The weather here in Crystal River this time of year is what we all dream of. Over time the constant bombardment of dropping these heavy dummy bombs created large areas of scattered craters that have become perfect hiding areas for hungry Grouper. Fresh Fishing Reports from Crystal River. Whats not to love about warm sunny days and ice-cold celebratory cocktails? 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. Grouper can be caught on a wide variety of baits. For species such as Grouper, Red Snapper, Snook and Redfish. Are you ready to hook some gag grouper? Grouper can be caught on a variety of lures like spoons and jigs, but they are smart fish, so you need to be strategic about the type of bait you use as well as your choice of equipment. These are limestone formations that are not found in this many of a number anywhere along the Gulf coast except here. This is a popular spot with the locals with a great atmosphere. When you use the right approach with circle hooks, they will hook the grouper at the corner of the mouth. Crystal River, Florida, is a prime fishing destination with various species to catch and beautiful scenery to enjoy. Should You Go Fishing in Crystal River in January. CRYSTAL RIVER FISHING REPORT Covering the inshore and offshore waters of Florida's Big Bend. As the water temperature starts to drop into the low 70s, the Grouper start to swim (migrate) their way east. 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 odd predicament left the docile . He or she will help you set up the gear, give you tips on how to catch fish. They have small mouths and relatively large eyes. open menu Crystal River Sport Fishing Sport Fishing Slip 12645 W Fort Island Trail Crystal River, FL 34429 Map/Directions (813) 486-4642 captjaycemassaro@gmail.com Hours Always Open Reviews Book Fishing Charter Follow us on. Contact Fish Hunter Tours and Captain Bryan Frechette for a great fishing trip. The action is a little . Battle some of the hardest fighting fish in Florida all while experiencing the beauty of the Nature Coast on your guided fishing trip. This will help you identify them when its time to go out on your fishing trip. 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. But it is worth it to find the fish! Tip: arrive early as this restaurant gets very busy! I'm talkin, Don't let the grey beard fool you!!! Book a Fishing Charter Trip Today with High Octane Fishing Charters. All rights reserved. Crystal River, FL 34429, 2023 Crystal River Fishing Charters. | Sitemap, Website Design & Marketing by Hooked Marketing, Max: 4 Inshore & Grouper / Max: 6 Scalloping. There is something to do for everyone in our area. 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. You dont have to buy a fishing boat or buy fishing gear. 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. Back in early 60s the US Navy used our coastal waters to test dummy MK 82 bombs and Mk 76 smoke bombs. Are you looking to go gag grouper fishing this fall? In addition to being convenient, going on a fishing charter is also cost-effective. Email Address: I'm talkin, Don't let the grey beard fool you!!! Looking for the best time of year to fish in Crystal River? The sun is no joke. The two most popular species of grouper and snapper in Crystal River are Gag Grouper and Mangrove Snapper. Really good fighting fish. 9340 W Fort Island Trail Youll ride along with an experienced captain ensure that the trip is safe and enjoyable. I love fishing the Nature Coast. Catching a grouper isnt the hard part. February 21, 2023. Why Fishing in Crystal River, FL is One of the , Crystal River Fishing Reports: May Recap and Wh, While fishing the Inshore waters of Crystal River the options are endless. Offering Inshore, Flats, Offshore, Scalloping, and Grouper fishing charters we have all your fishing needs covered here at High Octane Fishing Charters. Great fishery, things heat up in the warmer monthes.. April is stormy and unpredictable. February 19, 2023. Oops, there was an error sending your message. There are many colors and patterns of grouper fish, but they are all characterized by large scales. As the cooler weather starts to set in, fall is upon us. The grouper season here opens on 1 June. You may have to swim against the tide, chase fleeing shellfish, etc. Summer time is our rainy season. Continue reading. Learn all about the benefits of charter fishing here this time of year. 