Peter,
Just FYI, HS0ZEE had a good signal on 80m FT8 long path, both at local sunrise and sunset in Florida a couple weeks ago, for a few days. He has high noise, but a handful of NA have worked him. I've not listened recently, but he may be your best current bet for zone 26 on 80. For zone 24, BG2AUE may be your best bet assuming he's QRV. I worked him on 80 CW last February during ARRL DX. He's got a good signal and seems to hear pretty well also.
Best time for both is honestly at your local sunrise, assuming mutual darkness on both ends of the path.
Best of luck!