Archived June 2019 update: Fishing observations, charter activities, booking availability, and boat plans below reflect that period. Confirm current offerings and regulations before booking.
I’m a little behind on the June report, but for a good reason: a long stretch of excellent weather has kept me on the water every day. From the bay to the reef to offshore, we have been fishing, snorkeling, spearfishing, exploring the shallows, and playing in mermaid tails. It has been pretty darn good!
Prepare for Summer Heat and Showers
June brings our rainy-season pattern and increasing heat. If you ask what the weather will be like a week or two from now, the honest answer is that it will probably be hot, with a chance of rain somewhere. The details for your particular trip become clearer as the date approaches.
Bring a medium-sized cooler with your favorite drinks, plenty of sun protection, and what you need to stay comfortable. I have rain gear available during this reporting period if you do not have your own. Watch the forecast leading up to your outing and review my Trip Tips with everybody coming aboard.
If motion sickness is a concern, plan ahead and follow the directions for any prevention option you use. Discuss questions about suitable remedies with a pharmacist or healthcare provider before charter day. Even calm conditions can feel different to somebody who is unfamiliar with ocean boating.
Please also use the reservation notes to tell me how many people are coming, what you would like to do, and any needs that could affect participation. Even if we have spoken by phone, a short summary attached to your booking helps me prepare accurately.
Morning Reef Fishing Gives Us the Advantage
Fishing has been great overall. We have been choosing departures around 7 a.m. instead of the usual 8 a.m., depending on the weather and activity. That gives us more time during the early bite before the sun and heat slow things down.
For a four-hour reef fishing trip, book a morning departure. If an afternoon is your only option, call me before reserving so we can discuss what might work. Summer afternoons can suit some activities, but they generally work against our reef fishing goals.
Yellowtail snapper fishing has been good when the current is moving. The average size has dropped recently, although bigger fish still appear on some days. Recent trips have averaged 15–30 yellowtail. Grouper have become much less plentiful, and the larger schools of mangrove snapper have not arrived yet. I expect more mangroves over the coming weeks as we approach their July spawning period.
Offshore Dolphin, Tuna, and Deep Dropping
Offshore fishing for dolphin, also called mahi-mahi, and tuna has been fairly consistent. We have not seen many big fish, but the numbers have provided good action and plenty of fillets on recent trips.
These outings involve active teamwork. You are my crew, helping handle tackle, fight fish, and set lines. I teach throughout the trip, but familiarity with fishing equipment and the basic process gives us a stronger starting point. If your group is new to ocean fishing, tell me so we can discuss whether offshore is the right choice.
On calmer days, electric deep dropping has added another option. Recent catches have included tilefish and some jumbo snowy grouper averaging around 20 pounds. It is sensitive to sea conditions and current, but it has been a productive addition to our offshore trips when those pieces line up.
Snorkeling and In-Water Conditions
Snorkeling and the spearfishing trips I offered during this period have been great. We have enjoyed many clear blue-water days, and even the greener water has often had good visibility.
Rainy season can change that. Runoff and algae blooms may reduce clarity, so we will work with the conditions leading up to your trip. Spearfishing also requires careful preparation, suitable skills, and an understanding of the rules for the activity. It is a hands-on experience with a learning curve, rather than something to book without first reviewing what is involved.
Looking Ahead to Lobster Season
I have seen plenty of lobsters moving into our waters over the past two weeks, which is encouraging. My mini season dates were already booked when I wrote this update, and I did not have information about other operators’ availability.
I cannot predict what the first week of regular season will produce. In my experience, good diving weather during mini season and the days around the regular opener can mean heavy pressure on accessible spots. Weather that keeps boats off the water can change that pattern, while lobster movement affects which areas hold opportunities.
September has often been a worthwhile option as pressure eases and conditions change. That is a seasonal observation, not a catch guarantee. Your group’s abilities, the weather, and the lobsters available all shape the trip.
Boat News and a Thank-You
May was a busy month: 25 trips, four days lost to weather, and two days set aside for boat service. I have also added a second boat and am working out how it will fit into the business. At the time of this report, its trip options, pricing, and availability were still being developed.
Thank you to the guests who have shared their experiences through reviews and recommendations. An honest account of what you did, learned, and enjoyed helps future visitors understand my approach. I appreciate you taking the time.
My trips are built around participation, learning, and working together. Every group has different needs, and I can plan much better when we discuss them before arriving at the dock. Please mention relevant mobility limitations, recent injuries, or other concerns in advance, and make sure everybody understands the activity they are choosing.
I want our time together to be enjoyable and worthwhile. If you are sorting through summer fishing, snorkeling, or a combination trip, send me a little information about your group. I’ll help you choose an outing that fits your interests and experience.
