Mostly considered an offshore species, juvenile gags mature in bays and deeper grass flats close to . This can create some outstanding fishing once they get comfortable. S from Cincinatii, OH Had a great time on the water and caught fish for dinner. Although they are small, pinfishes can be quite tasty. Some species can grow quite large in fact, the largest recorded grouper fish was almost 700 pounds! The time we have all been looking forward to, cooler weather, has arrived here in Crystal River! You've probably seen it on TV or you've seen it on YouTube: shallow water grouper fishing puts Crystal River on the map. You can expect your captain to be friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced when you go on a charter. They can be found in the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and Pacific Ocean, as well as here in Crystal River, Florida. A beautiful scenery paired with a healthy and thriving habitat provides an amazing estuary for fish such as, When it comes to fishing, the gag grouper can be a challenge. These fish are extreme tackle testers so you better be ready for the battle with some high quality gear and some beefed up tackle. #realsal, God! 12645 W Fort Island Trail If you are new to the area, new to inshore grouper fishing, or traveling from afar to come and try your hand at this unique fishing opportunity, a seasoned guide will be key. Redfish, Snook, Speckled Trout, and Gag Grouper are all biting well this time of year, and the weather is usually cooperative, with sunny days and mild temperatures. Learn all about the different snapper varieties here. Its a lot of fun to get a experience fishing for gag grouper, all while finding the secret places where they like to hide. Generally, 65-80 pound braided main line and 80-100 pound leader gets the job done. This is a popular spot with the locals with a great atmosphere. Some of our favorite baits include the Rapala X-Rap Magnum 15, 20, and 30 as well as the FMAG 18. Fishing charters take anglers out along the Crystal River to catch gag grouper. Grouper fishing in Crystal River is typically done by bottom fishing with live bait, and the best time to fish for grouper is during the cooler months. Or looking for where to fish in your own vessel? open menu Crystal River Sport Fishing Sport Fishing Slip 12645 W Fort Island Trail Crystal River, FL 34429 Map/Directions (813) 486-4642 captjaycemassaro@gmail.com Hours Always Open Reviews Book Fishing Charter Follow us on. Crankin' Up Grouper | Bass Pro Shops Welcome to Tarpon Country ladies and gentlemen!!! Shallow water or inshore fishing and grouper do not go hand in hand in most areas. Florida Fishing Adventures. Cool mornings with warm afternoons making for a great fishing environment is what we live for. Offering Inshore, Flats, Offshore, Scalloping, and Grouper fishing charters we have all your fishing needs covered here at High Octane Fishing Charters. Captain Jayce is the go-to gag grouper fishing charter captain in Crystal River, FL. When you use the right approach with circle hooks, they will hook the grouper at the corner of the mouth. The Gulf Coast of Florida experienced a devastating weather event earlier this month when Hurricane Ian made land fall off the coast of Fort Myers Beach as a near category 5 storm. At the same time, they are some of the best-tasting fish in the ocean and most do just fine with a cooler full of these two. Again concentrate on the early morning and late afternoon bites for more success on the water in the dog days of summer. Crystal River, Florida, is a prime fishing destination with various species to catch and beautiful scenery to enjoy. Or looking for where to fish in your own vessel? Catching a grouper isnt the hard part. Youll see copious amounts of wildlife and experience the beauty of this area! Hard fighters paired with being a delectable table fair make it a fish everyone can enjoy. Lost of options around the "millions" of islands and offshore rock piles.. Pete's Pier is a great place to launch from and Hampton Inn and Plantation On Crystal River are very close by. Florida Fishing Adventures. Also, try casting behind the structure where you think the grouper might be holding out of reach. Contact Fish Hunter Tours and Captain Bryan Frechette for a great fishing trip. Inshore Half Day(4 Hours) 1-2 People, 20212023 Crystal River Sport Fishing. Have fun and enjoy!! So no matter when you decide to go, youll always have plenty of fish to catch. We went for Scallops. Shallow Water Grouper Fishing For many people the idea of Gag Grouper and shallow water do not go hand in hand. Make sure to know what your going for and the season that is legal for your choice of catch. These lures track true straight out of the package and have good enough hooks to handle a quality grouper. These fish are hearty and dont give up easily! ? Tight Lines!!! It sits on the Crystal River where you can swim with manatees. Great fishery, things heat up in the warmer monthes.. April is stormy and unpredictable. I want to be just like capt Casey when I grow up., Casey Russell is a highly experienced guide. They are intelligent and fast-moving, so catching them takes some skill. The best equipment for fishing for grouper is a heavy-duty rod and reel. We have a very unique fishery that allows us to catch