5 Hr Inshore/Nearshore Pensacola Fishing
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
5-hour inshore and nearshore fishing charter in Pensacola watersExpert Captain Craig Mick provides gear, bait, and fishing licensesSmall group experience accommodating up to 4 guests maximum
Picture yourself casting lines in some of Florida's most productive waters, where the emerald Gulf meets sugar-white beaches and fish bite like they mean it. Captain Craig Mick and Brighter Days Sport Fishing have been putting anglers on fish in Pensacola for years, and this 5-hour inshore/nearshore trip is your ticket to what could be the best fishing day of your life. We're talking about waters that hold everything from hard-fighting red snapper to monster king mackerel, all within a reasonable run from the dock. Your gear, bait, and licenses are handled, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm and maybe a cooler for your catch.
This top-rated charter strikes the perfect balance between inshore protection and nearshore action. Captain Craig starts by reading the conditions - wind, tide, and recent fish reports all factor into where you'll spend your day. The beauty of this 5-hour window is the flexibility it offers. If the nearshore bite is hot, you might find yourself over structure in 40-60 feet of water, dropping jigs and live bait for snapper and grouper. When conditions call for it, you'll work the inshore grass flats and drop-offs where amberjack and king mackerel patrol. The boat stays comfortable with up to 4 anglers, giving everyone plenty of room to work without tangled lines or stepped-on toes. Captain Craig's local knowledge shines here - he knows which reefs fire up with the tide changes and where the bait schools that attract the big predators.
You'll be fishing with quality conventional and spinning gear matched to whatever's biting best that day. For the deeper nearshore spots, expect to drop bottom rigs loaded with cut bait or live pinfish for red snapper and grouper. The captain keeps a variety of weights and hook sizes to match conditions - sometimes you need a 6-ounce sinker to get down in the current, other times a lighter approach works better. When targeting pelagics like king mackerel, the setup switches to wire leaders and trolling spoons or live bait on downriggers. Don't worry if you've never worked a downrigger before - Captain Craig walks you through everything. The inshore action often calls for lighter tackle and more finesse, especially when working structure for triggerfish or amberjack. Live bait is king out here, and the boat carries a selection of cigar minnows, pinfish, and whatever's running fresh that morning.
Red snapper remain the crown jewel of Pensacola's nearshore waters, and for good reason. These ruby-red fighters typically run 2-8 pounds in these waters, though double-digit fish show up regularly over the right structure. They're most active during moving water, especially the first two hours of incoming tide. What makes red snapper so popular isn't just their fight - they're phenomenal on the table. The season typically runs through fall, making this time frame perfect for targeting them over rocky bottom and artificial reefs.
Scamp grouper might be the most underrated fish in the Gulf. These spotted beauties average 3-12 pounds and fight like fish twice their size once they feel the hook. Unlike their larger gag cousins, scamp tend to hold in slightly deeper water and are more willing to bite during daylight hours. They're curious fish that often follow baits up from the bottom before deciding to eat, making for some exciting visual fishing when the water's clear. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall.
King mackerel are pure adrenaline on a fishing line. These silver bullets can stretch 20-40 inches and make blistering runs that'll have you questioning your drag setting. Kings are most active during the warmer months and often show up in schools, meaning when you find one, there's usually more around. They're notorious for their sharp teeth and acrobatic jumps, making wire leaders essential. The best action typically happens early morning or late afternoon when they're actively feeding on bait schools.
Grey triggerfish are the ultimate test of angling skill and patience. These diamond-shaped fish have small mouths but big attitudes, often stealing bait before you know they're there. What they lack in size - most run 1-3 pounds - they make up for in fight and flavor. Triggers are structure-oriented fish that love hard bottom and artificial reefs. They're most cooperative during the summer months and require small hooks and fresh bait to consistently hook up.
Greater amberjack are the muscle cars of the reef. These bronze bruisers can easily top 20-30 pounds and will test both your tackle and your back muscles. AJ's are aggressive predators that respond well to both live bait and vertical jigs worked over structure. They're year-round residents but bite best during the spring and fall months when water temperatures are more moderate. Landing a big amberjack in current over structure is a true test of angling skill.
