The grouper season here opens on 1 June. ? A shiny red-and-white fishing plug floated past our boat in the Gulf of Mexico, as we cast for trout on the Steinhatchee grass flats. Grouper can be caught on a wide variety of baits. These fish are extreme tackle testers so you better be ready for the battle with some high quality gear and some beefed up tackle. Fresh Fishing Reports from Crystal River. Reel wise, a Daiwa BGMQ8000 can handle just about anything out there. What Fish Are Biting in Crystal River, FL, While fishing the Inshore waters of Crystal River the options are endless. You wont be disappointed, 12645 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429. My boy Andy's l, Great day on the pond targeting Reds on fly. Web Design by SteamWorks | Page One Fishing. Shallow water or inshore fishing and grouper do not go hand in hand in most areas. It has high levels of mercury, which can cause problems such as bloody stool, mood swings, memory loss, or muscle weakness. As the cooler weather starts to set in, fall is upon us. We use 65lb braid and 100lb Fluorocarbon Leader to pull these fish from their homes. Or looking for where to fish in your own vessel? The Crystal River can be really shallow, so make sure you're out with an experienced captain. February 19, 2023. These lures track true straight out of the package and have good enough hooks to handle a quality grouper. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Keep it up. Another way to target Grouper is with trolling plug. Whether you're an inshore or offshore angler, there are incredible opportunities to catch some serious "dinners." The highlight, though, without a doubt, is chasing down shallow water grouper. We initially said hunt because thats exactly what fishing for grouper is like. You can certainly eat it if you wish! The best equipment for fishing for grouper is a heavy-duty rod and reel. One of the notable considerations of eating grouper is its mercury grade. See what fish are biting now in Crystal River and find out where to catch them. Now one might think that targeting Grouper in such shallow water would mean catching smaller fish, and while some fish are smaller, some of the largest Grouper we catch throughout the year come from these shallow depths. Consider using circle hooks when youre fishing for grouper in Crystal River. Learn all about it in our Oct fishing report. The two most popular species of grouper and snapper in Crystal River are Gag Grouper and Mangrove Snapper. Oops, there was an error sending your message. My boy Andy's l, Great day on the pond targeting Reds on fly. There are some species that can grow quite large. As for the Grouper Fishing here in Crystal River, we have been waiting for the water temperatures to drop and the days to get shorter to push those big gags into shallow water. How awesome would it be to put a Tarpon in the air or land a couple of Snook all before most folks pour their first cup of coffee? If so, lets talk about what they look like. This allows them to swallow large prey items like clams and crabs whole. At the same time, they are some of the best-tasting fish in the ocean and most do just fine with a cooler full of these two. The trout fishing has slowed down with warmer temperatures we have been fishing from 12-16 feet slow jigging mirrolure little johns in . Catching a grouper isnt the hard part. The gag groupers mouth can also open up wider than most other fish because it has muscles that allow it to expand and contract. Grouper can be caught on a variety of lures like spoons and jigs, but they are smart fish, so you need to be strategic about the type of bait you use as well as your choice of equipment. You dont have to buy a fishing boat or buy fishing gear. Some of our favorite baits include the Rapala X-Rap Magnum 15, 20, and 30 as well as the FMAG 18. Trolling lures are a great way to effectively cover ground and key in on the aggressive instinct of these strong fighters. All rights reserved. | Sitemap, Website Design & Marketing by Hooked Marketing, Max: 4 Inshore & Grouper / Max: 6 Scalloping. There are others, but these two have the densist population and are the most readily available to target. Great weather and great fishing. 