Redfish Fishing in Key Largo
Florida
Redfish is one of the species anglers target most around Key Largo, Florida. MyFishingBuds matches you with local anglers who chase Redfish on John Pennekamp reef and Florida Bay / Blackwater Sound so you can share a boat, split costs, and learn the water faster.
74 anglers on MyFishingBuds are targeting Redfish.
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Redfish at a glance
- Scientific name
- Sciaenops ocellatus
- IGFA record
- 94.2 lbs
- Max length
- 65 in
- Preferred water temp
- 55–85°F
About Redfish
The most approachable saltwater inshore fish — hard fighters on shallow flats
→ Full Redfish guide: habits, gear & how to catch themWhen to fish Key Largo
Year-round fishery. Sailfish peak December through March on the cold-front bite offshore. Mahi run the blue water May through August. Yellowtail snapper hold the reef all year, with mutton best around the late-spring full moons. Backcountry redfish, snook, and trout fish best in the cooler, clearer months (November through April). Tarpon move through the channels and bay in spring. Summer is calm and hot with afternoon storms; winter fronts turn on the sailfish and can briefly muddy the backcountry.
→ Today's best fishing times in Key Largo (sunrise, sunset & moon)Where to fish for Redfish in Key Largo
- 📍 John Pennekamp reef
- 📍 Florida Bay / Blackwater Sound
- 📍 Offshore edge (the humps, the ledge)
- 📍 Tavernier Creek
- 📍 Carysfort / Molasses Reef
🪪 Florida fishing license
Anglers targeting Redfish in Key Largo need a valid Florida fishing license. Resident, non-resident, and short-term options are all available — see our complete guide for current 2026 prices and direct purchase links.
Florida fishing license cost 2026 →Redfish in Key Largo: FAQ
Do I need a fishing license to catch Redfish in Key Largo?▾
Yes. Anglers fishing in Key Largo need a valid Florida fishing license (with the right freshwater or saltwater privileges for where you fish). Resident, non-resident, and short-term options are all available — see our Florida guide for current 2026 prices and direct purchase links.
When is the best time to fish for Redfish near Key Largo?▾
Year-round fishery. Sailfish peak December through March on the cold-front bite offshore. Mahi run the blue water May through August. Yellowtail snapper hold the reef all year, with mutton best around the late-spring full moons. Backcountry redfish, snook, and trout fish best in the cooler, clearer months (November through April). Tarpon move through the channels and bay in spring. Summer is calm and hot with afternoon storms; winter fronts turn on the sailfish and can briefly muddy the backcountry.
How do I find a Redfish fishing buddy in Key Largo?▾
Create a free MyFishingBuds profile, set Redfish as a target species, and pick Key Largo as your area. You'll be matched with nearby anglers who target the same species and fish a similar style, so you can plan a trip, share a boat, and split the costs.
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Other species to target in Key Largo
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