5.0(3 Reviews)Patch Reef & Wreck Light-Tackle Action
5.0(3 reviews)
Private Trip
Wrecks/Reefs Fishing
Half-day morning trips target snapper, grouper, and tarponCaptain Andrew provides top-quality gear for all skill levelsFish productive patch reefs and Everglades National Park waters
Captain Andrew Atwill knows these Key Largo waters like the back of his hand, and when you step aboard his charter, you're getting access to some of the most productive fishing grounds in South Florida. This half-day morning trip takes you to the patch reefs and wrecks where the fish stack up thick, giving you shots at everything from aggressive barracuda to trophy tarpon. With top-quality light tackle gear provided and a captain who's obsessed with putting fish in the boat, you'll spend more time fighting fish than searching for them. The morning bite is prime time here, and Captain Andrew's local knowledge means you'll be fishing the spots that produce consistently, not just the obvious ones everyone else hits.
Your morning starts early when the fish are most active and the waters are calm. Captain Andrew runs a clean, well-equipped boat that handles four anglers comfortably, giving everyone plenty of room to work. You'll cruise out to his proven patch reef spots or explore the productive waters of Everglades National Park, depending on conditions and what's biting best. The beauty of fishing with a local captain is the flexibility – if the snapper are slow on the reef, he'll pivot to grass flats for snook and redfish, or hit structure for grouper and jacks. Light tackle is the name of the game here, which means every fish fights like it's twice its size. You'll feel every head shake and run on these rods, making even smaller fish a blast to catch. The scenery doesn't hurt either – crystal clear waters, mangrove shorelines, and the kind of views that make you remember why you love being on the water.
Captain Andrew specializes in light tackle fishing, which means using lighter rods and reels that make the fight more sporting and the experience more engaging. You'll be working with spinning tackle loaded with 10-15 pound test, perfect for the mix of species these waters hold. Live bait is king out here – pilchards, pinfish, and shrimp account for most of the action, though artificial lures definitely have their place when fish are aggressive. Around the patch reefs, you'll drop baits to the bottom for snapper and grouper, while also keeping an eye on the surface for cruising tarpon or schools of jacks. The wreck fishing involves working structure with both live and cut bait, letting the current carry your offering to where the big fish hang out. Captain Andrew provides all the gear and bait, plus he'll rig everything and coach you through the techniques. Whether you're a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time, he'll adjust the approach to match your skill level and interests.
"Andrew worked his tail off to keep bait on hooks and lines in the water. He offers a number of areas to fish and gives you options to maximize fishing for the day. I booked a 4 hour trip with my wife and 3 kids. Andrew was great with the kids and was always willing to answer questions." - Brian
"Captain Andrew and Rob did a fantastic job getting us on fish despite a windy day. We loved it so much we rebooked for tomorrow at the dock when we arrived back! Going to the Reef tomorrow and cant wait !" - Paula
"Captain Andrew is great. Lots of fish and lots of fun!" - Brian Gale
Redfish are one of the most sought-after species in these waters, and for good reason. These copper-colored bruisers average 20-30 inches and fight like freight trains, making long runs and using their broad sides to pull drag. Fall through spring offers the best redfish action, when they school up in shallow water and along mangrove edges. What makes reds special is their willingness to eat both live bait and artificials, plus that distinctive spot near their tail that makes them instantly recognizable.
Crevalle Jack might not win beauty contests, but they'll absolutely wear you out on light tackle. These silver torpedoes travel in schools and when you find them, the action can be non-stop. Jacks average 10-20 pounds in these waters and fight way above their weight class, making blistering runs and refusing to give up easily. They're year-round residents, but spring and summer bring the biggest schools through the area.
Snook are the ultimate inshore gamefish, combining great looks with an attitude to match. These silver-sided predators with their distinctive black lateral line can reach 30+ inches and provide heart-stopping strikes followed by acrobatic fights. They're structure-oriented fish that love mangroves, docks, and bridges, making them perfect targets for this type of fishing. Peak season runs from spring through fall, and catching a slot-sized snook is always a highlight of any trip.
