KEY WEST FISHING REPORT - February 24th 2010

Good news for offshore fishing in the Florida Keys. The Gulf Stream has shifted to only two miles off the southern reef bringing warmer waters and plenty of sport-fish, including Blackfin Tuna, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and sporadic Wahoo. The Mahi Mahi have been the most active species -- our captains reporting that their clients are catching plenty of these fish in the 7 to 25-pound range.

When the Gulf Stream changes position, our captains recognize its new position by the change in the color of the water. Closer to the reef, the waters are more of an emerald hue. We've seen some great success by fishing with live Blue Runners and Threadfin Herring along this border between the Gulf Stream and the coastal waters. Deep sea angling should continue to be excellent while the Gulf Stream remains so near the islands. Two of our charter captains, Tony Miller of the Coolwater and Bill Wallace of the Outcast, have seen their anglers pull in trophy catches lately. Tony led an angler to snag a 74-inch Sailfish. Bill reported catching a 42-pound Wahoo on Monday. He also led a group of anglers to fish for sharks on the Gulf shallows Tuesday afternoon. They caught Black Tips, Lemons, and Bulls by chumming with Barracuda filets.

Tight lines and trophy trips,

Captain Damon Santelli