for goliath grouper in Crystal River prices can range anywhere from $400 to $600, but the average price for a full day for goliath grouper in Crystal River is $500. In less than 20 feet of water, gag grouper can be found patrolling the inshore waters of Crystal River. Crystal River is home to a unique shallow-water grouper fishery that is home to an extremely healthy population of gag grouper. Inshore Half Day(4 Hours) 1-2 People, 20212023 Crystal River Sport Fishing. You've probably seen it on TV or you've seen it on YouTube: shallow water grouper fishing puts Crystal River on the map. A pinfish is a small, edible fish with a long, narrow body, a small head, and prominent pectoral fins. June is primarily dedicated to Gag Grouper, as it is one of our most popular species to target. The two most popular species of grouper and snapper in Crystal River are Gag Grouper and Mangrove Snapper. Redfish and Snook on fly + Grouper are lurking. All of the great guides here at Reel Florida Fishing Charters hope that 2022 was a prosperous year for everyone and we wish all of you the very best going into 2023. Covering the inshore and offshore waters of Floridas Big Bend. These grouper, Another awesome day chasing tailing Redfish along, Good times today with the family here in Crystal R, Talk about a fun day!!!! Happy New Year anglers!! We went scalloping (not fishing). Nick Warrington Sep 16, 2021 A look into the best grouper fishing in the state of Florida You've probably seen it on TV or you've seen it on YouTube: shallow water grouper fishing puts Crystal River on the map. The waters can be choppy on the boat ride to fishing site. This allows you to easily release the fish and improves the chance that it will live. It is relatively easy to identify grouper fish. Sport Fishing Slip I would have never ever caught any of these massive reds with out his expertise. Tons of redfish, trout, mackeral, and cobia invading the area. You can feel the shear stopping power of these fish when they hit the lure. The trout fishing has slowed down with warmer temperatures we have been fishing from 12-16 feet slow jigging mirrolure little johns in . Tip: arrive early as this restaurant gets very busy! We talked to a local angler who knows everything there is to know about catching these creatures in the waters of Crystal River. Be sure to have beefy tackle adequate enough to stop these very strong fish from getting you back to the rocks. | Sitemap, Website Design & Marketing by Hooked Marketing, Max: 4 Inshore & Grouper / Max: 6 Scalloping. There are several ways to catch a grouper fish from shore. Richard P. from PA. Our group had a blast with Capt. The best Grouper fishing found along Crystal River and Homosassa can be found along the shallow waters of our "Foul Area" also known as the Old Bombing Range. 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Don't be affraid to try something new, but at the same time don't totally give up what brought you success to begin with. In fact, it has a slightly sweet taste and it has a texture that is easy to work with, even if you overcook it. See what fish are biting now in Crystal River and find out where to catch them. . Summer time mangrove snapper fishing is always a target to keep the rods bent free lining live shrimp in 10-20 feet you can expect mangroves from 2-5lbs along with grunts, hogfish and the occasional grouper. Big spinning reels or conventional reels spooled up with a 60-80lbs braid paired with a 60-80lbs leader will give you the upper hand in putting these fish in the boat. Some species can grow quite large in fact, the largest recorded grouper fish was almost 700 pounds! The speckled sea trout bite has been great the red fish are moving out to the outer islands wanting to feed plenty of sheep pad and mangrove snapper on the rock piles. This will help you identify them when its time to go out on your fishing trip. INCREDIBLE!!! Looks though our reports or subscribe to our reports! Captain Jayce is the go-to gag grouper fishing charter captain in Crystal River, FL. For most people, moderate intake of mercury in fish is not a concern, but you do want to be aware of what youre putting in your body, especially if you eat grouper frequently. Thats the word that comes to mind as I try my best to describe the latest fishing action here along the Nature Coast. One of the notable considerations of eating grouper is its mercury grade. The mackerel bite was on ? They are intelligent and fast-moving, so catching them takes some skill. What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Crystal River, Florida for the first time. All rights reserved. The water is beautiful but it is hot out so come prepared for lots of heat and sun. What to expect on your upcoming charter? How shallow one may ask? We are the experienced fishing character that can help you catch grouper, along with many other types of fish. Great weather and great fishing. Come prepared for a strong swim. 352-601-1963 Crystal River, FL 34429. Learn all about the different snapper varieties here. As for the Redfishing here in Crystal River, it couldnt be any better. Though there are multiple species of grouper fish, they all have large, thick bodies and wide mouths. We got into the trout and found some to take home, then switched gears and went hunting for reds and they delivered! The Crystal River can be really shallow, so make sure you're out with an experienced captain. Thankfully the Nature Coast, which includes Crystal River