Archived August 1, 2016 report: Fishing observations, departure times, lobster season references, and charter activities below reflect that period. Confirm current offerings and regulations before booking.
Here we are in August already! Looking back at last year’s report, I see familiar summer patterns along with a few differences. One thing has not changed: it is hot, and adjusting our plans around the heat makes the day more comfortable.
Give Your Adventure Enough Time
Everybody wants a memorable trip, and I want that for you too. The best starting point is a realistic plan that fits your group, the conditions, and the time available.
If you want to combine several activities, allow enough time to enjoy them. If you prefer a shorter outing, we may need to narrow the goals. Recent trips on my Facebook page can help you see the kinds of experiences we have been putting together, without suggesting every day will produce the same result.
A 7 A.M. Start Helps Beat the Heat
I have been starting fishing trips at 7 a.m. to take advantage of the early bite and cooler part of the day. That extra morning hour makes a difference for both fishing and comfort.
During this stretch, I have also been limiting the schedule to one booking per day. I strongly recommend morning fishing rather than an afternoon outing. Afternoon conditions can occasionally work, but the heat and slower feeding generally make it a less dependable choice.
Mangrove snapper on the reef, offshore tuna trolling and jigging, and shallow-water shark trips have all provided good action. Wreck fishing has also been worthwhile when the conditions line up. There is that word again: conditions. It shows up often because it matters.
Lobster Season Expectations
Mini season gave us workable conditions, but catches were below expectations for many people hoping to reach their limits.
For the August 6, 2016 regular-season opener, I expected a slower-than-average start. Weather changes and lobster movement could alter the opportunities, but I could not predict how quickly that would happen.
Your preparation and diving skills also affect what we can do. Before booking, review the participation requirements and make sure the activity suits everyone who wants to catch lobster. Reaching the bottom, locating the animal, and managing the equipment underwater require more than comfortable surface swimming.
I provide instruction and take you to suitable spots, but I cannot promise a particular catch. Be honest about your experience, stay within your abilities, and tell me what kind of outing your group hopes to enjoy.
Reef Visibility and Moon Jellyfish
Snorkeling and the spearfishing trips offered during this period have depended heavily on tides and where we find clearer water. Reef visibility has averaged around 20 feet, often with green water. That can still provide a worthwhile outing, although I would always prefer to find cleaner, clearer conditions for you.
August also brings moon jellyfish moving across the reef. Give them room and pay attention to what is drifting toward you. A long-sleeve rash guard helps reduce exposed skin, but it does not replace avoiding contact. Their presence and numbers can change throughout the day.
Spearfishing Has Been Day to Day
Spearfishing has been fair, with opportunities varying by location and conditions. Mangrove snapper, hogfish, yellow jacks, and mackerel have been among the encounters, along with some grouper and other species.
Fish have been moving around, so a spot can look different from one tide to the next. For the trips I offered at the time, preparation, species identification, equipment familiarity, and careful technique were important parts of the experience.
Thank you to everybody who joined me for some great July outings. If you are planning a summer adventure, tell me your group’s interests and experience. I’ll help you choose a realistic plan and make the most of the time we have on the water.
