May Fly Fishing in Biscayne Bay: Prime Time for South Florida’s Inshore Slam

May is one of the most exciting months of the year to fly fish in Biscayne Bay. As spring transitions into summer, water temperatures warm, baitfish become more active, and some of South Florida’s most sought-after gamefish begin feeding aggressively throughout the bay. For anglers chasing permit, bonefish, tarpon, snook, and redfish on fly, May offers an incredible mix of sight fishing opportunities in one of the most beautiful fisheries in the world.


One of the biggest highlights of May is the permit fishing. These powerful and challenging fish move across the shallow flats in greater numbers, giving anglers the opportunity to sight cast to cruising and tailing fish in clear water. Permit are known for testing even experienced fly anglers, but the reward of watching one track down a crab fly before taking off across the flat is unforgettable. Calm mornings and favorable tides can create some truly special days on the water during this time of year.


Bonefish action also continues to improve throughout May. Biscayne Bay is home to some of the largest bonefish found anywhere, and the warmer conditions make these fish increasingly active across the flats. Few experiences in fly fishing compare to spotting a bonefish in skinny water, making the perfect cast, and watching the fish charge the fly before blistering into the backing. The clear water and long daylight hours this time of year create excellent conditions for targeting these silver ghosts.


May is also considered prime tarpon season in South Florida. Large migratory tarpon begin moving through Biscayne Bay in impressive numbers, offering anglers opportunities at fish ranging from smaller juveniles to true giants. Early mornings often bring rolling fish and calm conditions that make for exciting sight fishing opportunities. Hooking a tarpon on fly is one of the most thrilling experiences in saltwater fly fishing, with explosive jumps, long runs, and unforgettable fights that leave anglers wanting more.


Snook fishing becomes increasingly productive in May as these aggressive predators feed heavily along mangrove shorelines, docks, and creek mouths. Snook are known for crushing flies with violent strikes and using structure to their advantage during the fight. They provide exciting action on fly gear and are a great addition to a day spent exploring Biscayne Bay’s backcountry waters.


Redfish also provide excellent shallow-water opportunities during May. While they are often overlooked in South Florida, Biscayne Bay holds quality redfish in select areas where anglers can sight fish to tailing fish in skinny water. Their willingness to eat a properly presented fly and their hard-fighting nature make them a favorite target for many anglers.


One of the best parts about fishing Biscayne Bay in May is the variety available throughout a single day. Anglers may spend the morning targeting permit on the flats, transition to bonefish during a favorable tide, and finish the afternoon searching for tarpon, snook, or redfish along the mangroves. Every trip offers something different, and the combination of clear water, warm weather, and diverse fishing opportunities makes May one of the best times of year to be on the water.


If you are looking to experience world-class fly fishing in South Florida, May is the perfect time to explore Biscayne Bay with Capt. John Long. Whether you are an experienced angler chasing a technical sight fishing challenge or someone looking to experience saltwater fly fishing for the first time, Biscayne Bay offers unforgettable opportunities throughout the month.