Hey there, anglers! Ready to get your hands on some serious fish? Captain Robbie Bishop here, inviting you to join me for a day of bottom fishing that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. We're talking about hauling in monsters like Red Snapper, Black Grouper, and more, right here in Jacksonville's rich Atlantic waters. Whether you're looking for a quick 4-hour trip or want to make a full day of it with an 8-hour charter, I've got you covered. Let's get out there and show those fish who's boss!
Picture this: You're out on the open water, the Jacksonville skyline fading behind you as we head to my secret fishing spots. We're not messing around with any of that inshore stuff - we're going where the big boys play. I'm talking about reefs and wrecks that are teeming with fish just waiting to give your arms a workout. You'll be dropping lines for prized catches like Snapper, Grouper, Black Sea Bass, and Sheepshead. And the best part? I've got all the gear you need, so you can just show up ready to fish. No need to worry about licenses either - I've got that covered too. It's all about getting you on the fish and having a blast doing it.
Alright, let's talk tactics. We're not just throwing lines out willy-nilly here. Bottom fishing is an art, and I've got it down to a science. We'll be using heavy-duty rods and reels, paired with strong line to handle those big boys lurking near the seafloor. I'll show you how to bait up with squid, cut bait, or live bait - whatever's working best that day. We'll drift over productive spots, or if the bite is on, we might anchor up and really work an area. It's all about reading the water, feeling the bite, and knowing when to set the hook. Don't worry if you're new to this - I'll walk you through every step. Before you know it, you'll be reeling in fish like a pro and maybe even giving me a run for my money!
Let's talk about what's swimming down there, waiting for your bait. First up, we've got Sheepshead. These striped bandits are crafty little devils, known for their ability to steal bait without getting hooked. But when you do hook one, it's game on! They put up a great fight and taste even better on the dinner table. Best time to target them is late fall through early spring when they're congregating around structures.
Next, there's the Red Snapper. These guys are the rock stars of bottom fishing. With their bright red color and tasty white meat, they're always a crowd-pleaser. They can grow up to 40 pounds, so when you hook a big one, hold on tight! The season for Red Snapper is short but sweet, usually in the summer months, so timing is everything.
Black Grouper are another prize catch. These brutes can top 100 pounds and will test your strength and your tackle. They love to hang around rocky bottoms and reefs, and once hooked, they'll dive for cover, so you've got to be quick on the reel. We catch them year-round, but fall and winter can be especially productive.
Last but not least, we've got Black Sea Bass. Don't let their smaller size fool you - these fish are a blast to catch and absolutely delicious. They school up, so when you find them, it's often non-stop action. You can catch them pretty much all year, but they tend to move to deeper waters in the winter.
Look, I could go on all day about the fish, but what really makes these trips special is the experience. There's nothing like feeling that first big hit on your line, the rush of adrenaline as you start reeling, and the satisfaction of seeing a monster fish break the surface. And let's not forget the bragging rights - wait till you see the looks on your buddies' faces when you show them pictures of your catch! Plus, you're out here on the beautiful Atlantic, soaking up the sun, breathing in that salty air. It's a chance to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with what really matters. Whether you're out with family, friends, or just looking to meet some fellow fishing enthusiasts, these trips are about making memories that'll last a lifetime.
Alright, folks, here's the deal. Whether you're a seasoned angler or someone who's never held a rod before, I promise you're in for a treat. We've got trips ranging from 4 to 8 hours, so you can choose what fits your schedule. All the gear's provided, the license is covered, and I'll be there every step of the way to make sure you have a killer time. Just remember, the deposits are non-refundable, so when you book, be ready to commit to an awesome day on the water. Don't let those big fish get away - give Fishbuster Charters a call and let's set a date to get you out here. Trust me, once you feel that first big hit, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the boat!
Black grouper are ambush predators that put up one heck of a fight. You'll find them near reefs and wrecks in 60-250 feet of water. They average 20-30 pounds but can top 100. Fall and winter are prime seasons as they move shallower to spawn. When you hook one, get ready for a battle - they'll try to dive back into the rocks. I like using live bait like pinfish or blue runners on heavy tackle. Let it swim near the bottom, then hold on tight. Their meat is top-notch for grilling or blackening. Just be careful when you bring them in the boat - those powerful jaws can do some damage. Landing a big black grouper is always a thrill, and you'll have some great fish stories to tell.
Black sea bass are fun to catch and great eating. You'll find them around structure like wrecks and reefs in 60-120 feet of water. Most run 1-4 pounds, but they can get up to 8. Late spring through summer is prime time as they move inshore. They put up a good scrap on light tackle. I like using cut squid or small jigs tipped with clam. Drop your bait right to the bottom, then slowly work it up. Once you find a school, the action can be fast. Just watch out for their sharp dorsal spines when unhooking them. The meat is white and flaky - perfect for fish tacos. It's always a good day when the sea bass are biting!
Red snapper are prized catches, with their bright red color and delicious white meat. You'll find them in deeper waters, usually 100-300 feet down near reefs and wrecks. Most run 5-10 pounds, but they can get over 30. Late spring through fall is the best time to target them. When you hook one, be ready for a fight - they'll try to dive back to structure. I like to use heavy tackle with live bait like cigar minnows or pinfish. Dropping your bait all the way to the bottom is key. Once you find a school, the action can be non-stop. Just be sure to check regulations, as seasons are strictly managed. There's nothing quite like pulling up a big red snapper - the color is stunning, and they make for some of the best eating around.
Sheepshead are tough fighters with a unique look - those human-like teeth are something else! You'll find these striped "convict fish" around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs. They typically run 1-8 pounds but can get up to 20. Spring is prime time as they gather to spawn. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, so set the hook fast when you feel that nibble. I like to use fiddler crabs or shrimp on a small hook. Get as close to the pilings as you can - that's where they're munching on barnacles. The meat is sweet and delicious, but cleaning them can be tricky with those tough scales. Still, it's worth the effort for a tasty dinner. Just watch out for those sharp dorsal spines when you're handling them!
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