THE FLORIDA KEYS EDITION
TROPHY TROUT
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FEBRUARY 11-15, 2026
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VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 370
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Nearshore Grocery Shopping TIM BAREFOOT
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anuary marks a shi! in fishing targets, with a focus on species ideal for winter meals. This month traditionally finds anglers pursuing seabass and other nearshore fish, following a tradition passed down from my dad, who favored seabass and flounder for their taste and suitability for freezing. Seabass are not only delicious but also keep well in the freezer, providing a reliable food source throughout the colder months. Flounder, prized for its flavor, remains a favorite for many. While seeking black seabass close to shore, anglers o!en encounter gag grouper, grey trout, and flounder. However, many of these species have strict creel limits, with retention o!en prohibited in regions like North Carolina. To avoid catching undersized or barely legal seabass, using larger bait on a jig is recommended. Live pinfish—ideally the size of a tennis ball or baseball—make exceptional bait. If you have access to a marina’s fish cleaning table, pay attention to discarded scraps, as these can help attract
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pinfish. Setting a pinfish trap or using finely cut scraps to chum and cast net for pinfish are effective methods for securing live bait. This technique is not only excellent for larger seabass but also irresistible to gag grouper. The same structures that attract seabass also hold baitfish such as cigar minnows, sardines, and small snapper. When anchored or spot-locked over structure, keeping a Sabiki rig ready can be invaluable. Keep one person in the boat constantly on the Sabiki providing live baits for the rest of the boat. This will certainly pay dividends. Be mindful of state and federal regulations of what you can and cannot keep, but this tactic catches everything on the reef without exception. The thing I like about pinfish is everything down there will give a live sardine and a live cigar minnow a fatal attack, but only the critters with a large enough mouth and a bold nature will go a!er pinfish or small snapper. The goal is not to catch a hundred fish, but to land a dozen high-quality bites—those worth taking home for dinner. Anywhere south and north of North Carolina, flounder is still on the menu for dinner, and a jig paired with a live cigar minnow is the ultimate flounder catching instrument. Don’t say I didn’t tell you so, but if you take light tackle to some of these nearshore seabass holes, you will lose fish to powerful gags. For nearshore flounder and grouper, opt for heavier tackle—a grouper stick equipped with a four-ounce jig and live cigar minnows or sardines. The other byproduct of this style fishing will be large drum, which tend to congregate on nearshore structure. Don’t be surprised to catch seabass, flounder, gags, and drum in the same spot. Also don’t hesitate to take chunks of crab or sand fleas for sheepshead. January is a winter wonderland, so make the most out of your nearshore grocery shopping by being prepared for all the possibilities. Learn more from Tim Barefoot at barefootcatsandtackle.com.
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he flat was silent. No birds. No bait popping. Only the crunch of frost under my boots and the faint ripple of tide against the shoreline. Every sensible voice in my PHO TO COURT ESY OF KN head said the fish wouldn’t OCKIN TA IL LURES® feed. Then the line jumped—just once— and everything changed. For those who chase speckled trout of larger proportions, one truth becomes painfully clear: big winter trout do not give themselves up easily. Cold water slows their metabolism, feeding windows shrink, and mistakes multiply. Most anglers default to the winter mantra—slow everything down. It’s solid advice… but it isn’t the whole story. Winter trophy trout live in a world of conserving energy. They don’t want to chase far, but they will react violently to the right movement at the right moment. That’s where two tools come together: erratic presentation and precise timing. Let’s start with timing. Like many anglers, I once dismissed solunar tables as folklore. As a kid, I’d scan the fish symbols on the calendar before every trip. More fish meant higher hopes. Fewer fish meant lower expectations. Over time, I saw no real correlation and abandoned the idea. But as I matured into a better saltwater angler—and began truly hunting trophy trout—I returned to solunar tables, this time paired with tides and conditions. The difference was undeniable. These tables aren’t magic. They won’t put fish where they don’t exist. But if you are on fish, they o!en reveal when those fish are most willing to feed. Many anglers assume the “major” bite is always better than the “minor.” Not true. The difference is duration, not intensity. The major typically lasts about two hours, the minor closer to ninety minutes. Either can be explosive. One rule I never break: don’t relocate during a feeding window. On a recent trip, I was grinding through a slow morning and nearly moved on. I checked the time—ten minutes before the bite. I stayed. What followed was an aggressive feed that turned a dead stretch into a trophy-class opportunity. Big trout don’t feed o!en. When they do, you’d better be ready. That brings us to presentation. In winter, I rely on suspending and slow-sinking lures with erratic, nervous action. When I say “slow,” I mean forward movement—not motion. With a so!, whippy rod, I shake the lure in place with almost no forward travel, then let it pause. Shake. Pause. Repeat. This technique works best with braided line, which transmits every movement without stretch. Winter trout may be cold—but when timing and motion align, they don’t just bite… they attack. The strike comes without warning. No tap. No thump. Just sudden, heavy weight and the slow, head-shaking surge of a true gator. In that moment, frozen fingers, long quiet hours, and doubt all vanish. There is only tension in the line and the knowledge that patience, timing, and the right dance delivered the fish you came for. And that’s why we brave the winter. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures,® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
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Pro Tips for Inshore Fishing This Winter
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paddle tails this time of year. Small bucktail jigs and ned rigs are also great choices this time of year. Pro Tip #3 - Slow down your retrieve. Cold fish can’t move as quickly as warm fish can. It’s really that simple. Whatever retrieve you like to use in the summer months, slow it by 50% and that will probably be just about right for winter. CAPT. MIKE SMITH Make sure to bounce your jigs, ned rigs and shrimp will most likely be the shrimp off of the bottom. Fish tend to stay near main forage for these fish in the coldest months. the bottom in winter months. Because fish are cold blooded it is harder Pro Tip #4 - Use longer leaders. Often, for them to digest food when they are cold. It is the water gets gin clear in the winter months. easier on their metabolism to digest a 2-inch fish Because you are retrieving your lures more than a 6-inch fish. slowly, the fish will get a better look at your lines and lures. %is is when a long fluorocarbon leader is the way to go. I like an 8 ft. leader married to a braided line with an FG knot. If you don’t know how to tie an FG knot, then learn. It is a must have part of your fishing arsenal. Why Fluorocarbon? %e benefits of fluoro over monofilament are no stretching and it sinks. Mono stretches and floats. Cold water can be a problem for inshore lure fishermen but it doesn’t have to be. Follow the pro tips above and you will catch more wintertime fish.