12645 W Fort Island Trail They tend to stay close to the bottom where there is plenty of cover. . The Gulf Coast of Florida experienced a devastating weather event earlier this month when Hurricane Ian made land fall off the coast of Fort Myers Beach as a near category 5 storm. Looking for an Orvi, Shout out to my boy Casey Males for knocking out s, Another great day of fly fishing with my main man, This gorgeous view will becoming up For Sale very, Great Day fly fishing the Backcountry of Crystal R, One of my top 10 guiding moments!! Caught over grass flats with sabiki rigs or traps, these frisky baits are sure to catch a grouper's eye. If you are fishing for a large grouper fish, try casting very far out into the water. They can also be fished using live or dead bait such as cut fish or chicken parts. If you are new to the area, new to inshore grouper fishing, or traveling from afar to come and try your hand at this unique fishing opportunity, a seasoned guide will be key. found some trout only one keeper. The snook bite continues to stay really strong on the hard incoming tides on the outside points using live bait and fast moving weedless jerkbaits. Caught trout, Spanish mackerel, and red fish. Fishing reports for the Crystal River, Florida area, including Homosassa. Spring time is coming in Spanish mackerel are coming in. Happy Holidays Anglers. Pinfishes are demersal fish, meaning they spend most of their time in the shallow waters near the bottom of the ocean. Fish to 20 pounds are not unusual, and trust me, theres nothing like battling one of these bruisers on spinning tackle in shallow water. Come along with Captain Jayce on a fishing charter, and get ready to hook the catch of a lifetime. This will help you identify them when its time to go out on your fishing trip. Its a relaxing and exciting experience that allows you to connect with friends, family, and nature alike. Casey. Covering the inshore and offshore waters of Floridas Big Bend. Let's work on making this year the best year ever!!!. Crystal River Grouper Fishing If you ever wondered about one of the best grouper fishing opportunities in the state of Florida, wonder no more. Crystal River is a great place to go for fishing charters. Back in early 60's the US Navy used our coastal waters to test dummy MK 82 bombs and Mk 76 smoke bombs. The health benefits of this fish include low-fat content, omega-3 fatty acids, high protein, and a lot of vitamins. A beautiful scenery paired with a healthy and thriving habitat provides an amazing estuary for fish such as, When it comes to fishing, the gag grouper can be a challenge. Gag Grouper In Crystal River Some anglers like to use lures or bait, while others prefer to simply wade into the water and cast their line out. While these underwater structures hold gag grouper, it is not every single one of them. Read Crystal River fishing reports from March 2023. Had an amazing family on the boat today. facebook; youtube; instagram; 352-601-1963; . Offering up to date, strategies, productive areas and hot baits. Consider the following advice on how to catch and hook the catch of a lifetime, right here in Crystal River, FL. These fish have an uncanny ability to bury the rod and get off in the rocks. However, they can also be found in temperate environments. Although not as durable, frozen baits can get the job done as well. Bring a hat and sunblock and a good attitude, there's gold here!!! | Sitemap, Website Design & Marketing by Hooked Marketing, Max: 4 Inshore & Grouper / Max: 6 Scalloping. When we were out, we had a descent breeze, but it's still really warm. Be sure to have beefy tackle adequate enough to stop these very strong fish from getting you back to the rocks. That said, there is a peak activity season where most anglers switch to targeting them specifically. Here at Crystal River Guide Service, Captain Casey is your local go-to inshore grouper fishing guide in Crystal River. I want to be just like capt Casey when I grow up., Casey Russell is a highly experienced guide. Its keeping it. This will allow you to cast over a larger area and increase your chance of catching one. Tons of redfish, trout, mackeral, and cobia invading the area. Should You Go Fishing in Crystal River in January. June is primarily dedicated to Gag Grouper, as it is one of our most popular species to target. It is relatively easy to identify grouper fish. Skip to main content. Trying to decide what time of year to. Thats the word that comes to mind as I try my best to describe the latest fishing action here along the Nature Coast. A fishing charter is a great way to enjoy a day out with friends or family while catching fish at the same time. The best Grouper fishing found along Crystal River and Homosassa can be found along the shallow waters of our Foul Area also known as the Old Bombing Range. Typically, fishing the 8-25 foot range October-December allows anglers a chance to land the fish of a lifetime and take home some delicious fillets. Inshore, grouper, tarpon, scalloping, and fly fishing news. Inshore Half Day(4 Hours) 1-2 People, 20212023 Crystal River Sport Fishing. I love fishing the Nature Coast. All of the great guides here at Reel Florida Fishing Charters hope that 2022 was a prosperous year for everyone and we wish all of you the very best going into 2023. Including Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River, Yankeetown, Waccasassa, and Cedar Key. Nick Warrington Sep 16, 2021 A look into the best grouper fishing in the state of Florida You've probably seen it on TV or you've seen it on YouTube: shallow water grouper fishing puts Crystal River on the map. Gag Grouper and Redfish is the staple of