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!! Crystal River is a pristine coastal fishery that is known for epic battles with snook and tarpon, houses many of the most sought-after inshore species anywhere, but it also holds one of the most unique experiences found along Florida's coast - Shallow water grouper fishing! Cool mornings with warm afternoons making for a great fishing environment is what we live for. Another way to target Grouper is with trolling plug. Or looking for where to fish in your own vessel? As extreme, A private scallop charter in Crystal River, Florida is the perfect activity for a group of friends looking to relax, connect and enjoy some quality time in the beauty of, Fishing & Scalloping Charter PricingGroups larger than 4 (for fishing) and larger than 6 (for scalloping) can be accommodated with another captain(s) if requested. All rights reserved. Rock piles, ledges, or any underwater structure is a great place for a grouper to be hiding waiting for his next meal. Our miles of hard rocky bottom provides an ideal habitat for these fish. Let's start by saying grouper can be caught 365 days a year out of Crystal River, but the absolute best bite occurs during the fall as these large grouper push in closer to shore as our waters cool. Web Design by SteamWorks | Page One Fishing. Gag grouper are present and fairly active all year long. facebook; youtube; instagram; 352-601-1963; . Best of all, its always open and ready to welcome anglers year-round. 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. As for the Redfishing here in Crystal River, it couldnt be any better. We are the experienced fishing character that can help you catch grouper, along with many other types of fish. Trying to decide what time of year to. These fish are extreme tackle testers so you better be ready for the battle with some high quality gear and some beefed up tackle. Grouper is a delicious fish. 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. Offering up to datefishingtips,scallopingstrategies, productive areas and hot baits. Very knowedgable, very friendly and great fisherman. July fishing can very hot but very rewarding. It is also great to absorb dressings and marinades. 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. Along the expansive grass flats here, rock formations make up nearly half of the bottom structures. If you're looking to charter a Florida flats fishing guide, I hope to hear from you soon. Gag grouper are an ambush predator that loves to hide inside of structure. Captain, Owner, and Fishing Guide At Florida Fishing Adventures in Crystal River, Florida. This is the time of year to start making plans and getting your spot locked in for this fishing opportunity. What Fish Are Biting in Crystal River, FL, While fishing the Inshore waters of Crystal River the options are endless. 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. At the same time, they are some of the best-tasting fish in the ocean and most do just fine with a cooler full of these two. 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. Gag Grouper In Crystal River What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Crystal River, Florida for the first time. The weather here in Crystal River this time of year is what we all dream of. You wont be disappointed, 12645 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429. 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. However, the inshore fishery here in Crystal River does just that. Love th, Another tough winter day here in Florida. Sign me up as a fan Im often asked how we choose the guides that work with us here at Reel Florida Fishing Charters. You can expect your captain to be friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced when you go on a charter. Also, try casting behind the structure where you think the grouper might be holding out of reach. We often see dolphins, manatees and tons of different species of birds, including white pelicans. Offering up to date fishing tips, scalloping strategies, productive areas and hot baits. Learn where, when, and how to catch fishing in Crystal River, Florida with High Octane Fishing Charters. Reports Winter Time Fishing The Nature Coast Jan 17, 2023 Happy New Year anglers!! These grouper, Another awesome day chasing tailing Redfish along, Good times today with the family here in Crystal R, Talk about a fun day!!!! The main tried and true bait that gag grouper simply can't pass up is the trusty pinfish. Grouper fish are relatively easy to identify. Looks though our reports or subscribe to our reports! The Crystal River can be really shallow, so make sure you're out with an experienced captain. These young wranglers kept the rod, bent all day. See what fish are biting now in Crystal River and find out where to catch them. Check out our June Fishing Report to learn the inside tips and tricks to catching grouper. In less than 20 feet of water, gag grouper can be found patrolling the inshore waters of Crystal River. Offering up to date, strategies, productive areas and hot baits. Its a lot of fun to get a experience fishing for gag grouper, all while finding the secret places where they like to hide. Happy New Year anglers!! Either use SPF 50 sunscreen or wear long shirt/pants. As extreme, A private scallop charter in Crystal River, Florida is the perfect activity for a group of friends looking to relax, connect and enjoy some quality time in the beauty of, Fishing & Scalloping Charter PricingGroups larger than 4 (for fishing) and larger than 6 (for scalloping) can be accommodated with another captain(s) if requested. 