5.0(1 Reviews)6 HR Reef Fishing Adventure with Ben O'fishal
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Wrecks/Reefs Fishing
Sixhour reef and wreck fishing targeting multiple speciesSmall group adventure accommodating up to six guests maximumProfessional guidance for snapper, grouper, sailfish, and dolphin
Looking for a solid day on the water that delivers both action and variety? This 6-hour fishing adventure hits all the right spots – literally. We're talking reef fishing, wreck drops, and some offshore action all rolled into one trip. With Ben O'fishal Sportfishing, you'll get the kind of mixed-bag fishing that keeps your rod bent and your cooler full. Perfect for up to 6 anglers, whether you're bringing the crew or looking to join other fishing enthusiasts for a day you won't forget.
This isn't your typical half-day run. Six hours gives us real time to work different structures and adjust our game plan based on what's biting. We'll start by hitting some productive reefs where the snappers hang out, then move to wreck sites where the big groupers like to ambush baitfish. If conditions are right, we'll push offshore for some pelagic action – think sailfish and mahi cutting through the blue water. The boat's set up for comfort too, with plenty of shade when you need a break and a functional head for longer trips. Ben and his crew know these waters inside and out, so you're fishing with guys who can read the conditions and put you on fish consistently.
We'll be working three distinct fishing environments, each requiring different approaches. On the reefs, we're dropping baits in 60-80 feet of water, using circle hooks with cut ballyhoo or pinfish to target snapper and smaller grouper. The wrecks are where things get serious – we'll anchor up or drift over structure in deeper water, dropping heavy tackle with live or cut baits to pull those big gags and reds out of their holes. When we head offshore, we switch to trolling spread with ballyhoo, bonito strips, and artificial lures to cover water and find the pelagics. The crew handles all the rigging and re-baiting, so you can focus on fighting fish. They'll also help beginners with technique and make sure everyone's using the right tackle for each spot we fish.
"We had an amazing 3/4 day trip and caught plenty of fish! Ben and Alex were incredibly friendly and helpful, and they were fantastic with our two teenage boys. We reeled in tons of yellowtail snapper, a few large mutton snapper, a giant Amberjack, and more! We also hooked a couple of sailfish, though we didn't land one. The boat was very comfortable, with shaded areas to relax (perfect for my son, who loves taking boat naps) and a functional head, which is always a plus on longer trips. It was a great experience, and we'll definitely book again on our next trip to Marathon!" - Jill
Red Grouper are the bread and butter of our reef and wreck fishing. These chunky bottom dwellers typically run 8-15 pounds, though we regularly see fish pushing 20. They're ambush predators that sit tight to structure, so once you hook one, expect a bulldogging fight straight down. Red grouper are most active during cooler months, and they're fantastic table fare with firm, white meat that's perfect for grilling or frying. What makes them exciting is that initial hit – they slam baits hard and immediately try to get back to their holes.
Mahi Mahi bring the offshore excitement to this trip. Also called dolphinfish or dorado, these electric-colored speedsters are pure adrenaline on light tackle. Most mahi we catch range from 10-25 pounds, though bull dolphins over 40 pounds show up regularly in warmer months. They're aggressive feeders that'll hit trolled baits, live bait, or even lures cast to floating debris. Mahi are prized for their acrobatic fights – expect multiple jumps and long runs. Plus, they're outstanding eating with sweet, flaky meat that's perfect for fish tacos or blackened preparations.
Red Snapper are the crown jewel of reef fishing when they're in season. These beautiful fish typically run 5-15 pounds in our waters, with occasional monsters pushing 20-plus. Reds are structure-oriented and feed heavily on crabs, small fish, and squid. They're notorious for their subtle bite – you need to stay sharp and set the hook at the first tap. What makes red snapper special is their combination of fight and flavor. They pull hard for their size and are considered by many to be the best-eating fish in the Gulf, with sweet, firm meat that's perfect for any preparation.
Black Grouper are the heavyweights of our wreck fishing. These bruisers commonly exceed 20 pounds, with fish over 40 pounds always a possibility around deeper wrecks. Black grouper are more aggressive than their red cousins and will often hit moving baits or lures. They're incredibly strong fighters that use their broad tails and knowledge of structure to their advantage. The thrill of black grouper fishing is never knowing if you've hooked a 15-pounder or a 50-pounder until you get them boat-side. They're excellent eating too, with dense, meaty fillets perfect for the grill.