Grey Snapper, or mangrove snapper as locals call them, are abundant around the patch reefs and wrecks. While they might only average 12-16 inches, don't let their size fool you – these fish are incredibly smart and can be finicky eaters. When you do hook up, they make strong runs toward structure, trying to cut you off in the coral or wreckage. They're excellent eating and available year-round, making them a reliable target when other species are being difficult.
Tarpon are the silver kings of these waters, and even juvenile tarpon in the 20-40 pound range will test your skills and equipment. These prehistoric fish are famous for their gill-rattling jumps and never-give-up attitude. While the giant tarpon migrate through in spring and early summer, resident fish provide action throughout much of the year. Hooking a tarpon on light tackle is an experience you'll never forget – they'll jump, run, and fight until they're completely exhausted.
Sea Trout, particularly speckled trout, are grass flat
Your fishing platform for this Key Largo wreck adventure is a 2018 Pathfinder 24-footer powered by a robust 300hp Yamaha that'll get you out to those productive patch reefs and wreck sites in no time. This sleek center console hits 52 knots when conditions are right, cutting through Florida Bay waters with ease. The spacious deck comfortably handles up to 4 anglers, giving everyone plenty of room to work their lines without tangling. Built-in GPS keeps you on top of the hottest fishing spots, while the radar system ensures safe navigation even when morning fog rolls in. The fish finder is your secret weapon for locating those structure-holding grouper and snapper around the wrecks. Captain Andrew's got this boat dialed in perfectly for light-tackle action – whether you're battling tarpon in the backcountry or dropping baits on offshore structure, this Pathfinder delivers the performance and fishability that makes the difference between a good day and a great day on the water.
Caranx HipposJack Crevalle are the ocean bullies that'll test your drag system. These brassy, powerful fish typically run 12-24 inches and 3-5 pounds, but the bigger ones can hit 40+ pounds and really make you work. They travel in aggressive schools, often pushing baitfish to the surface where birds give away their location. You'll find them around patch reefs, wrecks, and anywhere there's structure holding bait. They hit fast-moving lures hard - silver spoons, swimbaits, and topwater plugs work great. Spring through fall is prime time when they're most active. What guests love is the pure fight - they'll make screaming runs and never give up easy. The meat's okay but most folks release them for the sport. Here's the key: when you see birds working, get there fast and cast past the school, then retrieve aggressively - they can't resist the chase.
Sphyraena BarracudaBarracuda are the silver torpedoes of the reef, built for speed and aggression. These toothy predators typically run 2-4 feet but can hit 6 feet and 50+ pounds. They patrol patch reefs, wrecks, and clear water edges where they can ambush prey with lightning-fast strikes. Year-round fishing is good here, but spring and summer bring the biggest fish shallow. What makes them exciting is their explosive hits and blistering runs - they'll hit 35 mph in short bursts. Most folks release them since the meat can cause ciguatera, but the fight is worth the trip. They're curious fish that'll often follow lures, so don't be surprised to see one tracking your bait. Shiny spoons, tube lures, and live bait work great. Key tip: use a wire leader - those razor teeth will cut through mono instantly. When one follows your lure without hitting, speed up your retrieve and change direction suddenly - that erratic action triggers their predator instinct.
Lutjanus GriseusGrey Snapper, or Mangrove Snapper as locals call them, are some of the smartest fish we target. These copper-colored fish typically run 12-16 inches inshore, though bigger ones lurk in deeper water. They love structure - docks, mangroves, patch reefs, and wrecks where they can ambush prey. Being opportunistic feeders, they're most active during low-light periods and at night. What makes them popular is their excellent eating quality - firm, white, flaky meat that's hard to beat. They're also great for beginners since they're abundant and willing biters when conditions are right. The challenge is they're very bait-shy and have excellent eyesight. Live shrimp hooked through the tail works best, but keep your leaders light and movements minimal. Here's the trick: once your bait hits bottom, reel up just a foot or two to keep it off the structure, then be patient - they'll inspect it thoroughly before committing to bite.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are one of our most reliable inshore targets, typically running 20-30 inches and putting up a solid fight on light tackle. You'll find them cruising the shallow flats and grass beds in 1-4 feet of water, often with their backs showing above the surface. They're identifiable by that distinctive black spot near the tail and copper-red coloring. Spring through fall offers the best action, especially on incoming tides when they push into the shallows to feed. What makes them special is their willingness to eat just about anything - live shrimp, topwater plugs, or soft plastics all work great. The meat is excellent eating with a mild, sweet flavor. Pro tip: when you spot one tailing in shallow water, cast well ahead of where it's moving and let your bait settle to the bottom - they feed with their heads down and will cruise right over it.
