Offshore Gulf Spearfishing in Federal Waters
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Offshore spearfishing in federal waters beyond 9 miles from shoreTarget reef and pelagic species in deeper Gulf watersSmall group trips limited to 3 experienced certified divers
Looking to take your spearfishing game to the next level? This offshore Gulf spearfishing trip with Taz's Excursions puts you right where the big fish live – federal waters beyond the 9-mile mark off Shalimar, Florida. We're talking about the deep blue Gulf Coast waters where reef fish stack up on structure and pelagics cruise through looking for their next meal. This isn't your typical nearshore dive; it's designed for certified spear fishers who know their way around deeper water and are ready to hunt some serious fish.
We keep groups small – just three spear fishers max – so you'll get plenty of bottom time and personal attention from your guide. The Florida Panhandle's federal waters offer some of the most productive spearfishing in the Gulf, with artificial reefs, natural ledges, and drop-offs that hold quality fish year-round. Expect a longer boat ride than your typical nearshore trips, but once we hit those GPS numbers, you'll understand why the extra run is worth it. Water clarity is typically excellent beyond the 9-mile line, giving you the visibility you need to spot and stalk your targets. The bottom structure varies from rocky ledges to artificial reef sites, each holding different species depending on the season and conditions.
You'll need to bring your own spearfishing gear – polespear or speargun, mask, fins, snorkel, and wetsuit if the water's cool. Most shots out here are in the 60-80 foot range, so make sure your gear is dialed in for those depths. We'll brief you on the specific sites we're hitting based on current conditions, fish movement, and what's been producing lately. Safety is huge on these federal water trips – we'll go over dive protocols, buddy systems, and emergency procedures before anyone gets wet. The current can pick up out here, so proper finning technique and situational awareness are critical. Your guide knows these reefs like the back of their hand and will position the boat for optimal drift dives when conditions allow.
Grey Triggerfish are the bread and butter of offshore spearfishing in this area. These chunky, hard-fighting fish love structure and aren't shy about investigating divers. They typically run 3-8 pounds out here, with the occasional trophy pushing double digits. Triggers are curious but spooky, so approach slowly and be ready for a quick shot when they present a good angle. Best hunting is usually mid-morning through early afternoon when they're actively feeding around the reef structure.
Crevalle Jack bring the excitement factor to every dive. These silver torpedoes patrol the edges of reefs and can show up in schools or as lone wolves. Jacks in federal waters often run 15-30 pounds, and they'll test every piece of gear you've got. They're most active during dawn and dusk periods, but can be found cruising the water column throughout the day. When you see that distinctive silver flash and deeply forked tail, get ready for a ride.
Cobia are the unicorns of Gulf spearfishing – when you see one, everything else becomes secondary. These brown sharks (as some folks call them) cruise solo or in small groups, often following rays or other bottom dwellers. Federal water cobia typically range from 30-60 pounds, with fish over 50 being legitimate trophies. Spring through fall offers the best cobia opportunities, especially around floating debris or structure. Their curious nature can work in your favor, but they're also incredibly intelligent and won't give you many chances.
Red Snapper remain the holy grail for many Gulf spear fishers. These ruby-red beauties stack up on ledges and artificial structure throughout federal waters. Size varies widely, from schoolie-sized fish up to legitimate wall-hangers pushing 20+ pounds. Snapper are extremely structure-oriented and can be line-shy, making spearfishing an ideal way to target them. Peak season typically runs late spring through early fall, with larger fish often holding in deeper water during summer months.
Southern Flounder add variety to your catch and table fare. These flatfish blend perfectly with sandy bottoms adjacent to reef structure, making them challenging but rewarding targets. Gulf flounder in federal waters often exceed the size of their inshore cousins, with fish in the 3-6 pound range being common. Look for them on sand patches between reefs or along the edges of structure where small baitfish congregate. Their camouflage is incredible, so train your eye to spot that telltale outline and the position of their eyes.
Federal water spearfishing trips don't happen every day – weather, sea conditions, and seasonal fish movement all play a role in when we can get out there safely and productively. With only three spots available per trip, these dates fill up fast, especially during prime season. Whether you're looking to add some variety to your fishing portfolio or chase that personal best, this offshore spearfishing experience puts you in prime Gulf Coast waters where memories and fish stories are made. Ready to see what's living on those deep reefs? Let's make it happen.