Captain Craig and Brighter Days Sport Fishing have built their reputation one satisfied angler at a time, and this 5-hour trip showcases exactly why they're considered among Pensacola's best. The combination of local expertise, quality equipment, and productive waters creates the kind of fishing experience that keeps people coming back season after season. Whether you're new to saltwater fishing or a seasoned angler looking to explore new waters, this charter delivers the goods. The 4-person limit ensures personalized attention and plenty of room to fish comfortably. With gear, bait, and licenses included, all that's left is showing up ready to fish. Don't let this opportunity slip by - prime dates fill up fast, especially during peak season.
The 25' Contender center console puts you right in the action for Pensacola's prime fishing waters. Powered by a reliable 300HP Suzuki engine, this boat cuts through the Gulf at speeds up to 45 knots, getting you to the hotspots fast. The spacious layout comfortably handles up to 4 anglers with plenty of room to fight fish and move around the deck. Modern electronics include GPS navigation and a quality fish finder to locate structure and baitfish. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over productive spots without spooking the fish. Whether you're targeting redfish in the shallows or heading to nearshore reefs for snapper and grouper, this well-equipped vessel handles both inshore backcountry runs and open Gulf conditions. Captain Craig knows these waters inside and out, putting his local knowledge to work finding where the fish are biting. The boat's center console design gives everyone easy access to the action while providing a stable platform for landing your catch.
Seriola dumerili<h2><span style="color:#000000;">Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) Description</span></h2><p><span style="color:#000000;">The greater amberjack is a saltwater game fish that can reach 6 feet in length. The fish’s body is a bluish-grey or dark grey color, with a silvery-white stomach. You can also identify this species by the amber stripe in the middle of its body. The dark amber strip on their head extends to its first dorsal fin becomes a darker color when the fish is feeding or excited. It is a slender fish with a pointed head and small eyes. </span></p><p> </p><h2><span style="color:#000000;">Interesting Facts </span></h2><ul><li><span style="color:#000000;">The Greater Amberjack is a popular recreational game fish in North America because of its size. However, being at the apex of the marine food chain also means that this fish carries a considerable risk of ciguatera poisoning. </span></li><li><span style="color:#000000;">It is greatly prized for its high quality meat and commercial value. </span></li><li><span style="color:#000000;">Currently, it is considered one of the most important species in the commercial production of fish around the Mediterranean, and in North and South America. </span></li></ul><p> </p><h2><span style="color:#000000;">Size </span></h2><p><span style="color:#000000;">This fish grows to 6.2 feet in length and on average reach a weight of 39 pounds. They live up to 17 years, reaching sexual maturity at around 4 to 5 years old. Typically, females grow larger and live longer than their male counterparts. </span></p><p> </p><h2><span style="color:#000000;">Fishing Habitat and Distribution </span></h2><p><span style="color:#000000;">The Greater Amberjack can be found on the eastern coast of the United States in the Atlantic Ocean the Gulf of Mexico to the Caribbean Sea.</span></p><h2><span style="color:#000000;">Diet and Spawning</span></h2><p><span style="color:#000000;">The Greater Amberjack primarily feeds on smaller fish and marine invertebrates. Their diet includes squid, crustaceans, sardines, and bigeye scad. </span></p><p><span style="color:#000000;">The spawning period is from April to May. </span></p><h2><span style="color:#000000;">Fishing Technique - How to catch Greater Amberjack</span></h2><p><span style="color:#000000;">Anglers can use trolling, casting or drifting techniques. </span></p><p> Amberjacks are most often caught aboard boats with heavy rods and reels with lines testing 50 pounds or more. An experienced angler with light tackle can be successful with spinning and baitcasting rigs, and even fly rods. Plugs, spoons, jigs, or even fly streamers and poppers can be used. <span style="color:#000000;">Both metal jigs or live baitfish are effective in Amberjack fishing since the species is not that picky when it comes to its prey. </span> The best bait with heavy tackle though is live fish.</p>