quality Gag Grouper in less than 20 ft of water. #pathfinderb, Coming to a mailbox near you!! Crystal River Shallow Water Grouper Fishing Capt. Casey is a god, basically the best fisherman ever. A live bait, such as a pinfish, is grouper candy and is hard for them to resist. As extreme, A private scallop charter in Crystal River, Florida is the perfect activity for a group of friends looking to relax, connect and enjoy some quality time in the beauty of, Fishing & Scalloping Charter PricingGroups larger than 4 (for fishing) and larger than 6 (for scalloping) can be accommodated with another captain(s) if requested. These same big-lipped diving plugs have been all the rage for about three years among anglers trolling for grouper off Florida's Coastal Bend in the Gulf of Mexico. Grouper are heavy fish and put up a good fight, so you want equipment that can withstand the stress without breaking. Water is nice and warm in the summer. open menu Crystal River Sport Fishing Sport Fishing Slip 12645 W Fort Island Trail Crystal River, FL 34429 Map/Directions (813) 486-4642 captjaycemassaro@gmail.com Hours Always Open Reviews While most anglers may think that targeting Grouper typically requires a long run offshore to deeper waters, many would be surprised to learn that the Nature Coast of Florida is the epicenter for targeting Gag Grouper in shallow water. Whether you're an inshore or offshore angler, there are incredible opportunities to catch some serious "dinners." The highlight, though, without a doubt, is chasing down shallow water grouper. Summer time mangrove snapper fishing is always a target to keep the rods bent free lining live shrimp in 10-20 feet you can expect mangroves from 2-5lbs along with grunts, hogfish and the occasional grouper. If you are fishing for a large grouper fish, try casting very far out into the water. But it is worth it to find the fish! The gag groupers mouth can also open up wider than most other fish because it has muscles that allow it to expand and contract. Keep it up. And good to eat. If you ever wondered about one of the best grouper fishing opportunities in the state of Florida, wonder no more. Grouper - Southern Fishing Guide Service Including Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River, Yankeetown, Waccasassa, and Cedar Key. Casey. Most of our Grouper Fishing is done anywhere from 8-30 of water. The sun is no joke. You can certainly eat it if you wish! Grouper - Reel Florida Fishing Charters data-event-category="Navigation header guest". As extreme, A private scallop charter in Crystal River, Florida is the perfect activity for a group of friends looking to relax, connect and enjoy some quality time in the beauty of, Fishing & Scalloping Charter PricingGroups larger than 4 (for fishing) and larger than 6 (for scalloping) can be accommodated with another captain(s) if requested. captnickwarrington@gmail.com. If you catch a few and then don't see any for a while, don't get discouraged. Gag grouper fishing is an exhilarating experience in Crystal River, FL. As for the Redfishing here in Crystal River, it couldnt be any better. We initially said hunt because thats exactly what fishing for grouper is like. Once you find the school, live pinfish has been a great bait to keep these fish fired up. Covering the inshore and offshore waters of Floridas Big Bend. read more Big Ol" Black Drum Sep 19, 2022 Why is this cooler weather so special, you may ask? Richard P. from PA. Our group had a blast with Capt. Back in early 60's the US Navy used our coastal waters to test dummy MK 82 bombs and Mk 76 smoke bombs. Are you ready to hook some gag grouper? Fishing the many rock piles that line the foul area with large Rapala f18 Swimming Plugs has also shown to be a great way to get these hard fighting fish to bite in tough conditions. Tons of redfish, trout, mackeral, and cobia invading the area. The best Grouper fishing found along Crystal River and Homosassa can be found along the shallow waters of our Foul Area also known as the Old Bombing Range. June is primarily dedicated to Gag Grouper, as it is one of our most popular species to target. Really good fighting fish. For most people, moderate intake of mercury in fish is not a concern, but you do want to be aware of what youre putting in your body, especially if you eat grouper frequently. In fact, the area has been one of the most popular charter fishing spots in this part of Florida for many decades now thanks to the accessibility and abundant natural resources. Gag grouper fish will often hide in crevices, under ledges, or among rocks and coral. Come along with Captain Jayce on a fishing charter, and get ready to hook the catch of a lifetime. They can also be fished using live or dead bait such as cut fish or chicken parts. Pete's charges $5.00 to park on their lot, but that is covered if you book through FishingBooker. When to Catch Grouper in Crystal River One of the Florida Gulf Coast's greatest fishing experiences is found in Crystal River. Florida Fishing in in October. 