Key West, Florida might be the best place in the world to plan a saltwater fishing trip. While there are many exoctic destinations in the Caribbean that are worthy of being mentioned, Key West stands out because of its warm climate, excellent fishing options and because of how the town is built for tourism.

If you visit here during the winter, you can escape the colder climates of the north and enjoy the beautiful weather here. If you visit this area during the summer, it will be hot, but fishing is still very good throughout the mornings and most fishermen are off the water by the time it gets very hot. As far as the fishing goes, there really are so many options. The best way to have a successful fishing trip in Key West is to hire a fishing charter. Even if you have your own boat or you rent a boat, hire a charter the first day you are there and learn what spots hold fish. Try to remember the exact spots that hold fish as well as finding out why fish are in those spots. Ask the charters some good questions to learn more about why the fish are there. Are fish coming onto the flats to feed during a high tide? Is the bite better during a falling tide? Are they feeding on crabs, shrimp or bait fish?

By asking some quality questions, you can learn more about why you are catching fish in that spot and it will help you when you venture out on your own. If you have the budget to plan a few guide trips while you are there, go ahead and do it. You won't be disappointed. You can experience some outstanding flats fishing for tarpon, permit and bonefish or fish the backcountry for a variety of species such as tarpon, permit, snapper and barracuda. The backcountry offers some beautiful sights as well. You can also fish offshore by trolling or targeting the reefs and wrecks.

Are you ready to fish Key West yet? To get more information on fishing charters, lodging and more, take a look at our Key West visitor guide.