Fishing conditions and seasonal outlook from June 2023.
June is starting with a reminder that we live in the tropics. Tropical Depression Two is part of the weather picture as I write this, and summer showers are becoming part of our trip planning.
We still have plenty of beautiful days to look forward to. June can be an excellent month for fishing and snorkeling, provided we prepare for the weather and leave room to adjust.
Morning Reef Trips Give Us More Options
My most popular outing is the four-hour reef fishing trip. During this summer period, mornings are my preference. We get ahead of the strongest heat and make better use of the feeding pattern I have been seeing.
For many families and first-time anglers, it is a good starting point: a relatively short run, techniques we can work through together, and opportunities to catch something for dinner.
When the main reef bite slows, we still have choices. Depending on conditions and your group’s interests, we might try another fishery or finish with snorkeling. Fishing early and getting in the water later can give you a varied morning without needing a full day offshore.
Offshore Tuna and Mahi: Searching and Adapting
Mahi, also called dolphin, and tuna are important offshore targets this time of year. Reports from other boats over the past several weeks have been inconsistent, including trips searching more than 30 miles out.
I am watching whether the changing weather moves bait, fish, and floating debris into more productive patterns. That may create opportunities, but we will need suitable conditions before making the run.
Heavy floating weed has also changed how we fish. Rather than leave lines trolling through thick patches, we have needed shorter sets and more frequent checks to keep the tackle clear. Same fishing, a little more housekeeping.
Offshore trips are hands-on and need to suit the group. Familiarity with rods, reels, setting lines, and the general flow of fishing helps everyone take an active role. Tell me about your crew’s experience before booking so I can explain what will be involved.
Electric Deep-Dropping Adds Another Possibility
Electric deep-dropping has helped fill some gaps when offshore trolling is slow. With suitable conditions and open species to target, we can fish the bottom in roughly 600–1,000 feet of water.
Electric reels and heavy weights let us work those depths for fish that can make excellent dinners. Relatively calm seas and manageable current are important to making the approach work.
It can be quiet while we wait, then become very rewarding when something takes the bait. It is another option to discuss when planning a day offshore, subject to the applicable seasons and regulations.
Warm Water and Good Snorkeling
Snorkeling has been excellent over the past month. Water temperatures are in the low 80s Fahrenheit, and we had days with around 70 feet of visibility before the current tropical weather arrived.
Summer rain can change the water’s color and clarity. Blue water may give way to greener water, but color alone does not tell the whole story. Some green-water days still offer worthwhile visibility.
Conditions change with the weather and tides. I will use the latest information and what we find on the water to choose suitable places for your group.
Thinking Ahead to Lobster Trips
Lobster trips are an active diving experience. Your group needs the swimming, snorkeling, and diving skills described in my participation requirements, along with conditions suitable for using those skills.
These outings can be fun and productive, with plenty to see while we search. They also take effort, and a catch is never guaranteed. Read the requirements before reserving and discuss everyone’s experience with me.
For this season, I suggest considering dates beyond mid-August. The opening periods receive heavy pressure, and later trips may offer different opportunities as conditions and lobster locations change.
I am reviewing how these trips fit into the business and want to concentrate on groups for whom the activity is appropriate. Lobster-trip payment is collected in full before departure.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
My Trip Tips page explains how to prepare for your day. Read it before arriving and share the information with everyone coming along.
Tell me about your group’s interests, experience, and concerns. That gives me a better starting point than figuring everything out after we leave the dock. I want your time aboard to feel organized, enjoyable, and worth repeating.
Share a Few Memories Afterward
If you take photos during your trip, I would love a few favorites. I am often busy helping with fish and setting up your pictures, so the best moments may be on your camera rather than mine.
A smiling face holding a fish or enjoying the day tells more of the story than another cooler picture. Send a few shots when you have a moment, or consider leaving an honest review. Both help future guests understand what these trips are like, and I appreciate your time.
Want to fish early, explore the reef, or talk through a future lobster outing? Drop me a message with your dates and your group’s interests. We can sort out a suitable plan and the preparation that will help you enjoy it.