and . Some anglers like to use lures or bait, while others prefer to simply wade into the water and cast their line out. If you ever wondered about one of the best grouper fishing opportunities in the state of Florida, wonder no more. Lost of options around the "millions" of islands and offshore rock piles.. Pete's Pier is a great place to launch from and Hampton Inn and Plantation On Crystal River are very close by. If youre thinking about heading out on the water to catch one, be sure to come along with Crystal River Sport Fishing! If you catch a few and then don't see any for a while, don't get discouraged. Pinfish are very good eating fish and are often caught using fishing lines and hooks. Fresh Fishing Reports from Crystal River. Blindly searching can lead to endless hours of hit or miss fishing before finding the sweet spot. Fish to 20 pounds are not unusual, and trust me, theres nothing like battling one of these bruisers on spinning tackle in shallow water. These same big-lipped diving plugs have been all the rage for about three years among anglers trolling for grouper off Florida's Coastal Bend in the Gulf of Mexico. Covering the inshore and offshore waters of Floridas Big Bend. Bring a hat and sunblock and a good attitude, there's gold here!!! The time we all look forward to has arrived once again: Grouper time! These grouper, Another awesome day chasing tailing Redfish along, Good times today with the family here in Crystal R, Talk about a fun day!!!! And good to eat. The grouper season here opens on 1 June. A fishing charter is a great way to enjoy a day out with friends or family while catching fish at the same time. Oops, there was an error sending your message. The main tried and true bait that gag grouper simply can't pass up is the trusty pinfish. The time we have all been looking forward to, cooler weather, has arrived here in Crystal River! Shallow Water Grouper Fishing For many people the idea of Gag Grouper and shallow water do not go hand in hand. One thing that makes our area special is the abilty to cast and troll for these fish. Grouper are famously known as Florida's most delicious fish species and of the seventeen different grouper species that are targeted throughout Florida the gag grouper is the most common variety found inhabiting the waters off the Nature Coast. Post Hurricane Ian Fishing Report. The weather this year has provided challenges and opportunities to change up our tactics and find fish in places where they maybe wouldnt have been in a normal" season. This is the time of year to start making plans and getting your spot locked in for this fishing opportunity. Inshore Half Day(4 Hours) 1-2 People, 20212023 Crystal River Sport Fishing. When to Catch Grouper in Crystal River One of the Florida Gulf Coast's greatest fishing experiences is found in Crystal River. They will take out a prop or lower unit in a heart beat. This is a popular spot with the locals with a great atmosphere. While most go fish wrecks and reefs for grouper, the bottom-scape of the Crystal River shallows contain many natural features that draw this species in. If you choose to go fishing for grouper in Crystal River on a charter boat, your captain can help you hook the grouper of a lifetime! Reel wise, a Daiwa BGMQ8000 can handle just about anything out there. Keep it up. . These fish are extreme tackle testers so you better be ready for the battle with some high quality gear and some beefed up tackle. More Info on Crystal River Grouper Fishing Charters, 2023 crystalriverguideservice.com All Rights Reserved | Page One Fishing. Sign me up as a fan Im often asked how we choose the guides that work with us here at Reel Florida Fishing Charters. Grouper fish come in a variety of colors and patterns, but most have large scales. Nice fishing! Back in early 60s the US Navy used our coastal waters to test dummy MK 82 bombs and Mk 76 smoke bombs. Its a very accessible place with plenty of different fish species, and its always an exciting time. We look forward to hearing from you. Grouper is a delicious fish. | Sitemap, Website Design & Marketing by Hooked Marketing, Max: 4 Inshore & Grouper / Max: 6 Scalloping. Sardines and threadfin herring are a good option if live bait isn't available. captnickwarrington@gmail.com. Trout bite is firing up. Pinfish are one of the most commercially important species in many areas of the world. Pete's charges $5.00 to park on their lot, but that is covered if you book through FishingBooker. Spring time is coming in Spanish mackerel are coming in. No v, Get my money's worth out of this one!!! Very knowedgable, very friendly and great fisherman. Crystal River, Florida Fishing Report October 2021 Nick Warrington Oct 26, 2021 Shallow water grouper fishing has been hot! Including Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River, Yankeetown, Waccasassa, and Cedar Key. Looking for an Orvi, Shout out to my boy Casey Males for knocking out s, Another great day of fly fishing with my main man, This gorgeous view will becoming up For Sale very, Great Day fly fishing the Backcountry of Crystal R, One of my top 10 guiding moments!! Consider the following advice on how to catch and hook the catch of a lifetime, right here in Crystal River, FL. We look forward to. There are many colors and patterns of grouper fish, but they are all characterized by large scales. Throwing lures is one of the most exhilarating ways to catch them. Gag grouper are an ambush predator that loves to hide inside