2023 FishingBooker.com. Grouper are notorious for breaking anglers off in nearby structures; therefore, we have to use some seriously stout tackle. Cool mornings with warm afternoons making for a great fishing environment is what we live for. The boat was comfortable and had plenty of room to accommodate our group of 5. Caught over grass flats with sabiki rigs or traps, these frisky baits are sure to catch a grouper's eye. Its that time of year again where anglers from all over the world descend onto the flats of Crystal River and Homosassa looking to accomplish one goal/life long quest: CATCH A BIG ASS TARPON ON FLY! Trout bite is firing up. Looks though our reports or subscribe to our reports! Offering up to datefishingtips,scallopingstrategies, productive areas and hot baits. | Sitemap, Website Design & Marketing by Hooked Marketing, Max: 4 Inshore & Grouper / Max: 6 Scalloping. If so, lets talk about what they look like. Back in early 60s the US Navy used our coastal waters to test dummy MK 82 bombs and Mk 76 smoke bombs. Crystal River Grouper Fishing Its hard to believe that May is already in the rearview mirror. The largest grouper fish recorded weighed almost 700 pounds! The redfish and trout where great for dinner. for goliath grouper in Crystal River prices can range anywhere from $400 to $600, but the average price for a full day for goliath grouper in Crystal River is $500. Crystal River is a pristine coastal fishery that is known for epic battles with snook and tarpon, houses many of the most sought-after inshore species anywhere, but it also holds one of the most unique experiences found along Florida's coast - Shallow water grouper fishing! Looking to go fishing in Crystal River in January? In addition to being convenient, going on a fishing charter is also cost-effective. Grouper And Snapper Fishing In Crystal River If you choose to go fishing for grouper in Crystal River on a charter boat, your captain can help you hook the grouper of a lifetime! Sport Fishing Slip It is this combination of structure, food, and temperate waters that bring gag grouper into the Crystal River inshore fishery. The speckled sea trout bite has been great the red fish are moving out to the outer islands wanting to feed plenty of sheep pad and mangrove snapper on the rock piles. February 21, 2023. Looking for an Orvi, Shout out to my boy Casey Males for knocking out s, Another great day of fly fishing with my main man, This gorgeous view will becoming up For Sale very, Great Day fly fishing the Backcountry of Crystal R, One of my top 10 guiding moments!! All you have to do is pay for the charter. The Gulf Coast of Florida experienced a devastating weather event earlier this month when Hurricane Ian made land fall off the coast of Fort Myers Beach as a near category 5 storm. We are the experienced fishing character that can help you catch grouper, along with many other types of fish. He or she will help you set up the gear, give you tips on how to catch fish. Including Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River, Yankeetown, Waccasassa, and Cedar Key. It was a good find and something I could certainly use, a big Mann's Stretch 30 trolling plug. All rights reserved. Grouper sandwiches have been plentiful as of late for our Crystal River clients. Sardines and threadfin herring are a good option if live bait isn't available. If so,, Preparing For Backcountry Winter Fishing In Crystal River, Crystal River offers some of the best fishing in Florida, and winter is a great. Captain, Owner, and Fishing Guide At Florida Fishing Adventures in Crystal River, Florida. There are multiple ways to target these fish all the way from fishing live bait, trolling lures, as well as even casting big plugs and soft plastics swim baits. Be sure to check out our new website and give us any feedback you might have. This will help you identify them when its time to go out on your fishing trip. A fishing charter is a great way to enjoy a day out with friends or family while catching fish at the same time. We went scalloping (not fishing). There can be a few cold fronts that move through, but . October is prime time for inshore and nearshore fishing in the Crystal River area of Florida. Trolling Rapala Xraps or other hard baits across the top of the structure can produce very well by keying in on the Groupers aggression and triggering a reaction strike. You wont be disappointed, 12645 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429. 9340 W Fort Island Trail Fishing Reports - Homosassa Fishing Charters | Crystal River Fishing Sport Fishing Slip If you're looking to charter a Florida flats fishing guide, I hope to hear from you soon. When youre looking for the best-hidden spots for fishing in Crystal River, we also have you covered! Please call for full rate and reservation information. Oops, there was an error sending your message. Grouper are famously known as Florida's most delicious fish species and of the seventeen different grouper species that are targeted throughout Florida the gag grouper is the most common variety found inhabiting the waters off the Nature Coast. Large lipped plugs, jigs, and swimbaits can all be used as long as the hooks are beefy enough to handle the pull of a big grouper. As for the Grouper Fishing here in Crystal River, we have been waiting for the water temperatures to drop and the days to get shorter to push those big gags into shallow water. #discovercrystalriver #pa, Catching a few fish on these rainy Florida days wi, Great day on the pond with my good friend James Ph. Contact us today with questions. However, they