The Florida Keys Wrecks
Scattered all over the Florida Keys you’ll find hundreds of wrecks… some in shallow water and some in deep water with the largest concentration off of Key West out to the Dry Tortugas. Some of these wrecks were sunk on purpose while others found their fate in storms. The deeper wrecks are fished from 100′-250′ and tend to hold the larger, loner fish. The shallower wrecks hold large amounts of schooling fish. All of them are worth visiting for the fishing and adventure offering a mixed bag of fish such as Amber Jacks, Groupers, Cobia, Snappers, Permit, Barracudas, Sharks, Kingfish, Goliath Groupers, Groupers and more.
The Florida Keys Reefs
The only living coral reefs in the continental US are located right here in the Florida Keys. These reefs stretch from Miami all the way past the Dry Tortugas holding vast amounts of different species of fish. Reef Fishing in the Keys presents all sorts of action as it is not uncommon to catch 20 different species of fish in one day! You can fish shallow on patch reefs in 15-35 feet of water or head to 80-130 feet for some mid-size reefs. For the venturesome explore depths up to 700 feet using electric reels for deep dropping. When fishing the reefs you’ll find bottom fish such as Groupers & Snappers along wtih some Pelagic species like Kingfish, Mackerel, Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish, Dolphin and more.
Night Reef Fishing
Night Reef Fishing trips out of Islamorada are a great way to fill an evening. If you think the Yellowtail bite is good during the day, wait until you see them feed at night! These fish are primarily nocturnal and when the sun goes down and the chum bag goes in the water, often times the Yellowtail will swarm to the boat. Mutton Snapper Fishing is also a great night time activity. The Mutton Snapper are another fish that primarily like to feed at night. While you are chumming and yellowtailing on the reef here in Islamorada, be sure to drop a live speedo or cigar minnow down to the bottom. You will most likely hook into some Mutton Snapper or even a Grouper. Sharks are also a nocturnal feeding reef fish here in Islamorada, so you are almost certain to encounter sharks on your night Reef Fishing trip here in the Florida Keys.
Patch Reef fishing
Patch Reef Fishing Trips are a playground for big and little kids! Here’s a fun fishing trip catered to the whole family. In a stress-free environment there’s only one goal – to have fun with an added bonus of catching fish. Here’s a great chance for anglers who are just starting out to fish the waters of the Florida Keys. A perfect introduction to the sportfishing world and the kids will have a ball with hours of entertainment… even without a TV!
Patch Reef Fishing is great for the kids and adults alike. On the inshore reefs, you can typically catch grouper, mangrove snappers, yellowtail snappers, mutton snappers, mackerel, and even some cobia and permit! There’s lots of amazing marine life such as Stingrays, Sharks, Spotted eagle rays, Turtles and Dolphins.
We can create an ideal adventure for you and your family. Just let us know exactly what you would like to do and we will do our best to accommodate your request. Snorkeling, beachcombing & sunsetting can all be part of the plan. If the weather is good we can even venture offshore to show you some real reef fishing. We can even cater your day with breakfast & lunch! Whatever it takes!
The J&A Charters fishing guides are well versed on different fishing techniques to give you the best fishing adventure possible. With many years of experience they will work with you to teach you the tricks of the trade. Different methods of fishing are used such as bottom fishing, drift baiting, kite fishing, trolling and live baiting.
Generally these types of trips are four, six & eight hours long depending on you. We keep these charters limited to four people or less to ensure a comfortable trip for all. You will find our Skiffs perfect for this type of fishing experience.
To book your next charter call J&A Charters at 1-855-GOT-BAIT (468-2248)