Gag Grouper round out our grouper slam possibilities. These fish are perhaps the strongest pound-for-pound fighters we target, known for their ability to sound deep and wrap lines around structure. Gags typically run 10-25 pounds, though 30-plus pound fish aren't uncommon. They're more nomadic than other grouper species, often found in mid-water over wrecks or hard bottom. What makes gag grouper special is their tenacious fight – they simply don't give up. Even a 15-pound gag will test your tackle and endurance. Their meat is slightly different from other grouper, with a firmer texture that holds up
This beautifully restored 42-foot Morgan sportfishing boat is your ticket to prime reef and wreck fishing grounds. Built for serious anglers, she's powered by twin 325HP Caterpillar engines that'll get you to the fish fast and smooth. The 2020 restoration means everything's in top shape for your 6-hour adventure targeting snapper, grouper, sailfish, and dolphin. With room for 6 guests, you'll have plenty of space to work the rods without crowding. The flybridge gives you great views of the action, while the fish finder and GPS ensure we're always on the money. Keep your catch fresh in the icebox and your drinks cold in the onboard fridge. The radar keeps us safe in any weather, and there's a private head for comfort during those longer battles with big fish. Whether you're working the reefs or exploring productive wrecks, this classic sportfisher has the power and features to make your day on the water productive and comfortable.
Mycteroperca BonaciBlack grouper are the heavyweights of the reef, offering some of the toughest fights you'll find. Most run 10-30 pounds, but 50+ pounders aren't uncommon around deeper structures. They hang around wrecks, ledges, and reefs from 30-300 feet, moving shallower in winter months. These ambush predators aren't picky - live or dead bait works, just get it to the bottom where they live. What guests love is the pure power - they'll try to drag you straight back to the rocks. The meat is mild, firm, and excellent eating. Spawning season runs November through May, which can be prime time. You'll need heavy tackle - 80lb braid minimum with 100lb leader. Pro tip: when you feel that thump, start cranking immediately. Don't give them time to think or they'll wrap you up in the structure below.
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag grouper are solid fighters that offer great action around structure. They typically run 15-25 pounds, with some reaching 50+ pounds. You'll find them around rocky bottoms, reefs, and drop-offs, with juveniles staying closer inshore. They love crabs and shrimp, so live bait like mullet and pinfish work best, though cut squid and crab are productive too. Spring and fall fishing tends to be most consistent when they're feeding actively. What makes them popular is their strong fight and excellent table quality - firm white meat that's perfect for any recipe. Like most grouper, they'll try to get back to the rocks once hooked. Standard bottom gear works fine - 30-40lb line handles most situations. Pro tip: look for stone crab traps when you're scouting - gags love hanging around them for easy meals.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi mahi are some of the most colorful fighters you'll encounter offshore. These golden beauties average 15-30 pounds but can hit 50+ pounds. Look for them around floating debris, weed lines, or anywhere there's current. They're surface dwellers that love to jump and put on a show when hooked. The meat is firm, white, and mild - perfect for the grill. They spawn year-round, so there's always a chance to hook into one, but warmer months tend to be more productive. What guests love most is watching them change colors when brought to the boat - it's like a light show. Best technique is trolling with ballyhoo or live bait, keeping it skipping on the surface. Once you hook one, there's usually more around, so get another line in fast.
Epinephelus MorioRed grouper are the backbone of our reef fishing trips. These rusty-red fighters typically run 5-10 pounds, though we see some pushing 20+ pounds. You'll find them hanging around rocky bottoms, ledges, and wrecks in 30-200 feet of water. They're not picky eaters - shrimp, crab, and cut bait all work well. What makes them special is the fight and the table fare. They'll try to drag you straight back to the rocks once hooked, so keep that drag tight. The meat is firm, flaky, and has that sweet shellfish taste that makes them a favorite dinner choice. Best fishing is typically spring through fall when they're more active. Pro tip: once you hook one, crank hard and fast to get them off the bottom before they wrap you up in the structure.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the prize of any bottom fishing trip. These bright red beauties average 2-8 pounds, but the occasional 15+ pounder will really test your gear. They live around structure in 30-200+ feet - reefs, wrecks, and rocky ledges are prime spots. Summer months are typically best when they're spawning and more aggressive. What makes them special is the combination of a solid fight and outstanding table fare - sweet, flaky white meat that's restaurant quality. They're true warriors that'll head straight for cover when hooked, so you need to muscle them up quickly. Fresh squid and cigar minnows are hard to beat for bait. Pro tip: use a heavy enough weight to get down fast and keep your drag locked tight - give them an inch and they'll find a hole to break you off in.
5.0 out of 5.0We had an amazing 3/4 day trip and caught plenty of fish! Ben and Alex were incredibly friendly and helpful, and they were fantast...
Marathon