Private 10 Hour Offshore Fishing Trip In Placida
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
10-hour offshore fishing adventure up to 50 miles outExpert crew guides groups of 6 to prime fishing spotsAll skill levels welcome for deep sea catches
Looking for a serious offshore fishing adventure? Our 10-hour charter out of Placida takes you up to 50 miles into some of Florida's most productive deep water. This isn't your typical half-day trip – we're talking about a full day on the water where you'll have time to hit multiple spots and really dial in on the fish. With room for up to 6 anglers, it's perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone ready to test their skills against some of the Gulf's top gamefish. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand and will put you on fish whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who's never held a rod.
When you step aboard in Placida, you're getting access to some of the most pristine fishing grounds on Florida's west coast. We'll cruise out to depths ranging from 80 to 200+ feet, targeting structure, ledges, and artificial reefs that hold serious fish. The 10-hour format gives us flexibility most shorter trips can't offer – if one spot isn't producing, we've got time to move around and find where they're biting. You'll be fishing in crystal clear blue water that's typically calmer than what you'd find further north, making it comfortable even for those who get a little seasick closer to shore. Our experienced captain reads the conditions daily and adjusts the game plan accordingly, whether that means working the nearshore wrecks or pushing out to the deeper drops where the big boys hang out.
We run a variety of techniques depending on what's happening that day. Bottom fishing with heavy tackle is our bread and butter – we're talking 6/0 to 8/0 conventional reels spooled with 50-80 pound braid, paired with rods that can handle fish in the 20-50 pound range. Live bait is king out here, and we'll have a good selection of pinfish, grunts, and sardines in the wells. When the bite gets tough, we'll switch to cut bait or even try some vertical jigging with heavy spoons and bucktails. The crew handles all the rigging, so you don't need to worry about tying complicated bottom rigs or figuring out the right sinker weight for the current. All tackle and bait is included, but feel free to bring your own gear if you've got a favorite setup. We've got a good fish box with plenty of ice, so everything you keep will go home in prime condition.
Cobia are absolute warriors and one of the most sought-after species we target. These brown sharks, as some folks call them, typically run 20-50 pounds and are known for their bulldogging fights. Best time to find them is late spring through early fall when they're cruising the surface near buoys and structure. What makes cobia so exciting is you often see them before you hook them – they'll come right up to the boat out of curiosity, giving you a shot at a sight cast. Plus, they're excellent eating with firm, white meat that tastes similar to mahi.
Red snapper remain the holy grail of Gulf fishing, and for good reason. These crimson beauties are smart, strong, and absolutely delicious. Most of our reds range from 16-25 pounds, though we see some real slobs pushing 30+ pounds on the deeper wrecks. They're structure-oriented fish that live around rocky bottom, artificial reefs, and shipwrecks. The key is getting your bait down fast before the smaller fish pick it apart. When a big red hits, you'll know it – they make a strong initial run then dig toward the bottom like their life depends on it.
Black grouper are the kings of the reef, and landing one is always a battle. These fish can weigh anywhere from 10 to 50+ pounds and have the attitude to match their size. They live in caves and ledges, using their powerful jaws and brute strength to try and cut you off in the rocks. The fight is typically short but intense – it's all about keeping them out of the structure on that first run. Black grouper are also incredibly good eating, with thick fillets and a mild flavor that makes them a favorite at the fish fry.
Black sea bass might be smaller than the other species we target, but they make up for it in numbers and taste. These guys typically run 1-3 pounds and are perfect for filling the cooler when the bigger fish aren't cooperating. They school up around structure and are aggressive biters, making them great for kids and beginners. Don't let their size fool you – they're scrappy little fighters and arguably the best eating fish in the Gulf.
Goliath grouper are the giants of our waters, and while they're catch-and-release only, hooking into one is an experience you'll never forget. These prehistoric-looking fish can exceed 200 pounds and live in caves and under ledges. When a goliath eats your bait, it's like being hooked to a submarine – they use their massive size and the structure to their advantage. Getting one to the surface for a photo is a team effort and a real accomplishment. Most anglers are shaking with adrenaline after battling one of these monsters.