anuary and February are the coldest months for humans and for inshore game fish. Both species are moving a little slower and are looking for warmth. Fish have it worse because they are cold blooded. Pro Tip #1 - Find warmer water. Just a couple of degrees can make all the difference between catching and not catching fish during the cold months. Focus on the southern facing shorelines that receive the most hours of sunlight each day. Conversely, avoid fishing shady spots. Start fishing later in the day to allow the sun’s power to heat the water. An especially good time to fish is when low tide coincides with the middle of the day. Shallow water is easier to heat up and it concentrates the fish. If you are fishing during the higher parts of the tide, then you should look for shallow flats that are adjacent to deeper water (8 to 10 ft). Fish seek out shallow water to warm up after spending the night down deep where the water Capt. Bucky Goldman caught this black temperatures are more stable. drum sight casting a live shrimp. Pro Tip #2 - Fish with smaller baits. Most of the prey items available to snook, redfish, Use lures 3 inches or smaller this time of speckled trout, flounder and other predatory fish are small this time of year. Small minnows and year. I love to use 2.75-inch shrimp and 3-inch
Capt. Mike Smith, owner of Fish Your Ass Off Charters, is an inshore fishing guide who has been fishing the inshore waters, oyster bars and grass flats of Florida for more than 40 years. Reach him at (561) 339-2317, email: contact@ fishyourassoff.com or visit fishyourassoff.com.
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FLORIDA 1
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intuitive, connected, and elevated experience for attendees and exhibitors. This evolution reflects extensive planning and thoughtful consideration of what visitors value most, resulting in a footprint that is easier to navigate and more closely aligned with the expectations of today’s marine consumer. A centerpiece of this redesign is the return of the Miami Beach Yacht Collection to Collins Avenue, restoring a signature element of the show that last appeared there in 2018. Yachts will once again line the waterfront along Indian Creek, a setting known for both its beauty and its deep-rooted connection to Miami Beach’s boating culture. The move has already attracted an impressive range of premium yacht brands, creating an environment that naturally supports serious buyers and provides stronger visibility for exhibitors. The Collins Avenue location is surrounded by some of Miami Beach’s most recognized hotels, offering an atmosphere that enhances the luxury of the in-water displays. The show’s new layout also introduces Sailor’s Cove at IGY Yacht Haven Grande Miami, a dedicated destination for the sailing community. This area will showcase sailboats, catamarans, gear, and lifestyle elements in a marina setting specifically designed for hands-on exploration. Upgraded docks, modern amenities, and on-site training from the Annapolis School of Seamanship bring additional depth to the experience. A convenient Park and Ride system will make it easier for visitors to move between Sailor’s Cove and the other primary locations of the show. Across its three main sites, the 2026 show emphasizes accessibility and a seamless flow. A single ticket grants entry to every location, allowing guests to explore everything from boats under 49 feet at the Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park to luxury motor yachts, superyachts, and the full sailing lifestyle across Miami Beach and downtown Miami. Complimentary shuttles, golf carts, and rideshare access support effortless movement between venues. As one of the largest boat shows in the world, the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show continues to strengthen the recreational boating industry and generate significant economic impact for the region. With renewed energy, enhanced connectivity, and an expanded range of he 2026 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show is preparing experiences, the 2026 edition is positioned to deliver a world class showcase of to deliver one of its most transformative editions yet. Returning marine innovation and culture. February 11 to 15 over Presidents Day weekend, the show enters its For more details and ticket options, visit miamiboatshow.com. 85th year with a completely reimagined layout designed to create a more
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Florida Keys Advertise Your Business from Key Largo thru Key West Call 305.280.2021 or email: camflkeys@gmail.com sively ahead of each front. Snook have been tight to the trees on higher tides. I like to work the mangrove edges with a soft plastic or a live pilchard. For redfish, a jighead tipped with a live shrimp on the bottom is still tough to beat, especially around sandy potholes and oyster bars. Seatrout are schooled up on the open flats, drifting and throwing popping corks can keep rods bent all morning. January is prime time for running out into the Gulf, and the winter migration is officially underway. Spanish mackerel, kingfish, cobia, and plenty of sharks are moving through, and they provide non-stop action when the weather cooperates. One of my favorite things to do this month is send a live spanish mackerel out on the kite. The surface explosions from big sharks, tigers, lemons, and blacktips are something every angler should see at least once. And while you’re waiting on the bite, don’t be surprised if a smoker kingfish rockets in and steals the show. January’s weather can change fast. I keep SXM weather running on my chart plotter, not just for the music, but to stay ahead of any fast-moving fronts and wind shifts. Always keep an eye on the forecast, have a backup plan, and respect the conditions. Some of the best fishing happens right before a front, but only if it’s safe to be out there. I also carry a Starr Batt with me on every trip where cell service is sketchy, it is a great investment that will keep you in communication while you are deep in the Glades’ or out away from shore. Stay safe out there! This month delivers a little bit of everything, hot inshore action in the Everglades and fast-paced pelagic fishing offshore. Whether you’re poling the backcountry or chasing mackerel and cobia out in the Gulf, this month offers some By: Capt. Greg Poland unforgettable days on the water. appy New Year, as the first real cold fronts of the year start rolling If you’re looking to get out and enjoy it, give me a buzz and let’s set up a through, January brings some of the best fishing opportunities in the half-day or full-day trip, on your boat or aboard mine. Everglades National Park and the Gulf of Mexico. Mild winter temps, I hope to see you on the dock or out on the H2O. Capt. Greg clean water, and hungry fish make this one of my favorite months to be on the water. The cooler weather has the inshore bite fired up. The mangrove-lined — Visit Capt. Greg at 305.393.3327 or email gregpoland@icloud.com | creeks, deep cuts, and open grass flats are loaded with life this time of year. Instagram: gregpoland Facebook: Fishing in the Florida Keys Snook, redfish, and seatrout are the main players, and they’re feeding aggreswith Capt. Greg Poland
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WAHOO MADNESS By: Capt. Angelia Swanson