can also be found in temperate environments. These young anglers put on a fishing cli. Thankfully the Nature Coast, which includes Crystal River and . You dont have to buy a fishing boat or buy fishing gear. What Fish Are Biting in Crystal River, FL, While fishing the Inshore waters of Crystal River the options are endless. The mackerel bite was on ? As the cooler weather starts to set in, fall is upon us. All of the great guides here at Reel Florida Fishing Charters hope that 2022 was a prosperous year for everyone and we wish all of you the very best going into 2023. Thats why so many people decide to go fishing for grouper in Crystal River! Looking for an Orvi, Shout out to my boy Casey Males for knocking out s, Another great day of fly fishing with my main man, This gorgeous view will becoming up For Sale very, Great Day fly fishing the Backcountry of Crystal R, One of my top 10 guiding moments!! You can feel the shear stopping power of these fish when they hit the lure. Crystal River, FL 34429, 2023 Crystal River Fishing Charters. My boy Andy's l, Great day on the pond targeting Reds on fly. The health benefits of this fish include low-fat content, omega-3 fatty acids, high protein, and a lot of vitamins. These young wranglers kept the rod, bent all day. As for the Grouper Fishing here in Crystal River, we have been waiting for the water temperatures to drop and the days to get shorter to push those big gags into shallow water. It is also great to absorb dressings and marinades. Come prepared for a strong swim. Crystal River, FL 34429. Even with a 50, one of us got really burned. July fishing can very hot but very rewarding. Nice fishing! They are often caught as bycatch in commercial fishing but are also fished for sport or food. Crystal River Grouper Fishing If you ever wondered about one of the best grouper fishing opportunities in the state of Florida, wonder no more. But just off its shores is a series of freshwater springs that attract numerous different species of fish from all over the Gulf Coast every year. The crystal clear waters in this small city make it an awesome place to hunt for these elusive fish. Shallow Water Grouper Fishing - Florida Fishing & Hunting We use 65lb braid and 100lb Fluorocarbon Leader to pull these fish from their homes. The captain can also offer bait if needed. When is the best month to go goliath grouper fishing in Crystal River? 8000 sized spinning reels spooled with 65-80 pound braid and 80 pound leader is what you need to get these fish in the boat. Blindly searching can lead to endless hours of hit or miss fishing before finding the sweet spot. The time we all look forward to has arrived once again: Grouper time! With water temps in the 70's fishing in 10-30' of water has been very good and as it continues to cool off we only expect it to get better. They were a good size and plentiful enough to keep us busy. Fishing for Grouper in Crystal River, FL: June Fishing Report Thankfully the Nature Coast, which includes Crystal River and Homosassa, was spared, as Have you ever been to one of those large family gatherings where one of the grandparents or great parents is talking about a family member only to throw the words Bless His Heart into the story? Bring a rain jacket just if you fish in the summer. Offering Inshore, Flats, Offshore, Scalloping, and Grouper fishing charters we have all your fishing needs covered here at High Octane Fishing Charters. October Fishing Report: Gag Grouper Fishing in Crystal River, FL I would have never ever caught any of these massive reds with out his expertise. Consider using circle hooks when youre fishing for grouper in Crystal River. I'm talkin, Don't let the grey beard fool you!!! Consider the following advice on how to catch and hook the catch of a lifetime, right here in Crystal River, FL. 8/0 to 10/0 circle hooks typically work great. The best Grouper fishing found along Crystal River and Homosassa can be found along the shallow waters of our "Foul Area" also known as the Old Bombing Range. Its keeping it. Including Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River, Yankeetown, Waccasassa, and Cedar Key. When it comes to gag grouper fishing in Crystal River, you need to have the right tackle ready to go. Fish to 20 pounds are not unusual, and trust me, theres nothing like battling one of these bruisers on spinning tackle in shallow water. 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Its 2023 , and the new year is starting right with inshore and offshore action.Our water temps have been colder than average. Yes, but be careful of the oyster bars if running your own boat. I love fishing the Nature Coast. A beautiful scenery paired with a healthy and thriving habitat provides an amazing estuary for fish such as, When it comes to fishing, the gag grouper can be a challenge. In less than 20 feet of water, gag grouper can be found patrolling the inshore waters of Crystal River. When to Catch Grouper in Crystal River I honestly cant say that I blame those fun loving beachgoers for wanting to soak up some sun during the spring break season here in Florida. Looks though our reports or subscribe to our reports! Crystal River, Florida, makes an excellent choice for charter fishing. Bring a hat and sunblock and a good attitude, there's gold here!!!