Spring Is Here!!!

Hi everyone!! Spring is starting off very well so far. The weather has been terrific and the fishing has been as well. We are catching a ton of Grunts, Sea Bass and Porgies. We have still been having a few Hogfish on the all day trips as well as some King Mackerel starting to show up. The Grouper fishing has been pretty good but, unfortunately, we are still in the federal closure and we cannot keep any Grouper at this point. They give a nice fight and make a great picture, but you will have to wait a couple more weeks before you can keep one to eat. Red Grouper will open on April 1 with Gags set for July 1. The Gag Grouper season is currently set to run until October 31 this year but, as always, there are some questions to that. The state of Florida is considering opening a "special season" of 4 months for 4 North Gulf counties that could put the remainder of the Gulfs season in jeopardy. There is a distinct possibility that the remainder of Gulf fisherman could be punished up to 30-40 days if these select counties catch to many Gag Grouper. You can find more info on this topic at myfwc.com and search for Gag Grouper season. I encourage each person that is not happy with this possible decision to send emails with your concerns.

Red Snapper season is set to open on June 1. We are not sure of the length of the season yet. I will be attending the Gulf Council meeting in Corpus Christi, TX next month and they should be giving season lengths at that time. Upon my return, I will set dates for any 14 and/or 24 hour snapper trips for this year. Keep an eye on this blog at the end of April for trip dates and times.

I have been a board member of the Charter Fisherman's Association for the last year. This is a group of Captains from across the Gulf that are working toward a common goal of a sustainable fishery in the Gulf that gives the most access to the average American angler. We are fighting for your ability to keep fishing while continuing to find ways to rebuild our fish stocks for future generations. If you are interested in finding out more about our organization or possibly joining and supporting it, check us out at charterfisherman.org .

Remember: If you are coming fishing during the months of March and April,especially for our afternoon trips, leave yourself plenty of travel time. Traffic can be harsh coming to the beach and parking is at a premium in the afternoon. You will have an easier time finding parking the earlier you arrive. See you all soon!!!

Capt. Chad