Archived November 2016 report: Fishing observations, water temperatures, charter offerings, and prices below reflect that period. Confirm current regulations and trip options before booking.
November has to be one of my favorite months to live, work, and play in the Keys. Water temperatures are dropping, bait is moving, predators are following, and the wind is changing direction more frequently. It feels like somebody keeps shuffling the deck.
That makes it difficult to predict exactly what will be biting a week from now. The best approach is to watch the patterns and make the most of the opportunities each day gives us.
Clear Water and Fall Spearfishing
Moon jellyfish have been absent from the areas I have visited recently, and clear blue water has made the reef especially inviting between windy stretches. I have managed a few personal days on the water when I was not booked, with some worthwhile opportunities.
Water temperatures have averaged 75–78°F. Grouper have returned to parts of the main reef and inshore reefs, although they remain wary fish that demand suitable skills and equipment. This report noted the approaching December 31 seasonal closure for the grouper fishery being discussed.
At the time of writing, anticipated hogfish regulation changes were also part of my planning. Hogfish had been an important target on some beginner trips, so changes would mean adjusting our approach and considering other suitable species.
For any harvesting activity, learn the current species identification, size limits, seasons, and location-specific restrictions before your trip. A past fishing report is not a substitute for the rules in effect when you go.
Other reef encounters have included small schools of large mangrove snapper, cero mackerel, and yellow jacks. For the spearfishing trips I offered during this period, timing and suitable underwater conditions remained important parts of the plan.
Snorkeling as the Water Cools
Snorkeling has been excellent after a few settled days without much wind. As temperatures continue falling, a suitable wetsuit can help keep the experience comfortable. At the time of this report, wetsuits could be rented from Captain Hooks Marina, our departure location.
My lobster charters were finished for the year. That was the end of my operating window for those trips, rather than a statement about the legal lobster season.
Mermaid tails were still an optional addition, priced at $50 during this period. Your idea of chilly and mine may differ, but water temperature, comfort, and conditions all needed to be considered before making that part of the outing.
Rod-and-Reel Fishing Offers Plenty of Variety
Fishing has been good across several areas. I have focused recent outings on the inshore patch reefs for hogfish and porgies, with a wide mix of released fish and keepers adding action along the way.
On the main reef, wrecks, and offshore grounds, snapper, jacks, and tuna have been providing opportunities. Sharks have also been very active, taking many hooked fish before we can bring them aboard.
That can be frustrating, especially after hooking a good fish. We work to land catches efficiently, but the sharks are another variable we cannot control. Some days they take a bigger share than others.
Planning Your Day on the Water
I am looking forward to welcoming new and returning guests as the season gets busier. Spend some time reviewing the trip descriptions, requirements, and preparation information on my website so you can choose an outing that fits your whole group.
My Facebook business page shares examples of recent adventures, and the reservations section of my website provides booking information and availability.
If you have joined me, thank you for sharing an honest review on TripAdvisor, Google, or Yelp. Your experiences help future guests understand what my trips involve, and personal recommendations mean a lot to a small business.
Whether you want to fish the patch reefs or try snorkeling during a calm spell, tell me about your group and what you enjoy. I’ll help you put the seasonal options into a practical plan.
