Archived May 2019 report: Fishing observations, water conditions, and charter activities below reflect that period. Confirm current offerings before booking.
I missed the April update, but for a good reason: you kept me on the water! After 30 trips in March and 34 in April—yes, just me—May is moving at a similar pace. Thank you to everybody who has come aboard.
Recent trips have ranged from good to excellent. As always, the conditions and my crew help determine where we go and what we do. Nice weather and experienced anglers give us more options, while families, beginners, and guests concerned about motion sickness may enjoy a different plan. The goal is to match the adventure to the people aboard.
Good Fishing Close to the Dock
One advantage of spring fishing is that we do not always need a long ride to find action. Some of my favorite spots are within three miles of the dock, and the main reef is less than six miles from where we start.
That gets us fishing quickly and gives us alternatives when the wind picks up. We can often adjust to a closer, more protected area to keep the trip comfortable.
Early Reef Trips for Big Yellowtail Snapper
May reef fishing is typically strong, and early starts make a difference. Afternoon half-day trips put us in the heat, when fish are often less willing to feed. They can be done, but a morning departure gives us a better starting point.
We have recently had great catches of large yellowtail snapper gathering ahead of their summer spawning period. Mangrove snapper, mackerel, bonita, jacks, and grouper have added variety to the reef trips.
Inside the reef, a dozen or more species have been keeping things interesting. We catch smaller fish, practice the techniques, and work toward opportunities for something bigger.
Some areas have also offered encounters with large bull sharks, blacktip sharks in the 50–100-pound range, barracuda, and permit. With fish moving through daily, each trip brings a different mix of possibilities.
Offshore Tuna and Early-Season Dolphin
Far offshore, blackfin tuna have been providing good action. The common “football-sized” fish fight hard and are excellent eating. Getting them into the boat before the sharks arrive has been the biggest challenge.
May also brings the beginning of our dolphin, or mahi-mahi, opportunities. Early in the season, we often see quality before quantity. Floating debris or a working bird can lead us to a pair of nice fish, so keeping our eyes open is part of the job.
Clear Water for Snorkeling
In-water trips have been good to great, with some very clear water during breaks in the wind. Snorkeling and the spearfishing trips I offered during this period have benefited from those calmer stretches.
If you are booking within the next week or so, check a forecast such as Windfinder to help identify a promising weather window. For trips reserved further ahead, we will assess the conditions as the date approaches.
Several windy days can stir up the bottom like shaking a snow globe. Once the wind settles, the suspended sand and silt may still need time to clear. A calm forecast is encouraging, but what happened during the preceding days matters too.
Help Me Build the Right Trip for You
Running this business is a lifestyle, and I put a lot into each outing before you arrive. Preparing the boat, maintaining equipment, managing reservations, and planning around the weather all support the experience we share on the water.
Your preparation helps bring that plan together. Arrive on time, bring what you need for comfort, and tell me about your group’s experience and any needs that could affect participation. That gives me a chance to plan appropriately instead of discovering an important limitation after we leave the dock.
You do not need to arrive knowing everything. Teaching is part of what I do. We start with the basics and build as your confidence grows. Asking questions and being ready to learn helps us make the most of the opportunities we find.
Plan Ahead for Motion Sickness
Motion sickness has affected quite a few guests over the past few months, including on days with mild conditions. Even aboard a comfortable 31-foot boat, individual sensitivity varies.
If you are unsure how you will feel, discuss prevention options with a pharmacist or healthcare provider before your outing. Follow the directions for anything you use, and let me know about concerns while we are choosing the trip. No remedy is a guarantee, but planning ahead gives us more options than waiting until somebody feels unwell offshore.
I want everybody comfortable enough to enjoy the day. If you would like help choosing between a close-to-shore fishing trip, an offshore outing, or time snorkeling, send me your questions and a little background about your group. We can work out a sensible plan together.