Crystal River Fishing and there is no better time than now to catch multiples of these species in a day with the chance of breaking your personal best on the very next cast. 12645 W Fort Island Trail These grouper, Another awesome day chasing tailing Redfish along, Good times today with the family here in Crystal R, Talk about a fun day!!!! Fishing charters take anglers out along the Crystal River to catch gag grouper. Web Design by SteamWorks | Page One Fishing, Your Crystal River Spring 2023 Fishing Guide, Crystal River, Florida, is a prime fishing destination with various species to catch and beautiful, Its Almost Tarpon Time: Catching The Silver King, Its almost that time of year again when Tarpon makes its annual migration to the, February Species to Target on Crystal River Fishing Charters, Crystal River is a renowned fishing destination in Florida, famous for its picturesque waterways and, Crystal River Kayak Fishing: an Unforgettable Adventure, Crystal River, located in the Gulf of Mexico, is a fishing paradise and offers exceptional, Your February Guide to Fishing in Crystal River, Crystal River, located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, offers some of the most incredible, Counting Sheepshead: Crystal River Winter Fishing Guide, Crystal River is one of the most active inshore fisheries found anywhere, during any time, Fishing Trip Packages: The Ultimate Florida Getaway, Fishing in Florida is one of the state's most beloved pastimes, and what better way, Top Tips For Sneaking Up On Shallow Water Species, The thrill of stalking your prey in shallow waters is an unmatchable experience for any, If you're looking for a fulfilling and exciting day on the water, look no further, As one of the best spots for world-class fishing, nearly all anglers find it hard, Four Fish To Target During Extreme Winter Tides, Are you looking for an adrenaline-packed fishing experience this winter in Crystal River? John. Because its all about gag grouper fishing this time of year. Are you ready to hook some gag grouper? We are the experienced fishing character that can help you catch grouper, along with many other types of fish. #discovercrystalriver #pa, Catching a few fish on these rainy Florida days wi, Great day on the pond with my good friend James Ph. Check out our June Fishing Report to learn the inside tips and tricks to catching grouper. Its a very accessible place with plenty of different fish species, and its always an exciting time. We look forward to. I always tell my clients the first three cranks are the most important, if you can get three cranks, most of the time you already have that fish coming to the boat. Welcome to Tarpon Country ladies and gentlemen!!! You can expect your captain to be friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced when you go on a charter. These young anglers put on a fishing cli. The trout fishing has slowed down with warmer temperatures we have been fishing from 12-16 feet slow jigging mirrolure little johns in root beer and watermelon red on a 1/4 ounce jig head. The sun is no joke. Richard P. from PA. Our group had a blast with Capt. Keep in mind that you dont want to set the hook when you use circle hooks. And good to eat. Really good fighting fish. While your selection of fishing hooks is a personal choice, a circle hook can leverage your grouper fishing experience. Sardines and threadfin herring are a good option if live bait isn't available. Thats why so many people decide to go fishing for grouper in Crystal River! Grouper fishing in Crystal River is typically done by bottom fishing with live bait, and the best time to fish for grouper is during the cooler months. Fishing Reports Catch Us Book Now (813) 486-4642 Your Ultimate Fishing Adventurein Crystal River Starts Here! captnickwarrington@gmail.com. As for the Redfishing here in Crystal River, it couldnt be any better. As for the Grouper Fishing here in Crystal River, we have been waiting for the water temperatures to drop and the days to get shorter to push those big gags into shallow water. Whats not to love about warm sunny days and ice-cold celebratory cocktails? When is the best month to go goliath grouper fishing in Crystal River? Again concentrate on the early morning and late afternoon bites for more success on the water in the dog days of summer. data-event-category="Navigation header guest". However, the reward has been well worth it for anglers willing to bundle up and put in the time. In fact, the area has been one of the most popular charter fishing spots in this part of Florida for many decades now thanks to the accessibility and abundant natural resources. Redfish and Snook on fly + Grouper are lurking. This is a popular spot with the locals with a great atmosphere. Generally, 65-80 pound braided main line and 80-100 pound leader gets the job done. We got into the trout and found some to take home, then switched gears and went hunting for reds and they