of structure. With water temps in the 70's fishing in 10-30' of water has been very good and as it continues to cool off we only expect it to get better. John. Trolling Rapala Xraps or other hard baits across the top of the structure can produce very well by keying in on the Groupers aggression and triggering a reaction strike. #discovercrystalriver #pa, Catching a few fish on these rainy Florida days wi, Great day on the pond with my good friend James Ph. Gag grouper fish will often hide in crevices, under ledges, or among rocks and coral. I'm talkin, Don't let the grey beard fool you!!! Florida Fishing Adventures. October is prime time for inshore and nearshore fishing in the Crystal River area of Florida. When is the best month to go goliath grouper fishing in Crystal River? They have small mouths and relatively large eyes. We often see dolphins, manatees and tons of different species of birds, including white pelicans. Learn all about the benefits of charter fishing here this time of year. Catching a grouper isnt the hard part. Have fun and enjoy!! They are found in the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean- and also right here in Crystal River, Florida. Theres a reason they call is Red October. Schools of large upper slot and overslot redfish line the outer islands of the St. Martins Keys making for extremely fun sight fishing opportunities in crystal clear water. They are often caught as bycatch in commercial fishing but are also fished for sport or food. Offering up to date fishing tips, scalloping strategies, productive areas and hot baits. Trying to decide what time of year to book a trip? My boy Andy's l, Great day on the pond targeting Reds on fly. Caught trout, Spanish mackerel, and red fish. They tend to stay close to the bottom where there is plenty of cover. While your selection of fishing hooks is a personal choice, a circle hook can leverage your grouper fishing experience. How awesome would it be to put a Tarpon in the air or land a couple of Snook all before most folks pour their first cup of coffee? It was a good find and something I could certainly use, a big Mann's Stretch 30 trolling plug. Looks though our reports or subscribe to our reports! The grouper bite is staying steady especially for the heat of summer the summer time storms have been keeping the water temperatures down. 9340 W Fort Island Trail This can create some outstanding fishing once they get comfortable. I'm a Native Floridian, and have been fishing the Homosassa, Crystal River, and Ozello area all of my life. I honestly cant say that I blame those fun loving beachgoers for wanting to soak up some sun during the spring break season here in Florida. It is this combination of structure, food, and temperate waters that bring gag grouper into the Crystal River inshore fishery. Crystal River is a great place to go for fishing charters. Best of all, its always open and ready to welcome anglers year-round. We will be back., Irene Rubin Fort worth, Texas Great Guide- Great Fishing, Matt A. from Kill Devil Hills, NC I mean, capt. Welcome Spring Breakers!!! Had an amazing family on the boat today. Offering Inshore, Flats, Offshore, Scalloping, and Grouper fishing charters we have all your fishing needs covered here at High Octane Fishing Charters. Most of our Grouper Fishing is done anywhere from 8-30 of water. Thankfully the Nature Coast, which includes Crystal River and Homosassa, was spared, as Have you ever been to one of those large family gatherings where one of the grandparents or great parents is talking about a family member only to throw the words Bless His Heart into the story? Or looking for where to fish in your own vessel? Florida Fishing Adventures. These fish have an uncanny ability to bury the rod and get off in the rocks. When youre looking for the best-hidden spots for fishing in Crystal River, we also have you covered! 8/0 to 10/0 circle hooks typically work great. Also, try casting behind the structure where you think the grouper might be holding out of reach. This fish particularly has a lot of calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium. Great fishery, things heat up in the warmer monthes.. April is stormy and unpredictable. Along the expansive grass flats here, rock formations make up nearly half of the bottom structures. Crystal River Shallow Water Grouper Fishing Capt. When we were out, we had a descent breeze, but it's still really warm. If youre not an experienced angler and want to catch fish in a short period of time, then the best option for you is going on a fishing charter. Grouper fishing in Crystal River is typically done by bottom fishing with live bait, and the best time to fish for grouper is during the cooler months. Be sure to lock down the drag and hold on tight as these fish will give it everything they got to get you down in the rocks. These young anglers put on a fishing cli. If you are itching to hook a gag grouper or 10, one of the best ways to begin is by going on a fishing charter in Crystal River. It sits on the Crystal River where you can swim with manatees. Mostly considered an offshore species, juvenile gags mature in bays and deeper grass flats close to . The health benefits of this fish include low-fat content, omega-3 fatty acids, high protein, and a lot of vitamins. Grouper works in a variety of dishes, including the classic fish sandwich. Now one might think that targeting Grouper in such shallow water would mean catching smaller fish, and while some