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veryone loves to catch a wahoo, and the season is here! Having your drag go screaming with a wild wahoo on the end of your line is one of the most exciting moments in fishing, but what if you had two on? Even better, what about three? I have been pretty darn lucky catching these amazing beasts, but this particular moment I want to share makes a heck of a fish story! My fishing partner and I were out one day trolling hoping for wahoo as always when one hit hard. Have you ever heard of someone referring to a kingfish as a “smoker”? That doesn’t mean that it is good for smoking for fish dip, which by the way they are, it means that it runs so fast that your reel will actually smoke. Well this one that hit was literally smoking my reel! When I pounced on it, I swear that the reel fell apart in my hands. Seriously! I had a handful of rod parts and pieces and bewilderment all over my face, but by that time another line had been hit and my partner was working it hard. Well, as luck would have it, a third line went off and I jumped to that one. While my fishing partner and I were working these fish in tandem a big Sportfishing boat started backing down on us too close for comfort. He had a wahoo on too with a paying client on the reel. But this guy backed down within fifteen feet of our boat, so close we could have a conversation, and not a particularly friendly one. It’s a big ocean. There’s no need to get dangerously close to another boat. But with all of this excitement going on, my partner and I kept masterfully focused on getting these fish to the boat, which we did. It was truly an exhilarating experience. The funny part was, in retrospect, neither one of us to this day can tell you what happened to the fish that hit first and melted a Penn reel right in my hands, which before that day I would have thought impossible. What happened to that first fish? What happened to all of the line? After all of the excitement of another boat backing down on us and getting two nice wahoo in the boat, we truly cannot remember what happened to the first one. Trolling can be boring at times, and you have to muster up a lot of patience some days, but it is experiences like this one that make it all worth it. Memorable moments on the water, especially with two wahoo in the box are days you never forget! So, get out there and catch a Wahoo!
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HAPPY NEW YEAR By: Capt. Bruce Andersen
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s we kick off January, I want to wish everyone a wonderful start to the year and thank you for your continued support. This month marks my 31st season of charter fishing in the Upper Keys, and beginning another year on the water here never gets old. January is one of the most exciting months to fish here in the Florida Keys. Winter brings cooler temperatures, cold fronts, and huge schools of baitfish giving us a wide range of options. From reef fishing to wreck fishing offshore to chasing cobia and spanish mackerel back in the Gulf. But without question, my
favorite winter technique is live bait and kite fishing for sailfish and the other pelagic species that roam the waters just outside the reef. Kite fishing is an experience all its own. Carefully watching your baits on the surface suspended from the kite line while we wait for that bite is something every angler should experience. Sailfish, blackfin tuna, mahi, kingfish, and wahoo all roam these waters and any one of them can make your day. What makes this style of fishing even more thrilling is that we do it on light tackle. Catching these powerful pelagics on the same light gear we use here in the Florida Keys is one of the most exciting things you can do in sportfishing. There’s nothing quite like watching a sailfish tail walk across the surface while you’re connected to him on 12-pound line, or feeling a wahoo make a blistering run nearly to the end of the spool. These moments where everything goes quiet except the scream of the drag, are some of the most exciting experiences you can have on the water. January is the prime month for this kind of action, and the combination of live bait, kites, and winter conditions gives us a real shot at multiple species in a single trip. Whether we’re drifting baits from the kites or slow-trolling lively baits along the edge, every day holds the potential for something unforgettable. If you’ve been thinking about booking a trip, this is the time. I’m grateful to begin my 31st season doing what I love, and I’d be honored to have you aboard The Captain Easy for some incredible winter fishing. Here’s to a great year ahead, and tight lines to all! — www.captaineasycharters.com | You can reach Captain Bruce Andersen at Capt. Easy Charters, MM 85, call 305.360.2120 or email at: captbrucekey@comcast.net
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FLORIDA KEYS 5
Capt. Joel’s
FISHIN’ HOLES
By: Capt. Joel Brandenburg
H
ope everyone had a wonderful holiday season! My family and I are all healthy and happy. As I’ve stated in some past articles, I fish 300 days a year so I can afford to hunt the other 65. I had some great hunts this season in Georgia and the Midwest. Met some awesome people, stayed at some gorgeous log cabins, lodges, farm houses, and plantations and got to harvested some monster bucks. I love eating venison, but I’m more of a trophy hunter than a meat hunter. Our fishing clients come down to the Florida Keys with many different expectations. Some folks are meat anglers and want to catch a cooler or two of tasty fish. Some come down looking for variety, and it’s not rare for us to catch 10 or 20 different species in a day. We even have a lot of guests who want to spear fish, rod and reel fish, and catch lobster in a single day. Then we have people who want to target a specific fish. They don’t care how many, they don’t care how big, they just want to check that fish off of their bucket list. Then we have others who are trophy anglers, they are looking for a large game fish that they can mount and add to their trophy room. Then there are some that want it all and all I can say is, we’ll do our best. My mama told me, I tell my children, and we teach our grandson the old rhyme “good better best never let it rest till you’re good is better and you’re better is best.” Nowadays with AI and ChatGPT, readers care less and less about what Captains write about. If you want to read about wahoo, you
* Make a full day out of it * Choose a captain with a proven record, and it doesn’t hurt to check out his/her past tournament wins and placements * Choose a boat that’s comfortable, safe, has all the latest and greatest electronics and gear * Be patient, plan your work and work your plan. * 99% of the day whether you’re hunting or fishing for the monster is just hunting or fishing. When that 1% of the time comes to harvest the fish or animal your personal performance matters. Make the shot count, don’t give the fish slack, don’t drop your rod and don’t reel against the drag. Land the monster first and celebrate second. Don’t celebrate first. It’s not yours until the body hits the floor. Or in some cases, a leader touch. * Be where the monsters are. Keep your head on a swivel and expect the unexpected. *Don’t be afraid of fishing in big waves or bad weather “big waves, big fish” and “If it’s blowing, your still going” as long as you have a vessel that can safely handle poor conditions.
