me, I say the hell with the B.S. Polling and walking the flats is all beautiful, but if you want bones, shrimp is the ticket.

That's it for now. For booking and information, please call TOLL FREE 888-574-0178.

Captain Rick Mager
1420 Washington Street
Key West, FL 33040
flatsfever@yahoo.com
888-574-0178 or
(305) 744-8985