Key West Catch of the Week - 40-Pound Pompano

This past week of fishing within the gleaming waters of Key West was better than ever. All throughout the area, our charters were reporting back with pictures and details of some amazing catches. Out of all of these fantastic catches, there was one that stood out among the rest and won our Key West Catch of the Week award. Steve from North Carolina brought in an amazing haul of a massive 40 lb. Pompano while Key West light tackle fishing on our Coolcast Charter.

The Pompano species of fish is found primarily around Florida and in the waters of Key West. It can be identified due to its short and rounded snout. Anglers of all sorts would view a Pompano catch as a successful trip out onto the water, as the meat from the fish is succulent and delicious, a favorite within the city known as Pompano Beach in Florida, called as such due to the local popularity of this species. The colors of this fish can make it tricky to spot, as it is comprised of silver, yellow and greenish hues, allowing it to blend well with the surrounding waters.

This fish bears a striking resemblance to that of the Permit, another popular Key West light tackle fishing species. Pompano tend to reach lengths of 18-25 inches, growing quickly after birth. They are often found in surf flats and live in relatively warm waters of 80-90 degrees. Steve must have had his hands full as Pompano can typically swim very fast and are surprisingly stubborn once they are hooked. As the teeth of a Pompano are quite small, they feed mostly on clams and other small sea-life found in the ocean.

August is a wonderful time of the year for fishing, as this week has so readily demonstrated. With all of these spectacular catches, such as the most recent Catch of the Week, it's clear that the warm waters of Key West have been absolutely teaming with many species of fish that are more than eager to bite on the lines of any angler that is up to the challenge. Much of this has to do with the temperatures hovering around the upper 90's as of late, complete with ample amounts of sunshine, allowing for prime conditions when Key West light tackle fishing.

What you may not know is that these good weather conditions are extra important for fishing, as specific conditions can greatly affect fish behavior. For instance, sunny and warm weather makes way for some excellent deep sea fishing, as fish closer to the surface often hide under nearby objects to escape the sun. In comparison, light rain will cause many species of fish to go on a feeding frenzy, allowing them to more readily take the bait. If you've been waiting for the perfect opportunity to go fishing in Key West, now is the best time to cast your lure and have your picture be the next Catch of the Week alongside Steve's fantastic Pompano catch.