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JANUARY 2026
can ask ChatGPT to write you a 600-word article about how to catch wahoo in the Florida Keys and make sure to include techniques and secrets. ChatGPT would write an article 10 times more informative and intriguing than anything I could write, however, the thing I keep reminding myself is that you can’t beat experience, you can’t buy experience as you have to experience it. Therefore, when I write an article, I’m giving you my personal experience from the heart not the computer. This hunting season I shot the biggest buck of my life. I was in a tree stand. The buck came out right under me, right at legal shooting light even though the light was dim and the fog was heavy. I could tell it was a shooter. I used my 30-yard pin by the time he got broadside. Unfortunately, he was only 20 yards away when I shot. My shot was high, and I could tell by my lighted knock that I hit him higher than I wanted to behind the shoulder. My buddies and I searched for him for over nine hours in the daylight. When night came, I called in a thermal drone service. He came out to the farm launched the drone and the direction we thought the buck may be and we found him in five minutes. Just like fishing, it it’s a trophy fish because it’s a fish that’s hard to fool and debiting your hook, then it’s a hard fish to get to the surface and hard to eventually land. What seems funny to me is that I remember the ones that got away much more than I remember the ones that we landed! The getaways literally haunt me. I have nightmares about them. I look at our Marathon monsters as the big five in this order: blue marlin, swordfish, wahoo, swordfish, bull dolphin(slammer mahi). The big five all have one thing in common which is you have to dedicate your time to targeting them. Like sitting in a tree stand for hours waiting for the 12-point buck. Sometimes you can do all the right things and the monster never shows up. Sometimes you can do all the wrong things and you get five different shots at the monster. Here are my recommendations on having the best chance of finding your monster in Marathon.
Have a great 2026 year and may it be filled with a lot of excitement and great memories! — For a charter with Capt. Joel Brandenburg owner/operator of Ana Banana Fishing company in Marathon Florida Keys call or text 305–395-4212 office or 813– 267–4401. Or visit us in person at poncho’s fuel dock located at 1280 Ocean View Ave. Marathon, Florida Keys.
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JANUARY 2026
FLORIDA KEYS 7
TIDE CHART KEY LARGO
www.USHarbors.com
Key Largo, South Sound, FLJANUARY - Jan 2026 2026 High
Date
TIDE CHART ISLAMORADA
www.USHarbors.com
Islamorada, Florida Bay, FLJANUARY - Jan 2026 2026
Low
High
Date
Low
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Thu
9:35
0.3
8:24
0.7
3:59
-0.2
2:56
0.1
7:07
5:44
2
Fri
10:22
0.3
9:21
0.8
4:52
-0.2
3:51
0.1
7:07
5:45
3
Sat
11:05
0.3
10:15
0.8
5:41
-0.2
4:45
0.1
7:07
5:46
5:45
4
Sun
11:45
0.3
11:08
0.7
6:27
-0.2
5:38
0.0
7:08
5:46
7:07
5:46
5
Mon
12:23
0.4
7:11
-0.2
6:32
0.0
7:08
5:47
-0.1
7:08
5:47
6
Tue
1:00
0.4
7:53
-0.1
7:28
0.0
7:08
5:48
7:15
-0.1
7:08
5:47
7
Wed
12:47
0.6
1:37
0.4
8:34
-0.1
8:29
0.1
7:08
5:49
0.0
8:06
-0.1
7:08
5:48
8
Thu
1:36
0.5
2:15
0.5
9:15
0.0
9:34
0.1
7:08
5:49
8:28
0.1
8:58
0.0
7:08
5:49
9
Fri
2:27
0.5
2:55
0.5
9:55
0.1
10:45
0.1
7:08
5:50
1.3
9:22
0.2
9:50
0.0
7:08
5:50
10
Sat
3:27
0.4
3:39
0.5
10:37
0.1
11:56
0.0
7:09
5:51
2:56
1.2
10:18
0.3
10:44
0.0
7:08
5:50
11
Sun
4:48
0.3
4:29
0.5
11:21
0.1
7:09
5:51
1.2
3:49
1.2
11:15
0.3
11:37
0.0
7:08
5:51
12
Mon
6:33
0.2
5:24
0.5
1:07
0.0
12:09
0.2
7:09
5:52
4:49
1.2
4:45
1.2
12:09
0.3
7:08
5:52
13
Tue
8:00
0.2
6:21
0.5
2:13
0.0
1:02
0.2
7:09
5:53
Wed
5:44
1.3
5:40
1.2
12:28
0.0
12:59
0.3
7:08
5:52
14
Wed
8:56
0.2
7:14
0.5
3:11
-0.1
1:56
0.2
7:09
5:54
15
Thu
6:35
1.3
6:31
1.2
1:16
0.0
1:47
0.3
7:08
5:53
15
Thu
9:34
0.2
8:03
0.5
3:59
-0.1
2:47
0.1
7:09
5:54
16
Fri
7:20
1.4
7:19
1.3
2:01
-0.1
2:30
0.2
