Florida Keys Island Fishing with Captain Tony

REEF FISHING

Reef Fishing

Discover the World-Class Reefs of the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are home to some of the most vibrant and productive reef systems in the world. Just a few miles offshore, the Atlantic side of the island chain offers an incredible variety of reef fishing experiences—perfect for anglers of all skill levels. From shallow patch reefs to deep reef edges and historic wrecks, there’s always something biting out here.

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Patch Reef Fishing

Family-Friendly Fishing in Crystal Clear Waters

The patch reefs stretch from Key Largo to Key West, sitting about 5 miles offshore in the shallow, turquoise waters of the Atlantic. These reefs are clusters of coral and sandy bottom found in depths of 10 to 25 feet, and they serve as breeding grounds for many species of fish.

Running alongside the patch reefs is Hawk’s Channel, a navigational route marked by offshore lighthouses—many of which are visible from U.S. Highway 1.

Patch reef fishing is ideal for families, especially with children. The waters are typically calm, and the fish are often visible right behind the boat as you chum the water and drop your bait. Expect to catch:

• Trophy Grouper
• Mutton Snapper
• Yellowtail Snapper
• Spanish Mackerel
• King Mackerel
• Jacks and more!

You might even be treated to sightings of sea turtles or dolphins, adding to the excitement of your day on the water.

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Reef Fishing

Where the Fish Are Always on the Hunt

Further offshore lies the main reef system, running the full length of the Florida Keys. As you travel past the patch reefs, the bottom drops from 25 to 90 feet, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem along what’s known as the Reef’s Edge.

The reef is a hotspot for predators—a true underwater buffet where fish move in to feed when the current is running. On calmer days, we head to the reef to target some of the Keys’ most prized species, including:

• Mutton Snapper
• Yellowtail Snapper
• Cero and King Mackerel
• Grouper
• Cobia
• Barracuda
• Mahi-Mahi and Sailfish (in season)
• Wahoo

With so much life moving through the reef, it’s not uncommon to hook into something big and unexpected. This is a dynamic, weather-dependent fishery, and one of our favorite spots to fish when conditions allow.

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Wreck Fishing

Target the Giants Around Hidden Underwater Structures

Scattered throughout the waters off the Florida Keys are sunken wrecks—both natural and man-made structures that have become thriving fish habitats. These wrecks provide shelter and ambush points for some of the largest predators in the area.

We fish these wrecks by drifting baits, chumming, or using slow-pitch jigs, which can be especially effective. If you can get your fish past the ever-present sharks, the reward can be impressive.

Wrecks often hold:

• Mutton Snapper
• African Pompano
• Grouper
• Amberjack
• Barracuda
• Sharks

Wreck fishing adds an exciting layer to your reef adventure and increases your chances of landing a trophy catch.

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From the shallow patch reefs to the deep reef’s edge and sunken wrecks, the Florida Keys reef system is truly one of the greatest fishing playgrounds in the world. Let’s get you out there to see what’s biting!

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🎣 SEASONAL REEF SPECIES

What’s Biting? Here’s What You Can Expect Throughout the Year:

🌸 SPRING (March – May)

• Mutton Snapper (spawning season = great action!)
• Yellowtail Snapper
• Cero Mackerel
• Barracuda
• Permit
• Early Tarpon along the reef & bridges

☀️ SUMMER (June – August)

• Mangrove Snapper (especially around the reefs and wrecks)
• Mahi-Mahi (near the reef’s edge and offshore)
• Black Grouper
• Amberjack
• Sharks (very active in warm water!)

🍂 FALL (September – November)

• Mutton Snapper
• King Mackerel (begin showing up late fall)
• Grouper (great time for patch reefs and wrecks)
• Cobia (passing through wreck areas)

❄️ WINTER (December – February)

• King Mackerel (peak season!)
• Yellowtail Snapper
• Grouper (until season closes Jan 1 in Atlantic waters)
• Porgy, Hogfish, and other reef regulars
• Sailfish (on the move offshore but close to the reef’s edge)

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💡 Tip from Captain Tony:
“No matter the time of year, there’s always something biting in the Keys. The key is to fish the right structure, tides, and depth—and that’s exactly what I’m here for!”

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Call Captain Tony at 305-900-7928 to schedule your charter today!