May was a great month for fishing in Islamorada, and the variety has been about as good as you could ask for. From big mahi offshore, to permit schools, quality grouper, and even sailfish still in the mix, it has been one exciting month aboard Miss Penny.
The mahi showed up in full force in May, and we had quite a few larger fish mixed in. One of the biggest highlights so far was a 30-pound bull mahi. That fish ate the first bait, but spit the hook, and for a moment we thought the opportunity was gone. Luckily, 1st Mate Kit stayed ready, saw the fish again, and pitched a second bait. The mahi ate it, we came tight, and it was fish on. After an exhilarating fight, we had our prize on deck, and it was a beauty.
The mahi were not the only stars of the month. Captain Chad went 7 for 10 on big permit, which made for one of the most memorable bites we have had lately. Permit are one of our favorite fish to target, especially when they are schooled up the way they were that day. They are powerful, smart, and never easy, which makes success with them that much sweeter.
The grouper fishing has also been steady, with multiple black grouper over 15 pounds coming to the boat. Those are quality fish anywhere, and they have been a great reminder of how consistent the bottom fishing can be this time of year.
And even this late into the season, the sailfish are still around and still biting. Whenever the edge pushes in close, we have had some excellent opportunities, and that has kept things exciting offshore.
All in all, May 2026 has been one to remember. Big mahi, hard-fighting permit, solid grouper fishing, and sailfish still giving us chances offshore, that is exactly why we love fishing in Islamorada this time of year.
Trip Photos