fish are smaller, some of the largest Grouper we catch throughout the year come from these shallow depths. What is the key to snapper fishing in Crystal River, FL? Its a relaxing and exciting experience that allows you to connect with friends, family, and nature alike. The captain can also offer bait if needed. Pinfishes are demersal fish, meaning they spend most of their time in the shallow waters near the bottom of the ocean. Hard fighters paired with being a delectable table fair make it a fish everyone can enjoy. Including Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River, Yankeetown, Waccasassa, and Cedar Key. There is something to do for everyone in our area. These young wranglers kept the rod, bent all day. 9340 W Fort Island Trail Summer time is our rainy season. A beautiful scenery paired with a healthy and thriving habitat provides an amazing estuary for fish such as, When it comes to fishing, the gag grouper can be a challenge. We found them! S from Cincinatii, OH Had a great time on the water and caught fish for dinner. The gag groupers mouth can also open up wider than most other fish because it has muscles that allow it to expand and contract. While there are many opinions out there on what that might be, we like to use pinfish for grouper bait. Are you ready to hook some gag grouper? With the Thanksgiving holiday on our doorstep and Christmas right around the corner many families are planning their annual family fishing trips to the Nature Coast and wondering what the action has been like. Read Crystal River fishing reports from March 2023. However, in Crystal River Florida it does! Continue reading. Whether you're an inshore or offshore angler, there are incredible opportunities to catch some serious "dinners." The highlight, though, without a doubt, is chasing down shallow water grouper. Its keeping it. These fish have an uncanny ability to bury the rod and get off in the rocks. Why is this cooler weather so special, you may ask? An unusual water rescue was staged in a Florida river after witnesses reported a discarded fishing lure had somehow pinned a manatee's flipper to its face. While most anglers may think that targeting Grouper typically requires a long run offshore to deeper waters, many would be surprised to learn that the Nature Coast of Florida is the epicenter for targeting Gag Grouper in shallow water. These are limestone formations that are not found in this many of a number anywhere along the Gulf coast except here. Captain, Owner, and Fishing Guide At Florida Fishing Adventures in Crystal River, Florida. I love fishing the Nature Coast. If you're looking to charter a Florida flats fishing guide, I hope to hear from you soon. 352-601-1963 Bring a rain jacket just if you fish in the summer. #realsal, God! Water is nice and warm in the summer. #pathfinderb, Coming to a mailbox near you!! If so, lets talk about what they look like. Grouper has a subtle taste and it is not overly fishy. Grouper are heavy fish and put up a good fight, so you want equipment that can withstand the stress without breaking. 12645 W Fort Island Trail The trout fishing has slowed down with warmer temperatures we have been fishing from 12-16 feet slow jigging mirrolure little johns in root beer and watermelon red on a 1/4 ounce jig head. As the water temperature starts to drop into the low 70s, the Grouper start to swim (migrate) their way east. Crystal River is known for its gorgeous clear waters, but did you know its also a hot spot for grouper fishing? Be sure to include the following on your next gag grouper fishing trip: Gag grouper fish are ambush predators, which means they hide in places where they can easily conceal themselves from their prey. What Fish Are Biting in Crystal River, FL, While fishing the Inshore waters of Crystal River the options are endless. Offering up to date, strategies, productive areas and hot baits. Our numerous shallow water rock piles make our area arguably the best place to grouper fish in the state of Florida. The Gulf Coast of Florida experienced a devastating weather event earlier this month when Hurricane Ian made land fall off the coast of Fort Myers Beach as a near category 5 storm. That said, there is a peak activity season where most anglers switch to targeting them specifically. We initially said hunt because thats exactly what fishing for grouper is like. Are you new to fishing for gag grouper? An egg sinker, swivel, circle hook, and your favorite leader is all you need to make the most effect rig for catching Grouper, the fish finder rig. Email Us! Contact Fish Hunter Tours and Captain Bryan Frechette for a great fishing trip. Shallow water or inshore fishing and grouper do not go hand in hand in most areas. Check out our June Fishing Report to learn the inside tips and tricks to catching grouper. Gag grouper are present and fairly active all year long. Inshore, grouper, tarpon, scalloping, and fly fishing news. This is the place to be if you want to catch fish or just enjoy the water. Contact fishing booker thay no who tofix you up with and the guided we have met are straight shooters, Ask your Captain - they know the area and the best catch for the time of year you visit, Bring a jacket if you are fishing in the am , gets cold early morning , warms up nicely mid morning. If you want to catch a lot of grouper fish, you need to use the best bait for grouper. Once you find the school, live pinfish has been a great bait to keep these fish fired up. The boat was