Salmo TruttaSpeckled Trout are perfect light-tackle fish that'll keep you busy all morning. These spotted beauties typically run 14-18 inches and have that distinctive speckled pattern along their silver sides. They love grass flats and shallow bays, especially around drop-offs where they can ambush shrimp and small baitfish. Dawn and dusk are prime time, though they'll bite throughout the day in cooler months. What guests appreciate is their willingness to hit artificials - soft plastics, topwater plugs, and spoons all work great. The meat is excellent but delicate, so don't overcook it. They're also great for fly fishing when you find them tailing in shallow water. Spring through fall offers the best action, with winter bringing bigger fish to deeper holes. Pro tip: work your lures slowly and keep them near the bottom - trout are lazy feeders that prefer an easy meal, and a slow-rolling soft plastic mimics a wounded shrimp perfectly.
Centropomus UndecimalisSnook are Florida's signature inshore gamefish, and for good reason. These sleek predators average 18-28 inches with that unmistakable black lateral stripe running down their silver sides. They're structure-oriented fish, hanging around mangroves, docks, bridges, and creek mouths where they ambush prey. Water temperature is critical - they need it above 68 degrees, making spring through fall peak season here in the Keys. What makes them special is their explosive strikes and acrobatic fights, plus they're excellent table fare with firm, white meat. They change from male to female as they grow, so those bigger fish are usually females. Live shrimp, pilchards, and topwater plugs are go-to baits. Pro tip: when fishing around structure, make your first cast count - snook are easily spooked and you usually only get one good shot at them before they shut down.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish Mackerel are speed demons that provide non-stop action on light tackle. These sleek fish average 1-2 feet and pack incredible fight for their size, often making multiple runs before giving up. Look for them in schools around patch reefs, wrecks, and anywhere baitfish gather - diving birds are your best indicator. They're here year-round but peak action happens spring through fall when water temperatures warm up. What makes them popular is their aggressive nature and excellent table fare - the meat is mild, flaky, and perfect for grilling or smoking. They'll hit fast-moving lures like spoons, small jigs, and even flies. Being one of the fastest fish in the ocean, they require quick reflexes when they hit. The meat is rich in omega-3s and makes outstanding sushi. Pro tip: when you hook into a school, keep multiple rods ready - they travel in large groups and you can often catch several before they move on. Small, shiny lures retrieved fast work best.
Megalops AtlanticusTarpon are the ultimate bucket-list fish - the "Silver King" that can reach 6+ feet and 200 pounds. These prehistoric giants migrate through our waters spring through fall, with peak season May to July. You'll find them rolling in channels, around bridges, and over the flats where they come up to gulp air. What makes them legendary is their acrobatics - they'll jump 10 feet out of the water and make runs that'll strip line off your reel. Most anglers practice catch and release since the meat isn't great, but landing one is a lifetime achievement. They're surprisingly catchable on medium tackle - live crabs, pinfish, or mullet work well. The key is patience and proper technique. Here's what separates success from failure: when they jump, bow to the fish by dropping your rod tip toward them - it keeps tension off the line and prevents them from throwing the hook on those spectacular leaps.
5.0 out of 5.0Andrew worked his tail off to keep bait on hooks and lines in the water. He offers a number of areas to fish and gives you options...
Captain Andrew and Rob did a fantastic job getting us on fish despite a windy day. We loved it so much we rebooked for tomorrow a...
Captain Andrew is great. Lots of fish and lots of fun!
Key Largo, FL