This 30ft ProKat Catamaran cuts through Gulf waters at 49 knots, powered by twin 250HP Yamaha engines that'll get you to those deep federal fishing grounds fast. The 2003 cat's stable platform makes spearfishing in offshore swells much easier - you won't be fighting boat roll when you're gearing up or climbing back aboard with your catch. GPS keeps you locked on productive reef spots while VHF radio maintains contact with other boats and shore. Twin hulls provide serious stability for safe entry and exit during dives, plus smooth rides back to Shalimar with your cooler full. Seats 6 comfortably, so there's plenty of room for gear, dive equipment, and moving around the deck between dives.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the brown sharks that aren't sharks - their single dorsal fin and dark brown coloring fools a lot of people at first glance. These solitary fish average around 30-50 pounds but can push 100+ pounds and 6 feet long. You'll find them cruising reefs, wrecks, and structure in 30-300 feet of water, often solo or in small groups. Spring through fall is prime time when they migrate through our waters, especially during spawning season. What makes them special is the fight and the table fare - firm, white meat that rivals the best fish you'll eat. They're curious fish that will investigate divers, giving you good shot opportunities. Key trick: look for them around floating debris or following rays on the bottom. When you spot one, move slow and steady - they spook easy but if you're patient, they'll give you a perfect broadside shot.
Caranx HipposCrevalle jacks are the bulldogs of the Gulf, typically running 12-24 inches and 3-5 pounds, though the big ones can hit 60+ pounds. These brassy-gold fighters roam both shallow flats and deeper offshore waters, often around structure like rigs and reefs. You'll find them year-round in our Gulf waters, but spring and summer are prime when they're feeding heavy on baitfish. What guests love is their aggressive nature and bulldogging fight - they'll test your gear and your arms. Unlike many schooling fish, jacks will actually approach divers out of curiosity, making them great spearfishing targets. The meat is decent but most folks target them for the sport. Watch for diving birds working the surface - that's usually jacks pushing bait up from below where you can get a clean shot.
Balistes CapriscusGrey triggerfish are one of the more challenging targets out there, averaging 12-17 inches but capable of hitting 24 inches and 13 pounds. These guys hang around hard bottom, ledges, and reef structures in 30-180 feet of water. What makes them tricky is their leather-tough skin and those sharp, beak-like mouths - they'll nip at your spear before committing. They're territorial and will retreat into crevices when threatened, locking themselves in with their dorsal spines. The meat is excellent eating with a firm, white texture that's worth the effort. Spring through fall gives you the best shot at them when they're most active around the reefs. Pro tip: when you see one, be patient and wait for a clean broadside shot - their tough hide means shot placement is everything.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the king of Gulf bottom fish, running 15-25 inches on average but capable of hitting 35+ pounds. These bright red beauties live on hard bottom, reefs, and structure in 30-200+ feet of water. During our federal season (usually summer months), they're aggressive and curious around divers. What guests love most is the fight and the incredible table fare - mild, sweet, white meat that's restaurant quality. They're smart fish that will use structure to break you off, so shot placement matters. You'll typically find them in schools around good bottom, making for exciting dives when you hit the right spot. The bigger fish tend to hold deeper and are more solitary. Here's a local tip: look for the bigger snapper on the edges of schools, not in the thick of them where the smaller fish cluster.
Paralichthys LethostigmaSouthern flounder might seem like an odd target for offshore spearfishing, but the big ones move to deeper waters in winter and can surprise you on structure dives. These flat, oval-shaped fish typically run 15-18 inches but can reach 33 inches and 20+ pounds. Both eyes sit on their left side, and they're masters of camouflage on sandy or muddy bottoms around reefs and wrecks. Winter months are when the larger adults move offshore, making them available in federal waters. What's unique is the challenge of spotting them - they blend perfectly with the bottom until they move. The meat is excellent, white and flaky with a mild flavor that's hard to beat. They ambush prey from the bottom, so they'll often be partially buried in sand near structure. Pro tip: look for the outline or eye shine rather than the whole fish - once you train your eye, you'll start seeing them everywhere.
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