7:08
5:54
16
Fri
10:04
0.3
8:48
0.6
4:39
-0.1
3:32
0.1
7:09
5:55
17
Sat
8:03
1.4
8:03
1.3
2:43
-0.1
3:11
0.1
7:08
5:55
17
Sat
10:32
0.3
9:31
0.6
5:15
-0.2
4:13
0.1
7:08
5:56
18
Sun
8:43
1.5
8:46
1.4
3:22
-0.2
3:50
0.1
7:08
5:56
18
Sun
11:01
0.3
10:12
0.6
5:47
-0.2
4:53
0.1
7:08
5:57
19
Mon
9:22
1.5
9:28
1.4
4:01
-0.2
4:28
0.0
7:08
5:56
19
Mon
11:30
0.3
10:53
0.6
6:19
-0.2
5:33
0.1
7:08
5:57
20
Tue
10:00
1.5
10:10
1.4
4:39
-0.2
5:05
0.0
7:07
5:57
20
Tue
11:59
0.4
11:34
0.6
6:49
-0.1
6:14
0.0
7:08
5:58
21
Wed
10:37
1.5
10:53
1.4
5:17
-0.2
5:44
-0.1
7:07
5:58
21
Wed
12:29
0.4
7:20
-0.1
7:00
0.0
7:08
5:59
22
Thu
11:15
1.5
11:38
1.4
5:58
-0.1
6:24
-0.1
7:07
5:59
22
Thu
12:17
0.6
1:00
0.4
7:52
-0.1
7:50
0.0
7:08
6:00
23
Fri
11:54
1.5
6:43
-0.1
7:09
-0.2
7:07
5:59
23
Fri
1:02
0.5
1:32
0.5
8:25
0.0
8:48
0.0
7:07
6:00
24
Sat
12:27
1.4
12:37
1.4
7:32
0.0
8:00
-0.2
7:07
6:00
24
Sat
1:52
0.4
2:07
0.5
8:59
0.0
9:54
0.0
7:07
6:01
25
Sun
1:21
1.4
1:25
1.3
8:28
0.1
8:57
-0.2
7:06
6:01
25
Sun
2:53
0.3
2:48
0.5
9:37
0.1
11:08
-0.1
7:07
6:02
26
Mon
2:21
1.4
2:23
1.3
9:31
0.1
10:02
-0.2
7:06
6:02
26
Mon
4:16
0.3
3:42
0.5
10:20
0.1
7:07
6:03
27
Tue
3:29
1.4
3:30
1.3
10:39
0.2
11:09
-0.2
7:06
6:02
27
Tue
6:03
0.2
4:51
0.5
12:26
-0.1
11:15
0.1
7:06
6:03
28
Wed
4:40
1.4
4:42
1.3
11:48
0.1
7:05
6:03
28
Wed
7:38
0.2
6:09
0.6
1:45
-0.2
12:23
0.1
7:06
6:04
29
Thu
5:47
1.5
5:51
1.4
12:16
-0.3
12:52
0.1
7:05
6:04
29
Thu
8:41
0.2
7:21
0.6
2:57
-0.2
1:37
0.1
7:05
6:05
30
Fri
6:48
1.5
6:54
1.5
1:18
-0.3
1:52
0.0
7:04
6:04
30
Fri
9:28
0.2
8:25
0.6
3:57
-0.2
2:47
0.1
7:05
6:06
31
Sat
7:41
1.6
7:50
1.6
2:15
-0.4
2:47
-0.1
7:04
6:05
31
Sat
10:07
0.3
9:22
0.7
4:46
-0.2
3:49
0.0
7:05
6:06
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Thu
6:59
1.7
7:02
1.6
1:29
-0.3
2:03
0.0
7:06
5:43
1
2
Fri
7:54
1.8
7:59
1.7
2:25
-0.4
2:58
0.0
7:07
5:44
3
Sat
8:46
1.8
8:53
1.7
3:19
-0.4
3:51
-0.1
7:07
5:45
4
Sun
9:35
1.8
9:45
1.7
4:12
-0.4
4:43
-0.1
7:07
5
Mon
10:22
1.8
10:36
1.7
5:03
-0.4
5:34
-0.1
6
Tue
11:07
1.7
11:27
1.6
5:54
-0.3
6:25
7
Wed
11:52
1.6
6:44
-0.2
8
Thu
12:17
1.5
12:36
1.5
7:35
9
Fri
1:07
1.4
1:20
1.4
10
Sat
2:00
1.4
2:06
11
Sun
2:54
1.3
12
Mon
3:52
13
Tue
14
1
SNORKEL SNORKEL * ** SANDBAR SANDBAR SANDBAR * ** SUNSET SUNSET SUNSET ** * FISHING CHARTERS FISHINGCHARTERS CHARTERS FISHING
Moon
Trips daily. Two Convenient locations
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Trips TwoConvenient Convenient locations Trips daily. locations indaily. theTwo heart of Islamorada! in the heartofofIslamorada! Islamorada! in the heart Call: 305-747-8651
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book online: clearlyuniquecharters.com book online: clearlyuniquecharters.com 8 FLORIDA KEYS
JANUARY 2026
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Moon
TIDE CHART
KEY COLONY BEACH www.USHarbors.com
Key Colony Beach, FL - JanJANUARY 2026 2026 High
Date
Low
TIDE CHART KEY WEST
Key West, FL - Jan 2026
High
Date
www.USHarbors.com
JANUARY 2026
Low
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
8:56
0.8
7:45
2.0
1:52
-0.6
12:49
0.4
7:11
5:50
Fri
9:43
0.8
8:42
2.0
2:45
-0.7
1:44
0.3
7:11
5:50
Sat
10:26
0.9
9:36
2.1
3:34
-0.7
2:38
0.2
7:11
5:51
Sun
11:06
0.9
10:29
2.0
4:20
-0.6
3:31
0.1
7:12
5:52
5
Mon
11:44
1.0
11:19
1.9
5:04
-0.5
4:25
0.1
7:12
5:53
5:50
6
Tue
12:21
1.1
5:46
-0.3
5:21
0.1
7:12
5:53
7:09
5:51
7
Wed
12:08
1.7
12:58
1.2
6:27
-0.1
6:22
0.1
7:12
5:54
0.2
7:09
5:51
8
Thu
12:57
1.5
1:36
1.3
7:08
0.0
7:27
0.2
7:12
5:55
7:47
0.2
7:10
5:52
9
Fri
1:48
1.2
2:16
1.3
7:48
0.2
8:38
0.2
7:12
5:55
0.4
8:51
0.2
7:10
5:53
10
Sat
2:48
1.0
3:00
1.3
8:30
0.3
9:49
0.1
7:12
5:56
8:40
0.5
9:54
0.2
7:10
5:53
11
Sun
4:09
0.8
3:50
1.3
9:14
0.4
11:00
0.0
7:12
5:57
1.7
9:32
0.6
10:55
0.1
7:10
5:54
12
Mon
5:54
0.7
4:45
1.3
10:02
0.4
7:13
5:58
4:42
1.7
10:26
0.6
11:49
0.0
7:10
5:55
13
Tue
7:21
0.6
5:42
1.4
12:06
-0.1
10:55
0.5
7:13
5:58
1.1
5:38
1.7
11:18
0.5
7:10
5:56
14
Wed
8:17
0.6
6:35
1.4
1:04
-0.2
11:49
0.4
7:13
5:59
7:03
1.1
6:30
1.8
12:38
-0.1
12:07
0.4
7:10
5:56
15
Thu
8:55
0.6
7:24
1.5