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 see copious amounts of wildlife and experience the beauty of this area! Exploring the Benefits of Crystal River Fishing Charters: The Top Reasons to Book Now, Snapper Fishing in 2023: What to Expect from Crystal River, FL, Where, When, and How: Catching Fish in Crystal River. Post Hurricane Ian Fishing Report. Great weather and great fishing. A shiny red-and-white fishing plug floated past our boat in the Gulf of Mexico, as we cast for trout on the Steinhatchee grass flats. They are intelligent and fast-moving, so catching them takes some skill. They are often caught as bycatch in commercial fishing but are also fished for sport or food. Offering Inshore, Flats, Offshore, Scalloping, and Grouper fishing charters we have all your fishing needs covered here at High Octane Fishing Charters. Keep in mind that you dont want to set the hook when you use circle hooks. Crystal River, FL 34429, 2023 Crystal River Fishing Charters. I love fishing the Nature Coast. Redfish, Snook, Speckled Trout, and Gag Grouper are all biting well this time of year, and the weather is usually cooperative, with sunny days and mild temperatures. open menu Crystal River Sport Fishing Sport Fishing Slip 12645 W Fort Island Trail Crystal River, FL 34429 Map/Directions (813) 486-4642 captjaycemassaro@gmail.com Hours Always Open Reviews Book Fishing Charter Follow us on. Read Crystal River fishing reports from March 2023. Again concentrate on the early morning and late afternoon bites for more success on the water in the dog days of summer. Web Design by SteamWorks | Page One Fishing, Your Crystal River Spring 2023 Fishing Guide, Crystal River, Florida, is a prime fishing destination with various species to catch and beautiful, Its Almost Tarpon Time: Catching The Silver King, Its almost that time of year again when Tarpon makes its annual migration to the, February Species to Target on Crystal River Fishing Charters, Crystal River is a renowned fishing destination in Florida, famous for its picturesque waterways and, Crystal River Kayak Fishing: an Unforgettable Adventure, Crystal River, located in the Gulf of Mexico, is a fishing paradise and offers exceptional, Your February Guide to Fishing in Crystal River, Crystal River, located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, offers some of the most incredible, Counting Sheepshead: Crystal River Winter Fishing Guide, Crystal River is one of the most active inshore fisheries found anywhere, during any time, Fishing Trip Packages: The Ultimate Florida Getaway, Fishing in Florida is one of the state's most beloved pastimes, and what better way, Top Tips For Sneaking Up On Shallow Water Species, The thrill of stalking your prey in shallow waters is an unmatchable experience for any, If you're looking for a fulfilling and exciting day on the water, look no further, As one of the best spots for world-class fishing, nearly all anglers find it hard, Four Fish To Target During Extreme Winter Tides, Are you looking for an adrenaline-packed fishing experience this winter in Crystal River? Its a relaxing and exciting experience that allows you to connect with friends, family, and nature alike. The water is beautiful but it is hot out so come prepared for lots of heat and sun. 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. Inshore Half Day(4 Hours) 1-2 People, 20212023 Crystal River Sport Fishing. We have a very unique fishery that allows us to catch quality Gag Grouper in less than 20 ft of water. Florida Fishing Adventures. Gag grouper season runs June 1st-December 31st. It has high levels of mercury, which can cause problems such as bloody stool, mood swings, memory loss, or muscle weakness. It was a good find and something I could certainly use, a big Mann's Stretch 30 trolling plug. Sardines and threadfin herring are a good option if live bait isn't available. Trout bite is firing up. In fact, it has a slightly sweet taste and it has a texture that is easy to work with, even if you overcook it. 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. Copyright Reel Florida Fishing Charters 2019-2021, Crystal River Little League Opening Day!!! The trout fishing has slowed down with warmer temperatures we have been fishing from 12-16 feet slow jigging mirrolure little johns in . While your selection of fishing hooks is a personal choice, a circle hook can leverage your grouper fishing experience. Learn all about the different snapper varieties here. Cool mornings with warm afternoons making for a great fishing environment is what we live for. Had an amazing family on the boat today. 