Balistes Capriscus<h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Grey Triggerfish (Balistes capriscus) Fish Description</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Grey Triggerfish, also referred to as the Leatherjacket, Leatherneck, or Taly, is a ray-finned fish.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">They primarily have a pale grey, greenish-grey, or yellowish-brown hue. Its body has three indistinct broad dark stripes, and a pale streak on its chin. The upper part of their eye is blue. There are occasionally some small blue spots and lines on the upper parts of its body and the dorsal fins and sometimes white spots and lines on the lower areas. The body color of the Grey Triggerfish fades a little over time as it gets older. </span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">To distinguish them from their species, the Grey Triggerfish has a small, beak-like mouth and by the tip of the snout, it has fleshy lips. Their eyes are far back, near the top of its head. For its body, it's rather laterally compressed and with tough, leather-like skin. The front dorsal fins have three spines, the first spine being stronger and longer in comparison to the other two. The second dorsal fin has 26-29 soft rays, and is the same shape and size as the anal fin below it, but has no spines and 23-26 soft rays. The pectoral fins of the Grey Triggerfish are small and rounded. And the caudal fins outer rays are large and long. They have large scales on their head and front of the body, and smaller, smoother scales on their hind.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"> </span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Diet and Size</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Grey Triggerfish are carnivores. They consume prey such as crabs, shrimp, sea urchins, worms, and other invertebrates or smaller fish. They often pick at clams and other animals attached to corals, as they are known to wreak havoc on less than fortunate reef dwellers. </span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The Grey Triggerfish is a medium-sized fish that can grow to 24 in, but their average length is no longer than 17 in. And they can weigh up to 13 pounds.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"> </span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Interesting Facts</strong></span></h2><ul><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">When the Grey Triggerfish feel threatened, they can slip into small crevices, using their distinct shape, and erect their dorsal fins to lock them into place, firmly wedging themselves in their hiding spot.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Grey Triggerfish have such sharp teeth, that they can use them to cut into preys with hard shells, like sea urchins and starfish.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Smaller fish often follow Grey Triggerfish, because these fish are notably to wreak havoc on the lesser fortuned reef dwellers that the small fish can feast on the leftovers.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"> </span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Fishing Techniques</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">As an angler, when fishing for a Grey Triggerfish, you’d best try bodies of water with hard bottoms, ledges, and reefs. They are often found in nearshore and offshore locations, in seaward reefs, bays and lagoons just about 180 ft. from the surface.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">This type of fish would go for almost any bait thrown towards its direction, but you can try squid because it sticks better onto the hooks in comparison to other baits. When using squid, a chunk that is about an inch wide would be good so it wouldn’t slip off when fishing. Since Grey triggerfish tend to nip at the bait before taking it in, unlike snapper fish, you can try appealing to their greed towards food by dropping your bait near other fish, like some snapper or grouper. So when the Grey Triggerfish see the others heading towards the bait, they’ll charge on out to steal it!</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">When you drop your baited hook to the bottom, (and remember, since Grey Triggerfish are located near the bottom, to use a 6 to 8 ounces heavy sinker,) reel it immediately to maintain the line tension, so you can feel even the softest of bites. Then when you feel a bite, start reel it in as fast as you can while keeping the rod stable.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"> </span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Habitat and Distribution</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Grey Triggerfish can be found in Florida, but also inhabit parts of the South and Western Atlantic Ocean. </span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The Grey Triggerfish principally lives in shallow waters. Its native range goes from Nova Scotia and up to the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, Bermuda, and southwards to Argentina. They are often found in nearshore and offshore locations, in seaward reefs, rocky areas, bays, and lagoons just about 180 ft. from the surface.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">As a result of the movement of water in the Gulf Stream, they may have crossed the Atlantic, around the British Isles, in the Mediterranean Sea, and off the coast of Angola.</span></p>