1:52
-0.3
12:40
0.4
7:12
6:00
Fri
7:45
1.2
7:17
1.9
1:21
-0.1
12:51
0.4
7:10
5:57
16
Fri
9:25
0.7
8:09
1.6
2:32
-0.4
1:25
0.3
7:12
6:00
17
Sat
8:24
1.3
8:01
2.0
2:00
-0.2
1:33
0.3
7:10
5:58
17
Sat
9:53
0.7
8:52
1.6
3:08
-0.4
2:06
0.3
7:12
6:01
18
Sun
9:01
1.4
8:43
2.0
2:37
-0.3
2:14
0.2
7:09
5:59
18
Sun
10:22
0.8
9:33
1.7
3:40
-0.4
2:46
0.2
7:12
6:02
19
Mon
9:37
1.5
9:23
2.1
3:13
-0.3
2:55
0.2
7:09
5:59
19
Mon
10:51
0.9
10:14
1.7
4:12
-0.4
3:26
0.2
7:12
6:03
20
Tue
10:12
1.5
10:03
2.0
3:47
-0.3
3:36
0.1
7:09
6:00
20
Tue
11:20
1.0
10:55
1.7
4:42
-0.4
4:07
0.1
7:12
6:03
21
Wed
10:47
1.6
10:45
2.0
4:22
-0.2
4:20
0.1
7:09
6:01
21
Wed
11:50
1.1
11:38
1.6
5:13
-0.3
4:53
0.1
7:12
6:04
22
Thu
11:21
1.7
11:30
1.8
4:58
-0.1
5:07
0.0
7:09
6:02
22
Thu
12:21
1.2
5:45
-0.2
5:43
0.0
7:12
6:05
23
Fri
11:55
1.7
5:35
0.0
5:59
0.0
7:09
6:02
23
Fri
12:23
1.4
12:53
1.3
6:18
-0.1
6:41
-0.1
7:11
6:06
24
Sat
12:20
1.7
12:33
1.8
6:15
0.1
6:58
-0.1
7:08
6:03
24
Sat
1:13
1.2
1:28
1.3
6:52
0.0
7:47
-0.1
7:11
6:06
25
Sun
1:16
1.4
1:17
1.8
6:59
0.2
8:03
-0.2
7:08
6:04
25
Sun
2:14
0.9
2:09
1.4
7:30
0.2
9:01
-0.2
7:11
6:07
26
Mon
2:22
1.2
2:11
1.8
7:51
0.3
9:14
-0.2
7:08
6:05
26
Mon
3:37
0.7
3:03
1.4
8:13
0.2
10:19
-0.3
7:11
6:08
27
Tue
3:40
1.1
3:15
1.9
8:53
0.4
10:26
-0.3
7:07
6:05
27
Tue
5:24
0.5
4:12
1.5
9:08
0.3
11:38
-0.4
7:10
6:09
28
Wed
5:04
1.0
4:27
1.9
10:01
0.4
11:34
-0.4
7:07
6:06
28
Wed
6:59
0.5
5:30
1.5
10:16
0.3
7:10
6:09
29
Thu
6:18
1.1
5:39
2.0
11:08
0.3
7:07
6:07
29
Thu
8:02
0.6
6:42
1.6
12:50
-0.5
11:30
0.3
7:09
6:10
30
Fri
7:16
1.2
6:45
2.1
12:35
-0.5
12:11
0.2
7:06
6:07
30
Fri
8:49
0.6
7:46
1.8
1:50
-0.6
12:40
0.2
7:09
6:11
31
Sat
8:04
1.3
7:44
2.2
1:29
-0.5
1:09
0.1
7:06
6:08
31
Sat
9:28
0.7
8:43
1.8
2:39
-0.6
1:42
0.1
7:09
6:11
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Thu
7:23
1.4
6:49
2.3
12:43
-0.5
12:22
0.3
7:08
5:46
1
2
Fri
8:16
1.4
7:47
2.4
1:39
-0.6
1:17
0.2
7:08
5:47
2
3
Sat
9:03
1.5
8:42
2.5
2:31
-0.6
2:11
0.1
7:09
5:48
3
4
Sun
9:48
1.6
9:35
2.4
3:21
-0.5
3:05
0.1
7:09
5:48
4
5
Mon
10:31
1.6
10:26
2.3
4:08
-0.4
3:58
0.1
7:09
5:49
6
Tue
11:13
1.7
11:15
2.1
4:54
-0.3
4:52
0.1
7:09
7
Wed
11:55
1.7
5:38
-0.1
5:48
0.1
8
Thu
12:05
1.9
12:36
1.8
6:22
0.1
6:46
9
Fri
12:57
1.7
1:18
1.8
7:05
0.3
10
Sat
1:52
1.5
2:03
1.7
7:51
11
Sun
2:53
1.3
2:52
1.7
12
Mon
4:02
1.1
3:45
13
Tue
5:13
1.1
14
Wed
6:14
15
Thu
16
1
Moon
Thu
Moon
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FLORIDA KEYS 9
THE NEW
YEAR By: Jessica Hendrie
A
s the calendar flips to a new year, anglers everywhere feel that familiar spark of hope, that this is the year to land the fish we’ve been dreaming about. Whether you chase billfish offshore, bass in the lakes, or anything that bends a rod, the New Year is the perfect time to set intentions that make every trip on the water more meaningful. My personal goal this year is to catch a marlin in the country of Panama! Although one of the best resolutions anyone can make is simply to slow down and enjoy the process! Too often, we get caught up counting catches, measuring inches, and comparing photos even though those are still fun themselves. This year, I will be committing to appreciating the hobby over what I can show I did. Something else I challenge you to do this year is to learn something new. We tend to get stuck in our ways thinking we know how to do it, we’ve been doing it for years, however, try to learn a new way, and who knows, it may even lead to more fish in the boat. For all of us who dream big, 2026 can be a year of firsts, bucket list catches and overall experience. Saying all of this brings me to the most important task this year, fish more with people who matter. Invite a friend who’s never been or who’s never even held a fishing pole, take someone who only fishes offshore to a lake, or even schedule that big 2-day fishing trip with your best fishing partner. At the end of the year, that is what you will reflect on and it’ll be pretty cool if you catch fish too. So, here’s to a new year of bent rods, tight lines, and new memories!