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. Trying to decide what time of year to book a trip? If you catch a few and then don't see any for a while, don't get discouraged. Florida Fishing in in October. Fish to 20 pounds are not unusual, and trust me, theres nothing like battling one of these bruisers on spinning tackle in shallow water. I'm a Native Floridian, and have been fishing the Homosassa, Crystal River, and Ozello area all of my life. Come along with Captain Jayce on a fishing charter, and get ready to hook the catch of a lifetime. Most of our Grouper Fishing is done anywhere from 8-30 of water. The redfish and trout where great for dinner. 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. Let's work on making this year the best year ever!!!. We went scalloping (not fishing). These fish have an uncanny ability to bury the rod and get off in the rocks. Fishing reports for the Crystal River, Florida area, including Homosassa. captnickwarrington@gmail.com. Grouper fish tend to be drawn to structure so they can often be found on reefs or near docks and jetties. ? 8000 sized spinning reels spooled with 65-80 pound braid and 80 pound leader is what you need to get these fish in the boat. While there are many opinions out there on what that might be, we like to use pinfish for grouper bait. 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. Casey. Dress warm in the morning and a bring a light rain jacket--you will get wet from sea spray. This allows you to easily release the fish and improves the chance that it will live. If youre thinking about heading out on the water to catch one, be sure to come along with Crystal River Sport Fishing! Throwing lures is one of the most exhilarating ways to catch them. . 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. These young wranglers kept the rod, bent all day. 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. The largest grouper fish recorded weighed almost 700 pounds! I would have never ever caught any of these massive reds with out his expertise. 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. A live bait, such as a pinfish, is grouper candy and is hard for them to resist. read more Big Ol" Black Drum Sep 19, 2022 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. #realsal, God! 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. Grouper has a subtle taste and it is not overly fishy. Even with a 50, one of us got really burned. Regardless of the method you choose, you can do a few things to improve your chances of catching a grouper fish. 12645 W Fort Island Trail Looks though our reports or subscribe to our reports! If you are new to the area, new to inshore grouper fishing, or traveling from afar to come and try your hand at this unique fishing opportunity, a seasoned guide will be key. Fishing charters take anglers out along the Crystal River to catch gag grouper. We look forward to. They are found in the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean- and also right here in Crystal River, Florida. 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. 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. 9340 W Fort Island Trail Its a very accessible place with plenty of different fish species, and its always an exciting time. No v, Get my money's worth out of this one!!! Trolling lures are a great way to effectively cover ground and key in on the aggressive instinct of these strong fighters. Reel wise, a Daiwa BGMQ8000 can handle just about anything out there. Check out the May fishing report for Crystal River Fishing, offering insight on what's biting now! You can feel the shear stopping power of these fish when they hit the lure. I want to be just like capt Casey when I grow up., Casey Russell is a highly experienced guide. 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? Spring time is coming in Spanish mackerel are coming in. Typically, fishing the 8-25 foot range October-December allows anglers a chance to land the fish of a lifetime and take home some delicious fillets. However, they can also be found in temperate environments. Crystal River is home to a unique shallow-water grouper fishery that is home to an extremely healthy population of gag grouper. When it comes to gag grouper fishing in Crystal River, you need to have the right tackle ready to go. 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. Looking to go fishing in Crystal River in January? A live pinfish on the bottom has given us the best outcomes so far this year. 