This 10-hour offshore adventure gives you the best shot at experiencing everything the Gulf has to offer. With no meals included, you're free to bring whatever snacks and drinks you prefer for the day – just remember to pack plenty of water and sun protection. The extended time on the water means we can adapt to conditions and really focus on putting you on fish. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with dinner or just want to test your skills against some serious gamefish, this trip delivers. Space fills up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait around if you're serious about getting offshore. Book your spot today and get ready
Your offshore fishing adventure runs on a brand-new 2024 Conch 25-footer that's built to handle the Gulf waters like a champ. This center console beauty packs a 350HP Mercury engine that'll cruise at 50 knots, getting you to those deep-water honey holes fast so you can maximize your fishing time. The boat's loaded with everything serious anglers need - fish finder to mark the bottom structure, GPS to hit those productive spots, and radar for when visibility drops. Keep your catch fresh in the icebox while the wireless trolling motor lets you work the water quietly without spooking the fish. Between fishing sessions, kick back with the multimedia system. With space for up to 6 anglers, there's plenty of room to fight those big fish without bumping elbows. This boat's designed for comfort during those long offshore days, giving you a stable platform whether you're bottom fishing or working the surface for pelagics.
Mycteroperca BonaciBlack grouper are the bullies of the reef, and they'll test every piece of gear you've got. These bruisers average 10-30 pounds but can push 50+ pounds when you find the big boys on deeper structure. They hang around wrecks, ledges, and rocky bottom in 60-300 feet, with the monsters usually deeper. Best fishing happens during cooler months when they move up from the depths to feed. What makes them special is that bone-jarring initial run - they'll try to get back to the rocks and break you off immediately. They're also excellent eating with firm, mild white meat. The meat alone makes the fight worth it. My advice: use heavy tackle with at least 50-pound braid and crank hard the second you hook up. Don't give them an inch or they'll wrap you around the nearest piece of structure and say goodbye.
Centropristis StriataBlack sea bass might be smaller than their grouper cousins, but they're scrappy fighters that make up for it with numbers. Most run 1-4 pounds, though we occasionally see some nice 6-8 pounders on the deeper structure. They love hanging around wrecks, jetties, and rocky bottom in 40-120 feet of water. Late spring through summer is prime time when they're up shallow and feeding hard. What guests enjoy is the steady action - you can often catch multiple fish on the same structure. They're also great table fare with sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for dinner. These fish have an interesting trait - they start as females and change to males as they grow. Pro tip: use a double-drop rig with squid or cut bait, and bounce it right on the bottom. They're not shy about taking a bait, but keep your line tight.
Rachycentron CanadumThese dark brown fish often get mistaken for sharks when you first spot them cruising near the surface. Most cobia run 20-50 pounds, but we've seen some real bulls over 60 pounds on our offshore trips. They're usually solo hunters, which makes them trickier to find than schooling fish. We target them around wrecks, reefs, and structure in 30-150 feet during spring and summer months. What makes cobia special is their incredible fight - they'll make long powerful runs and put serious pressure on your gear. Plus, they're some of the best eating fish in these waters with firm, white meat that tastes amazing. Here's a local tip: when you see one, cast ahead of where it's swimming and let your jig sink naturally. They're curious and will usually come investigate if you don't spook them.
Epinephelus ItajaraGoliath grouper are the giants of our waters - true bucket list fish that can reach 300+ pounds and live over 50 years. These massive grouper hang around shallow reefs, wrecks, and structure in 20-80 feet, making them surprisingly accessible. Year-round fishing, but they're most active in warmer months. What makes them special is that they're completely protected - catch and release only - so it's all about the experience and photos. That first pull will test your back and your drag system like nothing else. They're curious fish that will often approach the boat, giving everyone a show. Keep in mind they're federally protected, so we use heavy tackle to get them up quick and healthy. My tip: use big live bait like jacks or rays, and make sure your drag is set right. These fish have no fear and will inhale anything that looks like a meal.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the crown jewel of bottom fishing around here. Most fish we catch run 2-5 pounds, but the big breeding females can push 15-20 pounds and make your arms burn. They live around hard bottom structure, wrecks, and ledges in 60-200 feet of water. Summer months are prime time when they're most active and feeding heavy. What guests love about snapper fishing is the steady action and that telltale head-shaking fight they put up on the way to the surface. They're also fantastic table fare - sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for any recipe. The key to landing more snapper is keeping your bait right on the bottom and setting the hook hard the second you feel that tap. Use circle hooks and fresh cut bait, and don't hesitate when you get a bite - they'll head straight back to the rocks.
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