Scomberomorus Cavalla<h2><strong>King Mackerel (</strong><i><strong>Scomberomorus cavalla</strong></i><strong>) Fish Description</strong></h2><p>Also known as Spanish Mackerel or Kingfish, this migratory species belongs to the mackerel family specifically found in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. </p><p>What makes the King Mackerel striking are the small and vaguely visible, loosely attached scales on their entire body. Its dorsal fin is totally without color and usually folded back into a groove (same with the pelvic fins). Generally, King Mackerel are olive in color on the back parts, with a white underbelly, and rosy, iridescent sides. The smaller King Mackerel may have some brown to yellowish spots on the flanks, smaller than that of the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-mackerel">Atlantic Mackerel</a>. Interestingly, the teeth of King Mackerel are highly similar to that of the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/bluefish">Bluefish</a>. </p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel Diet and Size</strong></h2><p>As an opportunistic carnivore with a voracious appetite, King Mackerel have several choices on their food menu. Depending on the season, they may feast on <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/blue-runner">Blue Runner</a>, Northern Mackerel, Striped Anchovy, <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/squeteague">Weakfish</a>, Cutlassfish, Jack, Menhaden, and squid. </p><p>This fish is considered of medium size, typically weighing around 30 pounds; some King Mackerel caught weighed a little over 90 pounds. Females weigh more than males. For example, at 7 years old, a female King Mackerel can weigh 22 pounds, whereas the male is only half as heavy.</p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>Interesting Facts About the King Mackerel </strong></h2><ul><li>The sperm and eggs of King Mackerel are spread into the sea; they are fertilized by chance.</li><li>Fertilized eggs of King Mackerel hatch in less than a day!</li><li>King Mackerel started being marketed fresh only in 2005. Their grayish flesh has a high fat content.</li><li>Along with <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-goldeneye-tilefish">Tilefish</a>, Shark, and <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/swordfish">Swordfish</a>, King Mackerel should be avoided by children and pregnant women due to their high mercury content.</li><li>The King Mackerel is often mistaken for the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-spanish-mackerel">Atlantic Spanish Mackerel</a> and <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/cero">Cero Mackerel</a>. To distinguish them, know that the last two species’ lateral aliens slope gradually from the gill’s top edge to the tail, whereas the King Mackerel’s stops mid-body.</li></ul><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel — Fishing Techniques</strong></h2><p>King Mackerel belong to the most sought-after gamefish in Texas to North Carolina. They are popular due to their speed which is matched only by the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/wahoo">Wahoo</a>, their distant relative. </p><p>The most common ways of capturing King Mackerel are by jigging, trolling, and using live or dead bait, spoons, and other artificial lures.</p><p>Commercial anglers use gear consisting of run-around gill nets. Recreational anglers typically troll using large planers, heavy tackle, and lures. </p><p>If you plan to use live bait, make sure to tie two hooks to a strong metal leader. The first hook (single/treble) must be attached to the live bait’s mouth and/or nose. The second hook (treble) must be put through the bait’s back or allowed to dangle. You must do these because King Mackerel are known to bite the rear section of a live bait.</p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel Habitat and Distribution</strong></h2><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/King_Mackerel_Heat_Map_c15f9805ba.webp" alt=""></figure><p>As a subtropical fish, King Mackerel are found mainly in the Atlantic Coast along the US. They are highly abundant in Brazil, especially Rio de Janeiro, and are also found in North Carolina. This fish also inhabits the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf of Maine, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.</p><p>King Mackerel are commonly found in depths ranging from 40 feet to 150 feet. The bigger King Mackerel are usually found inshore, particularly in harbors and inlets with waters as deep as 590 feet. They occur in waters with temperatures in the range of 68 to 84°F. </p>