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CATCH AND DINE By Caitlyn Gatrell
ere in the Everglades Backcountry, we have a large variety of species that frequent our waters. Some hang out year-round and others come and go. One thing for sure, the marine life is very abundant, making for some excellent fishing opportunities. To make it even better, if you’re a seafood lover, you can keep some of your catches! I mean seriously, nothing’s better than a truly fresh meal, one that you caught yourself! Before you head out there, just note that you must have a valid fishing license, even if you’re just here temporarily. In addition, not every species is allowed to be kept, with some even having rules about being out of the water. It is important to be aware of what you are allowed to keep and what to throw back! Also, the species that are allowed to be kept may have various seasons, bag and size requirements, and further restrictions as well. Check with FWC (you can check online easily!) and ensure what’s open when you plan to fish and keep catches. There’s a couple species I can attest for down here, with one being mangrove snapper. These aren’t trophy catches, however their numbers are pretty high down here and you can find plenty of honey holes carrying plenty of them. With that being said, mangrove snapper over 10in are allowed to be
harvested with up to 5 per person each day. The fillets are small, but they are juicy enough for some good fish bites! And if you have enough you can definitely make a tasty meal. Another beloved, tasty fish we have down here are redfish! These fish are open year-round in our region, but only 2 fish per vessel are allowed. You also have to make sure they are in the slot range of 18 to 27 inches, which isn’t too hard to find down here. This time of year, brings out some of the best chances at finding and hooking up to them. An angler, and even non-anglers favorite, snook, is a little harder to keep. The fillets are very meaty and delicious, making it a popular meat amongst some of the others. With snook, you can keep one fish between 27 to 33 inches, per person per day. They do have two closed seasons though, one from December 1st to the end of February, and another closed from May 1st to September 30th. Of course, there’s more you can discover and keep but these are amongst some of the most sought after. You can work an enticing lure or throw a live or cut bait near the mangroves, flats, oyster beds, and flowing currents to find these fish. Once you get your hands on a fresh, clean, and delicious fillet, you’ll want to keep catching your own rather than buy from the store! Sounds like a win to me! 2025
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If you have a catch to brag about send your picture and caption to: flkeys@coastalanglermagazine.com
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Islamorada Women’s Sailfish Tournament Jan. 30-Feb. 1
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inter in south Florida brings an awesome collision of ballyhoo and sailfish that makes for some of the best fishing of the year. It’s also the time of year for some of the richest and most fun tournaments. If you’re interested, right now is the time to register. Here’s a list of some good sailfish tournament events: JAN. 5-7, 2026 2026 Silver Sailfish Derby Sailfish Marina, Singer Island westpalmbeachfishingclub.org JAN. 9-10, 2026 Fish for Holly Sailfish Tournament Islamorada • fishforholly.com JAN. 14-18, 2026 Operation Sailfish
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Cheeca Lodge, Islamorada www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com
JAN. 20-21, 2026 Islamorada Fishing Club Sailfish Tournament 3rd Event of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship
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uckily, I have never personally been seasick, but I can con!rm that when it gets someone, they look like they legitimately want death. Watching people board the boat in the morning full of personality, and quickly turning into a quiet, helpless version of themselves breaks my heart every time. It’s funny, I’ve taken people !ve miles out in flat calm seas and watched them turn green within an hour, while others can ride out a choppy twelvehour sword!sh trip without a single grimace. Seasickness, or motion sickness, isn’t about toughness. It’s about biology, and knowing how to outsmart it can mean the difference between the trip of a lifetime and one you’d rather forget. At its core, seasickness is your brain throwing a !t over mixed signals. Your inner ear, which controls balance, feels the constant motion of the boat. Your eyes, however, might be locked on the deck or a smartphone, telling your brain that you’re not moving. This mismatch can confuse the body enough to trigger nausea, cold sweats, dizziness, and that unmistakable “I need the rail” moment. The good news is that you can do a lot to keep it from happening, or at least keep it from ruining your day. Start the night before. One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is showing up tired, dehydrated, and with nothing in their stomach. Lack of sleep makes your body more sensitive to motion. Drink plenty of water the day before and have a balanced dinner, nothing too greasy or heavy. And go easy on alcohol, nothing gets people
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon faster than being hungover. Eat before you board. An empty stomach is not your friend at sea. Eat a light breakfast with complex carbs and protein; think a bagel with peanut butter or scrambled eggs with toast. Skip the spicy breakfast burrito...you’ll thank me later. Pick your spot wisely. The closer you are to the boat’s center, the less movement you’ll feel. On smaller boats, this often means staying near the console or midship. If you’re anchored or drifting, facing into the wind can help you get fresh air, and fresh air is one of your best allies. Whatever you do, don’t lay down and close your eyes, no matter how much you’d prefer to be in the fetal position, this is your enemy. Keep your eyes on the horizon. Your inner ear is telling your brain you’re moving, and your eyes need to con!rm it. Locking your gaze on the horizon gives your brain consistent information and can stop the mixed-signal meltdown before it starts. Avoid the downward spiral. Once seasickness takes hold, it can be hard to shake. If you feel that !rst wave of queasiness, act fast. Get to fresh air, keep your head up, and focus on a !xed point.
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, The Florida Keys. (504) 920-6342. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
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Know your aids. There are plenty of over-the-counter and prescription remedies, from Dramamine and Bonine to scopolamine patches, but timing matters! Take them before you step aboard, or even get them in your system the night prior to a trip. Ginger candies, wrist acupressure bands, and peppermint gum can also help. Respect your limits. If you know you’re prone to seasickness, tell your captain ahead of time. We’d much rather work with you to make your trip comfortable than see you suffer in silence. Lastly, if you do need to heave, please try to do it downwind of the captain. I dont care if its all over the boat, but truly, I have been puked on more times than I’d like to admit. To the client who got me right in the mouth from 10 feet away on a windy trip, 10/10 for accuracy, but I’d rather not be handing out those awards. Seasickness is nothing to be embarrassed about as even seasoned captains have had their moments. The key is to prepare, listen to your body, and take action early. The ocean is an incredible place, and a little planning can make sure you enjoy every second of it, without clinging to the rail.