comfortable and had plenty of room to accommodate our group of 5. Its 2023 , and the new year is starting right with inshore and offshore action.Our water temps have been colder than average. February 21, 2023. Either use SPF 50 sunscreen or wear long shirt/pants. If you are fishing for a large grouper fish, try casting very far out into the water. Its hard to believe that May is already in the rearview mirror. There are others, but these two have the densist population and are the most readily available to target. Here at Crystal River Guide Service, Captain Casey is your local go-to inshore grouper fishing guide in Crystal River. But if youre planning to go during the colder months, keep in mind that most freshwater species are seasonal. Florida Fishing in in October. However, the reward has been well worth it for anglers willing to bundle up and put in the time. Trying to decide what time of year to. The largest grouper fish recorded weighed almost 700 pounds! It is a beautiful, natural, rural area. As December and the year 2022 come to an end; we can't help but savor the incredible year High Octane Charters has had. All grouper fish have large, thick bodies and wide mouths, despite the fact that there are many species. Really good fighting fish. Crystal River is a great place to go for both saltwater and freshwater fishing charters. #realsal, God! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Anywhere from 15-30 you can expect to catch quality grouper on live and dead baits. Should You Go Fishing in Crystal River in January. Looking to go fishing in Crystal River in January? Contact us today with questions. Some reservations may require a deposit. Experience Crystal River waters with a licensed & insured local -- Captain Brandon Branch. But just off its shores is a series of freshwater springs that attract numerous different species of fish from all over the Gulf Coast every year. We have recently been fishing in anywhere from 10-20 feet of water yielding great limits of quality gag grouper. Try casting around these areas and luring in grouper with baits such as shrimp or squid strips. Dress warm in the morning and a bring a light rain jacket--you will get wet from sea spray. All you have to do is pay for the charter. These fish arent just sitting around waiting for us to catch them. A beautiful scenery paired with a healthy and thriving habitat provides an amazing estuary for fish such as, When it comes to fishing, the gag grouper can be a challenge. Located on US Hwy 19, Grannies kitchen has over 2,000 Google reviews and 4.6 stars. 12645 W Fort Island Trail When you use the right approach with circle hooks, they will hook the grouper at the corner of the mouth. Back in early 60's the US Navy used our coastal waters to test dummy MK 82 bombs and Mk 76 smoke bombs. The weather here in Crystal River this time of year is what we all dream of. Casey is a god, basically the best fisherman ever. It has high levels of mercury, which can cause problems such as bloody stool, mood swings, memory loss, or muscle weakness. Come out with Finders Keepers Charters and try to catch these tasty fish on light to medium tackle either bottom fishing or trolling lipped plugs. We use 65lb braid and 100lb Fluorocarbon Leader to pull these fish from their homes. Crystal River, Florida, is a prime fishing destination with various species to catch and beautiful scenery to enjoy. All of the great guides here at Reel Florida Fishing Charters hope that 2022 was a prosperous year for everyone and we wish all of you the very best going into 2023. Youll ride along with an experienced captain ensure that the trip is safe and enjoyable. As the cooler weather starts to set in, fall is upon us. These locations are expansive flats with a unique ecology that draws in this awesome species of grouper. Come along with Captain Jayce on a fishing charter, and get ready to hook the catch of a lifetime. They were a good size and plentiful enough to keep us busy. No v, Get my money's worth out of this one!!! read more Big Ol" Black Drum Sep 19, 2022 Some days we start by locating the fish with large chunks of mullet strategically placed all along the mangrove island bank, once we find the fish we hone in on that location and get to Catching. In addition to fishing for grouper in Crystal River, check out the following ideas for things to do this month: Grouper is an amazing fish, and catching one is a feat. data-event-category="Navigation header guest". Although they are small, pinfishes can be quite tasty. #pathfinderb, Coming to a mailbox near you!! July fishing can very hot but very rewarding. Gag Grouper and Redfish is the staple of Crystal River Fishing and there is no better time than now to catch multiples of these species in a day with the chance of breaking your personal best on the very next cast. Be sure to check out our new website and give us any feedback you might have. Redfish and Snook in the backcountry + Grouper are lurking. CRYSTAL RIVER FISHING REPORT Covering the inshore and offshore waters of Florida's Big Bend. However, they can also be found in temperate environments. Its a lot of fun to get a experience fishing for gag grouper, all while finding the secret places where they like to hide. The most prevalent of these features are rock formations. Crystal River, Florida, makes an excellent choice for charter fishing. Grouper are notorious for breaking anglers off in nearby structures; therefore, we have to use some seriously stout tackle.