Lutjanus Campechanus<h2><strong>Red Snapper (Lutjanus campechanus)</strong> </h2><h3><strong>Fish Description </strong></h3><p>Red Snapper can grow very large. They are pink to light red in color when they are young, and as they mature they turn red over most of their body. The lower area of their body is pale-white in color. </p><p>They are popular with recreational fishermen as well as commercial seafood markets and restaurants. Snappers are bottom dwellers that are a trophy catch for anglers.</p><p> </p><figure class="image"><a href="https://guidesly.com/search"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/Fish_Species_Guide_Click_Banner_087dadb714.png" alt=""></a></figure><h3><strong>Habitat and Distribution</strong></h3><p>The Red Snapper is commonly found on the Atlantic coast of the US and the Gulf of Mexico. They like water temperatures of 50-70 degrees. Juveniles are found inshore and muddy bottoms. Adult snappers are found mainly near structure in deep water. </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/Snapper_HeatMap%401600x_15a36ea8e6.png" alt="Red Snapper Habitat Region Heatmap"><figcaption>Red Snapper Map of Habitat</figcaption></figure><p>Red snapper is commonly found at the depth of 30 - 620 feet in the Gulf of Mexico and down the eastern coast of the US.</p><h3><strong>Size </strong></h3><p>Red snapper can grow to 3 feet and weigh 35 pounds or more, but the average size caught is 1-2 feet long and weighs less than 10 pounds. The world record is 50 lbs 4 oz. the monster was caught off Louisiana water in 1966. Their lifespan is more than 20 years. </p><h3><strong>Spawning</strong></h3><p>Larger, matured Red Snapper produces more eggs than the young ones. A 24-inch female snapper (about 8 years) produces a large number of eggs as 212 17-inch females (about 5 years), most of the red snapper caught in the Gulf today is around 4-6 years old. </p><p>Fertilized eggs drift to the surface and hatch in about one day. After just a month, the young fish settle out of the water column in shallow water, and as they grow older they move to a regulated habitat where they will mature and eventually move to the deeper Gulf waters of the bay. The spawning season is between May and October. </p><p>The females lay eggs in rocky and shallow regions or on coral reefs. Generally, the eggs hatch within a day, and the young one settles out of the water column in shallow waters. </p><h3><strong>Fishing Techniques - How to Catch Red Snapper</strong></h3><p>Red Snapper can be caught using rigs, manual reels, handline, and electric reels, all dressed with heavyweights and multiple hooks. Lure with cigar minnows or fresh squid; pigfish or live pinfish will land the biggest snapper. Other effective bait is octopus, live squid, and shrimp, followed by small natural baitfish in the area. Keep in mind that you need to take the baits down the bottom to where the Red Snapper settles. When fishing Red Snapper, don’t forget that they are true warriors They will give you a real fight when hooked. They will often run to cover or near debris, which can be entangled or even cut your line. </p><p>Snappers can also be caught fly fishing. Some anglers like to work chum in the snapper area and then fly fish to rising fish. But if snapper is near the surface, fly fishing is a great and exciting technique. Rig setup is an 11 - 13-weight fly line tipped with Clouser minnows and deceivers. The key is presenting the fly to the snapper naturally. As the fly floats back toward the snapper, strip the line as you would normally retrieve the fly. The snapper will attack the moving fly.</p><h3><strong>Red Snapper Good to Eat? </strong> </h3><p>Absolutely! Red Snapper is a fish that has a mild and nutty taste. It is delicious and a very popular fish for at home and in restaurants<span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(32,33,36);">. It is considered one of the most in-demand fish. </span>To really experience the true essence of Red Snapper's taste, it is important to cook it with minimal seasoning. A light seasoning of salt and pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice is enough to enhance its natural flavor. Whether baked or pan-fried, this fish tastes delicious when cooked in a straightforward manner. Its taste is one of the main reasons why Red Snapper is such a popular dish among seafood enthusiasts. The next time you eat Red Snapper, try to savor its unique taste by keeping the seasoning simple.