delivered! While there are many opinions out there on what that might be, we like to use pinfish for grouper bait. Gag grouper fish will often hide in crevices, under ledges, or among rocks and coral. Keep up the sunscreen and watch the weather because it can change in an hour. Water is nice and warm in the summer. Youll see copious amounts of wildlife and experience the beauty of this area! The captain can also offer bait if needed. As extreme, A private scallop charter in Crystal River, Florida is the perfect activity for a group of friends looking to relax, connect and enjoy some quality time in the beauty of, Fishing & Scalloping Charter PricingGroups larger than 4 (for fishing) and larger than 6 (for scalloping) can be accommodated with another captain(s) if requested. The weather here in Crystal River this time of year is what we all dream of. All rights reserved. What to expect on your upcoming charter? Check out the May fishing report for Crystal River Fishing, offering insight on what's biting now! . Sport Fishing Slip Grouper fish tend to be drawn to structure so they can often be found on reefs or near docks and jetties. There can be a few cold fronts that move through, but . Crystal River is a great place to go for both saltwater and freshwater fishing charters. This is the place to be if you want to catch fish or just enjoy the water. Sport Fishing Slip Sign me up as a fan Im often asked how we choose the guides that work with us here at Reel Florida Fishing Charters. The grouper bite is staying steady especially for the heat of summer the summer time storms have been keeping the water temperatures down. Grouper has a subtle taste and it is not overly fishy. With water temps in the 70's fishing in 10-30' of water has been very good and as it continues to cool off we only expect it to get better. Cool mornings with warm afternoons making for a great fishing environment is what we live for. The weather this year has provided challenges and opportunities to change up our tactics and find fish in places where they maybe wouldnt have been in a normal" season. For many people, freshwater fishing charters in Florida are the main attraction. Including Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River, Yankeetown, Waccasassa, and Cedar Key. How shallow one may ask? Email Address: Crystal River, FL 34429, 2023 Crystal River Fishing Charters. . Crystal River is known for its gorgeous clear waters, but did you know its also a hot spot for grouper fishing? It was a good find and something I could certainly use, a big Mann's Stretch 30 trolling plug. For example, the best time to go fishing for gag grouper is between June-December. #realsal, God! The weather here in Crystal River this time of year is what we all dream of. Learn all about the benefits of charter fishing here this time of year. Love th, Another tough winter day here in Florida. Located on US Hwy 19, Grannies kitchen has over 2,000 Google reviews and 4.6 stars. 8000 sized spinning reels spooled with 65-80 pound braid and 80 pound leader is what you need to get these fish in the boat. As extreme, A private scallop charter in Crystal River, Florida is the perfect activity for a group of friends looking to relax, connect and enjoy some quality time in the beauty of, Fishing & Scalloping Charter PricingGroups larger than 4 (for fishing) and larger than 6 (for scalloping) can be accommodated with another captain(s) if requested. The action is a little . Contact Fish Hunter Tours and Captain Bryan Frechette for a great fishing trip. One thing that makes our area special is the abilty to cast and troll for these fish. 2023 FishingBooker.com. Looking to go fishing in Crystal River in January? Casey is a god, basically the best fisherman ever. The speckled sea trout bite has been great the red fish are moving out to the outer islands wanting to feed plenty of sheep pad and mangrove snapper on the rock piles. Learn all about the different snapper varieties here. So no matter when you decide to go, youll always have plenty of fish to catch. Great fishery, things heat up in the warmer monthes.. April is stormy and unpredictable. We will be back., Irene Rubin Fort worth, Texas Great Guide- Great Fishing, Matt A. from Kill Devil Hills, NC I mean, capt. Thankfully the Nature Coast, which includes Crystal River and . Big spinning reels or conventional reels spooled up with a 60-80lbs braid paired with a 60-80lbs leader will give you the upper hand in putting these fish in the boat. Have fun and enjoy!! Email Us! Theres a reason they call is Red October. Schools of large upper slot and overslot redfish line the outer islands of the St. Martins Keys making for extremely fun sight fishing opportunities in crystal clear water. My go-to rod and reel is be either a Daiwa BG MQ or Saltist MQ 8000 paired with a Fitzgerald Fishing Stunner HD 74 Extra Heavy. The time we have all been looking forward to, cooler weather, has arrived here in Crystal River!