Fly Fishing & Light Tackle in Key West
Key West, Florida
Private trip guided by Johan
Emerald Water Angling • 6-9 years of experience
About
Specializing in fly fishing and light tackle, Capt. Johan targets permit, bonefish and tarpon. The Lower Keys stretch approximately 30 miles as the crow flies between Big Pine Key and Key West, and the fly fishing extends out to the Marquesas, another 20 miles west of Key West, creating over 300 square miles of habitat for fly fishing tarpon, permit, and bonefish year-round.
Not all days on the water will start and end at the same time, and Johan will determine when and where to meet, as well as use his discretion when it may be unsafe to be out there. Capt Johan will reach out prior to your trip to finalize details and logistics.
Cost of fishing license is included in your trip price. A cooler with ice will be provided, and tackle and flies will be available to those who do not have their own gear. Please come prepared with light weight sun protective clothing, a hat, polarized sunglasses (not grey lenses), sunscreen, non-marking footwear, and anything to eat and drink.
Targeted species
- Bonefish
- Permit
- Tarpon
What's included
- Rod / Reel
- Tackle / Flies
- Cold Storage
- Dry Storage
- Water
What to bring
- Polarized Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Quick-Dry / Sun-protective Clothing
Location
- Key West, Florida
Exact meeting location will be discussed after booking.
Guided by Emerald Water Angling
Key West, Florida • 6-9 years of experience
Capt. Johan Vannieuwland is a Florida native with a lifelong connection to the water. As a child he was fortunate enough to live on the Mosquito Lagoon and fishing occupied the majority of his free time. As he grew, so did his fascination with fishing. His passion took him south to Biscayne Bay and the Upper Keys, and in recent years, the Lower Keys where he guides fly anglers of all abilities for tarpon, permit, and bonefish year-round from his Chittum skiff.
The Lower Florida Keys and Key West are a notoriously challenging fly fishery, yet attract anglers of all abilities due to easy access and plenty of amenities. Whether coming the the Keys strictly to fly fish, or sneaking in a day or two while on vacation, anglers are encouraged to bring their best game and/or their willingness to learn.
The fly fishing in the Lower Keys is dynamic and conditional. Fish do different things in different conditions, at different times of the year and being able to adapt is important. Capt. Johan Vannieuwland fishes the Lower Keys year-round and trailers his skiff from Key West to Big Pine to maximize his options in all conditions every month of the year.