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. Captain Jayce is the go-to gag grouper fishing charter captain in Crystal River, FL. Its hard to believe that May is already in the rearview mirror. S from Cincinatii, OH Had a great time on the water and caught fish for dinner. Inshore, grouper, tarpon, scalloping, and fly fishing news. 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. Florida Fishing Adventures. It is relatively easy to identify grouper fish. Although not as durable, frozen baits can get the job done as well. Welcome Spring Breakers!!! Curious about fishing for grouper in Crystal River? The most prevalent of these features are rock formations. Be sure to check out our new website and give us any feedback you might have. Water is nice and warm in the summer. Crystal River, Florida Fishing Report October 2021 Nick Warrington Oct 26, 2021 Shallow water grouper fishing has been hot! We look forward to hearing from you. #pathfinderb, Coming to a mailbox near you!! Back in early 60's the US Navy used our coastal waters to test dummy MK 82 bombs and Mk 76 smoke bombs. The time we all look forward to has arrived once again: Grouper time! There are several ways to catch a grouper fish from shore. Grouper sandwiches have been plentiful as of late for our Crystal River clients. Thats the word that comes to mind as I try my best to describe the latest fishing action here along the Nature Coast. Some species can grow quite large in fact, the largest recorded grouper fish was almost 700 pounds! Shallow water or inshore fishing and grouper do not go hand in hand in most areas. We pair these up with 7' Daiwa Harrier X rods to land these beasts. The time we have all been looking forward to, cooler weather, has arrived here in Crystal River! These grouper, Another awesome day chasing tailing Redfish along, Good times today with the family here in Crystal R, Talk about a fun day!!!! Although they are small, pinfishes can be quite tasty. If so, lets talk about what they look like. Come prepared for a strong swim. #discovercrystalriver #pa, Catching a few fish on these rainy Florida days wi, Great day on the pond with my good friend James Ph. One of the notable considerations of eating grouper is its mercury grade. 8/0 to 10/0 circle hooks typically work great. Some anglers like to use lures or bait, while others prefer to simply wade into the water and cast their line out. 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. This is the place to be if you want to catch fish or just enjoy the water. But if youre planning to go during the colder months, keep in mind that most freshwater species are seasonal. Well as the old saying goes for every mile you venture off our coast it only gets a foot deeper.. Casey is a god, basically the best fisherman ever. The crystal clear waters in this small city make it an awesome place to hunt for these elusive fish. You can certainly eat it if you wish! These fish are extreme tackle testers so you better be ready for the battle with some high quality gear and some beefed up tackle. If you want to catch a lot of grouper fish, you need to use the best bait for grouper. Usually those words are the precursor for a story of struggles or How many of you enjoy a nice warm cup of coffee to get you going before you start the day? Caught over grass flats with sabiki rigs or traps, these frisky baits are sure to catch a grouper's eye. The captain can also offer bait if needed. Meanwhile, gag grouper fish are known for their large mouths that give them a wide gape when feeding. 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. For many people, freshwater fishing charters in Florida are the main attraction. Are you visiting Crystal River in the month of June? Mostly considered an offshore species, juvenile gags mature in bays and deeper grass flats close to . 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. The snook bite continues to stay really strong on the hard incoming tides on the outside points using live bait and fast moving weedless jerkbaits. When to Catch Grouper in Crystal River One of the Florida Gulf Coast's greatest fishing experiences is found in Crystal River. Get a bite to eat at Grannies Country Cookin Restaurant. Crystal River is home to a unique shallow-water grouper fishery that is home to an extremely healthy population of gag grouper. There are others, but these two have the densist population and are the most readily available to target. It is a beautiful, natural, rural area. June is primarily dedicated to Gag Grouper, as it is one of our most popular species to target. With temperatures averaging in the low to mid-50's at times, the fish have been less aggressive than normal. How shallow one may ask? Here at Crystal River Guide Service, Captain Casey is your local go-to inshore grouper fishing guide in Crystal River. If so,, Preparing For Backcountry Winter Fishing In Crystal River, Crystal River offers some of the best fishing in Florida, and winter is a great.