</p><p>This tasty fish will not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides numerous health benefits. From improving heart health to aiding in weight loss, red snapper is full of essential nutrients that can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. </p><h3>Health Benefits of Red Snapper</h3><p>Red Snapper is a highly satisfying seafood that is not only an absolute delight to taste buds, but also a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. In addition, Red Snapper is low in calories, high in protein, and low in saturated fats, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to maintain a healthy diet. It is rich in vitamins B12 and D, iron, and potassium, all of which are essential nutrients for a healthy life. As a result, consuming Red Snapper offers numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, improving brain function and memory, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin and hair. When it comes to choosing a delicious and healthy seafood option, Red Snapper is undoubtedly an excellent choice.</p><p> </p>
Mycteroperca Phenax<h2><strong>Scamp Grouper (Mycteroperca phenax) Fish Description</strong></h2><p>The scamp grouper (Mycteroperca phenax), also known as brow grouper, abadejo, or broom tail, is a saltwater fish mostly found in the Gulf of Mexico and southern Atlantic waters. It may look a little like its other grouper cousins because of its shape.; but can easily be identified though its elongated rays protruding from its tail fin, its deep tan to chocolate brown color, and the darker reddish to brown blotches that run along the sides of its body. </p><p>Even though this grouper eats anything that it can fit into its mouth, it mainly eats other smaller fish as well as crustaceans and octopus. Spawning season starts in February and usually ends around mid-May, peaking at around early March. And although it usually spends most of its life in the deeper parts of the water, it will head for shallower waters once spawning season starts. </p><p> </p><h2><strong>Interesting Facts About Scamp Grouper</strong></h2><ul><li>The largest Scamp Grouper caught weighs 32 pounds and measures 3.5 feet long.</li><li>They are slow but strong swimmers.</li><li>They are born female and transform into a male as they grow.</li><li>They are said to be the best tasting fish in the grouper family.</li><li>They are sometimes called “The Captain’s Meat” as they’re often served to the captain of boats.</li><li>Their meat contains large amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals.</li><li>They are best for losing weight as the meat is known to have low calories.</li><li>They can live up to fifty years.</li></ul><p> </p><h2><strong>Scamp Grouper Average Speed and Size</strong></h2><p>Though Scamp Groupers are slow swimmers, they are known to be strong. So if you happen to hook one, expect a long and tiring battle with the fish as even experienced anglers have had problems pulling it in. Also, Scamp Groupers are not that big as their relatives as average sizes only measures less than three feet and weighs four to six pounds. </p><p> </p><h2><strong>Where to Find Them</strong></h2><p>Scamp Groupers can be found hiding under structure such as rocks, ledges, wrecks, or reefs where it usually ambushes unknowing victims. They also live near the bottom of the water at around 75 to 300 feet deep; but, as already mentioned, they would be found in shallower waters during spawning seasons.</p><p>The scamp grouper is mainly found in the southern Atlantic waters as well in the Gulf of Mexico where it is most abundant and some of the huge ones have been sighted. However, smaller ones have also been sighted in Florida and northward along the East Coast to North Carolina, and as far north as Massachusetts.</p><p> </p><h2><strong>Scamp Grouper Fishing Tips</strong></h2><p>Thinking about Scamp Grouper fishing soon? Here are some tips that would help you catch this prized fish: </p><ol><li><strong>Tackle</strong> – a six and a half foot to seven foot medium to heavy conventional rod, along with a thirty to forty series reel is good enough to handle a medium to large sized Scamp Grouper. Because most of these fish lives far below the water, casting is not required but you would have to have fishing weights to be able to get your bait to the bottom. If you’re fishing in shallower waters, you may find that lighter spinning tackle allows for a more natural presentation, especially for groupers that’s a little bit skittish in such environment. You may also want to choose the much durable braided line option as you may need it for the aforementioned battle you’re going to have while you try to reel in that tough fish.</li><li><strong>Bait</strong> – as with other fishing targets, live baits are the best choice. Pin fish, sardines, scads, cigar minnows, spots, croakers, grunts, threadfins are just some of the best options for Scam Grouper fishing.</li><li><strong>Location</strong> – finding the right location is key to catching this tasty fish. Check out coastal waters, reefs, shoals, jetties, breakwaters, mangroves, docks, piers, and wrecks as these are where Scamp Groupers are typically caught.</li></ol>
Pensacola