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Adjusting to Post-Front Bass
water temperatures. Since Florida lakes, where I’m located, are shallow and cool down quickly PRO ANGLER JOEY BLOOM in the wind, I spend extra time searching for protected areas—canals, marinas, or creek arms—that retain warmth longer. Even a slight increase of a couple degrees can spark !sh activity. I’ve often seen a quiet stretch come hen a powerful cold front sweeps a shaky head or Texas rig along alive after the sun heats it up by midday. across your location, bass !shing grass lines, letting Bait Cave’s lifelike action do If you’re !shing grass-rich lakes, concentrate conditions can shift dramatically the work. That realistic movement and high- on dense vegetation near deeper water—look overnight. A reliable shallow bite can vanish by for hydrilla edges, reeds, or mats. These zones the following morning as water temperatures trap heat and provide bass a sense of safety. I plummet, skies clear, and previously gentle love flipping a Bait Cave Customs creature bait south winds turn into chilly gusts from the into that thick stuff with a heavy rod and braid, north, stripping warmth from the lakes. staying alert for subtle bites that follow a cold Consistency as a bass angler hinges on knowing front. how to adjust your approach after these fronts As the day warms and the barometric move through. pressure stabilizes, don’t rule out reaction baits. My !rst reminder after a cold front is A suspending jerkbait or lipless crankbait can simple: the !sh haven’t gone anywhere—they’ve entice suspended !sh that aren’t chasing much just changed their mood and location. Most else. largemouth bass dislike cold, high-pressure Cold fronts can be humbling, but they also weather, so they slide off the banks, tuck tighter teach adaptability. Every front is a learning into cover, or suspend near feeding areas. opportunity. Be patient, trust your instincts, Recognizing these subtle changes can turn a and use your con!dence baits—my favorites challenging day into a productive one. are Bait Cave Customs soft plastics and the Returning to productive spots after a front, gear I pick up from Copper State Tackle’s new I slow down and target slightly deeper water. Inverness, Fla. location. If you’re near there, If I had success with moving baits in two feet check out their shop—they have everything you of water before, I’ll now !sh four or !ve feet need to stay prepared for any conditions. deep with more subtle lures. This is when I rely on my con!dence baits—especially the Joey Bloom is a 2024-2025 National Professional soft plastics from Bait Cave Customs. Their quality construction make a big difference Fishing League Tournament Pro. Follow his stick baits and !nesse worms are essential for during tougher bites. fishing and fun on Instagram, Facebook, my cold-front strategy. I’ll drag one slowly on Another important tactic is seeking stable and YouTube at Joey Bloom Fishing.
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FISHING FOR A GREAT GETAWAY? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN USVI!
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hat you really need to cure those winter blues is a little sun and sand, beaches and rainforests, music and culture, food and fun. And no place delivers the rhythms of the Caribbean quite like St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. ST. THOMAS: St. Thomas’ location near an undersea canyon makes it one of the best places in the world to catch massive !sh—we’re talking up to 350 pounds or more! Inshore, offshore and deep-sea !shing charters like Offshore Adventures and Double Header Sportfishing offer half or full-day excursions into waters teeming with blue marlin, yellow!n tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi and more. Or if you’d rather combine a little work and play, Virgin Islands Sportfishing can customize a trip that includes plenty of !shing, plus a place to stop for cocktails to celebrate your big catch. For an adventure to remember, book a trip to Coral World Ocean Park, where you can scuba dive or swim with dolphins, sea lions and turtles. (Guides are provided and no certi!cations are required). The park’s 5 acres also include aquariums, outdoor pools, nature trails and other marine experiences. The littles on your list will never forget a trip to the hands-on Pirates Treasure Museum, where kids (and kids at heart) can steer a virtual pirate ship through a storm, learn all about submarines
and even search for pirate booty — before scoring their own pirate-themed merch in the museum gift shop, of course. ST. CROIX: The outdoors and history blend beautifully on St. Croix. Thrill-seekers can fuel their adrenaline rush with a ride on the Carambola Zip Line, which delivers a heart-pounding 200-foot vertical drop before racing 2,500 feet across a lush tropical valley. You can also explore some of the island’s more remote reaches on a two-hour Gecko’s Island Adventures guided ATV tour through trails and forests you simply can’t access by car. These treks require a sense of adventure combined with a little grit, but the stunning views that await are oh, so, worth it. Those wanting a more relaxing vacation will love exploring St. Croix’s historical towns, where you can wander among buildings that haven’t changed much in hundreds of years. All of the exploring will work up quite an appetite, so be sure to book a tasty food tour while you’re here! Companies like Virgin Islands Food Tours or Taste of Twin City Food Tour will help you eat and drink your way around town, while a Christiansted Sip & Savor Mixology Class teaches guests how to make three signature cocktails mixed with local Cruzan Rum and tropical ingredients. ST. JOHNS: Don’t be fooled by the smallest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands. St. John
absolutely delivers when it comes to uncrowded beaches, relaxation and unspoiled natural beauty. More forested and less developed than its sister islands, it offers the perfect escape for those looking for a true “check out from civilization” getaway. That seclusion and natural beauty make it one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations for romantic getaways. Book a luxury stay at The Westin St. John Resort Villas or Lovango Resort & Beach Club. Reserve a table at !ne restaurants like ZoZo’s at Caneel Bay or casual joints like Skinny Legs Bar & Grill. Book a Cruz Bay Watersports sunset sail or a Night Kayak glow tour. Another unique way to explore St. John’s pristine beaches is on horseback. Book a ride with Carolina Corral to take a guided trail ride along coral-strewn shorelines before making your way up a sloping hillside that leads to sweeping views of Coral Bay.
NEED MORE INSPIRATION? Check out www.VisitUSVI.com.
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