What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Islamorada, Florida for the first time?

I would suggest to plan for multiple days in order that you can cancel due to weather. Local fisherman of leisure will not go out if there are any whitecaps. Whitecaps generally equate to 5' seas in my experience, and fishing can be miserable. There should be some standard in which the fisherman has ability to cancel without being damaged. Captains need to make money, so leaving decision in his hands is not objective decision.

The fishing in Islamorada in June is great in the backcountry and average for Tarpon. The Tarpon bite is mostly for local resident tarpon with the migrating tarpon already being done. Overall an amazing fishery. The shrimp availability was low which definitely impacts the guides.

Islamorada is expensive. Tarpon fishing is hours of boredom followed by unbelievable excitement if you are lucky enough to hook one up. Listen closely to your captain. This type of fishing is different than any I've done before, and I've been fishing for 60 years. I most certainly want to try again.

Fishing in Islamorada was terrific. Plenty of areas to target. There is a great patch reef area for fishing with the smaller children. Grouper, snapper. Action was cool and within sight of the beach. Capt Paul was terrific.

Don’t forget your sunscreen before you go & always remember to be prepared for anything....it’s called “Fishing”

Do your homework. Don't settle for the cheaper price. Those boats are cheap for a reason. Found that out the hard way back in February this year.

Take a guide, you can't get to the places without knowledge of these waters. Be smart

Wear long sleeves in a breathable shirt and polarized sunglasses for those that haven't been out on the water. The sun will get you and it reflects of the water pretty heavily.

This was my first time fishing so I don’t know - but I had a great time and we caught lots of fish

Call Captain Tony with Singing Reels. That way you won't wonder if you are taking a chance or not. He is the best!

For novice fishers be prepared for the sun (hat, buff, long sleeved shirt, pants and sunscreen). Research your fish for the right bait/lures and setup. Drink plenty of water.

Call Captain Mark at Dauntless Charters and dress appropriately. The Florida sun can be brutal. Sunscreen, UV clothing, and head covering is a must.

Be open minded when fishing and listen to the locals. They know what’s in season and can be very helpful.

Don’t wear flip flops, wear shoes with grip as the waves can toss you around a bit and stability is a must when reeling in the big ones!

Great place to visit with family or friends. Recommend Marker 88 and Lazy Days restaurants. Theater of the Sea is not to be missed.

Enjoy life and friends. Great place to Vac. Came for a week this time. Will have to stay three or four weeks next year.

Find a good charter to start your trip and they will teach you all you need to know about the area to get ready for fishing on your own for the rest of the trip

Be prepared for anything. Weather is a factor when going offshore. There are always options when the weather is inclimate.

Weather was a problem cold and windy captain did a great job considering the conditions we did catch fish

Book with Dee Dee. Capt. Chuck Shimmelman is very accommodating and found fish when they were hard to find. Justin is the best 1st mate I've fished with.

Relax and have fun. Captains know the waters and put you on the fish. Wonderful for experienced to novice.Highly recommended.

Not sure. I thought I did my homework on species and boats recommended but still pay off.

Keep the group on the boat smallish, around 4, and everyone will get a great day of fishing.

Captian Keith was awesome... I asked for Tarpon and I hooked up on a 140+ lb... fish-on.

Fabulous fishing in shore - March is hit or miss for Tarpon as there can be cold fronts.

Probably the boat that I booked! I’m sure someone else would have done better