Conditions, trip arrangements, and pricing discussed below are from August 2024.
July gave us plenty of calm days and beautiful clear water. It also gave us a reminder that a pretty ocean can still make for a very hot afternoon.
Preparation matters during August and September. Read the trip information, share it with everyone coming along, and tell me about your group’s experience before we leave the dock. My first goal is a safe, enjoyable day. Knowing who is aboard helps me build the fishing or diving plan around that.
July 14, 2024 residents-only lobster opener.
Lobster Opener Results and Challenging Visibility
I ran one trip for the July 14 residents-only opener, and we did very well, reaching our limit. Conditions were not ideal, but there was little boat traffic where we worked.
Mini-season brought more people out, though it seemed quieter than some previous years. Visibility limited access to many areas. That may have left some lobster less pressured, but it also made finding and catching them more challenging.
On my first trip, visibility averaged around eight feet. We found roughly one or two keeper lobster for every four holes we checked. Those are observations from that outing, rather than numbers to expect on every trip.
Match the Lobster Trip to Your Group
Warm water, limited visibility, and current have all been part of the picture. We need to discuss those conditions alongside your group’s swimming and diving experience before deciding whether the trip is a good fit.
Use your booking notes and check-in call to tell me who is coming, what they have done before, and anything they are unsure about. A group needing shallow, sheltered locations will have a different trip from experienced divers who are comfortable with a wider range of suitable spots.
I can make adjustments, but shallower, easier-to-access areas often receive more fishing and diving pressure. That can affect the lobster opportunities available. There is a balance between the locations we can use, the conditions, and the people in the water.
We will work at a pace appropriate for your group. Visiting more spots can create more opportunities, but catching lobster is never a reason to rush a dive or push past your abilities. Tell me when you need a break or when something does not feel manageable.
Before Your Lobster Trip
Please arrive early enough to find me, check your equipment, apply sun protection, and settle the remaining trip balance before we leave the dock. I will explain the plan and procedures before we head out.
If you decide a fishing trip would suit your group better, discuss that during your check-in call or before the day of your reservation. I need time to prepare different equipment and supplies, so an activity change cannot be left until arrival.
If you become uncomfortable during the trip and want to return to the dock, tell me. There is no need to stay out simply because that was the original plan.
Weather is always part of the trip-planning conversation.
Reef and Wreck Fishing Have Been Slow
Here is the honest reef report: fishing has generally been slow. The mangrove snapper spawning bite has tapered off, and many yellowtail have been around 11–13 inches. There are fish around, but we are not seeing the size and quality we often get in cooler months.
The wrecks have also required patience. Recent catches have included bonitas, amberjack, and a few mutton snapper, with some better fish available for those willing to put in the time.
A great offshore catch.
Offshore Mahi Have Been the Better Fishing Option
Offshore mahi fishing has been pretty good, mostly with school-sized fish. It has not been consistent on every outing. One recent trip produced only a few mahi, bonitas, and jacks, well below what we had been seeing.
For this August 2024 period, I am recommending that guests with reef reservations discuss whether an offshore trip would be a better match. At the time of this report, I estimated an additional fuel charge of roughly $75–$100, depending on fuel prices and how much we used. That is historical pricing; any change to a trip needs its own discussion and confirmation.
Electric deep-dropping was no longer part of my available trip plan for this report period. Species-specific seasons and regulations need to be checked for the dates and area being fished.
The last snowy grouper of my electric deep-drop season.
Excellent Snorkeling, with Weather Changes Ahead
Reef snorkeling has been excellent during the recent dry stretch. We have had several days of clear blue water with visibility reaching around 80 feet.
A tropical system approaching at the time of this update could change that picture. We will need to reassess the water after it passes rather than assume the clear conditions will continue.
During stable weather at this time of year, I often see visibility closer to 30 feet, though it varies by location and conditions. We will discuss the outlook for your trip as the date approaches.
Cooling off and exploring at a deeper sandbar.
Thanks for reading. Put a little time into the trip information, include your group’s details in the booking notes, and ask about anything unfamiliar. A shared plan makes the day easier to organize and enjoy.
If you are deciding between lobster diving, fishing, or snorkeling, let’s talk about which option fits your crew and your dates. I can explain the conditions, preparation, and any changes worth considering before we meet at the dock.
