Ready to get your line wet and reel in some of the Gulf's top catches? Our 4-hour offshore trip in Naples, Florida is perfect for families, newbies, and seasoned anglers alike. We'll cruise up to 15 miles out, hitting prime spots where the big ones love to hang out. From grouper to snapper, kingfish to barracuda, there's always something biting in these waters. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's head out for a morning of rod-bending action!
We kick off bright and early at 7 AM, when the fish are most active and the Gulf is usually calm. Captain Joseph knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll get you right on the fish. We'll explore natural ledges and artificial reefs, using a mix of live bait and lures to target whatever's in season. Whether you're a total beginner or have some experience, the captain and crew will make sure you're comfortable and catching fish in no time. And with a max of 6 guests, you'll get plenty of personalized attention and time at the rail.
Offshore fishing in Naples is all about variety. We might start by bottom fishing over structure for grouper and snapper, using heavy tackle and live bait to entice these hard-fighting bottom dwellers. Then we could switch it up and do some trolling for kingfish and mackerel, dragging lures or live bait behind the boat. If we spot some surface action, we might even break out the light tackle for some exciting topwater fishing. The captain always has a few tricks up his sleeve, and he'll adapt our strategy based on what's biting that day. From artificial reefs teeming with life to natural ledges where the big boys hang out, we've got plenty of productive spots to hit during our 4-hour trip.
Gag Grouper: These bruisers are a favorite target for good reason. Gags love to hang around rocky bottoms and reefs, and they put up one heck of a fight. They can grow over 50 pounds, though most keeper-sized fish are in the 5-15 pound range. Gags are known for their initial powerful run towards structure, so you'll need to be quick on the reel to turn their head. The meat is white, flaky, and delicious – perfect for a post-trip fish fry.
Goliath Grouper: While we can't keep these gentle giants (they're protected), hooking into one is an experience you won't forget. Goliaths can grow over 800 pounds and are known for their enormous mouths and epic battles. They love to hang around wrecks and reefs, and even a "small" 100-pounder will test your arms and back. Just remember, it's catch-and-release only for these mammoth fish.
Red Grouper: Another tasty bottom dweller, red grouper are usually a bit smaller than their gag cousins but no less fun to catch. They tend to prefer slightly deeper water and are often found near ledges and rocky bottoms. Red grouper put up a strong, steady fight and are prized for their sweet, mild flesh. The average size we catch is 5-10 pounds, but bigger ones are always a possibility.
King Mackerel: Also known as "kingfish," these speedsters are a blast on light tackle. Kings are pelagic predators, often found in open water or around structures like reefs. They're known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. We typically catch them in the 10-30 pound range, though much larger specimens are possible. Kingfish make great smoked fish dip, a local favorite.
Cobia: Often called "ling" or "lemonfish," cobia are one of the most sought-after gamefish in the Gulf. They're curious creatures and sometimes follow the boat, giving us a chance to sight-cast to them. Cobia are strong fighters known for long, powerful runs. They typically range from 20-50 pounds in our area. The meat is excellent – firm and white with a mild flavor that's great on the grill.
There's something special about fishing the waters off Naples. Maybe it's the thrill of never knowing what you'll catch next. Or the way the sun sparkles on the Gulf as we cruise to our spots. Could be the satisfaction of reeling in your personal best, or just the simple joy of being out on the water with family and friends. Whatever brings you out, one thing's for sure – once you've experienced Naples offshore fishing, you'll be itching to come back for more.
Every season brings its own mix of species, but lately we've been seeing some stellar action. The gag grouper bite has been on fire, with several fish in the 20-30 pound range coming over the rail. Kingfish have been running thick, giving anglers some serious drag-screaming action. We've also been finding some big schools of mangrove snapper, perfect for those who want to fill the cooler with tasty fillets. And for the trophy hunters, we've had a few lucky anglers tangle with some monster Goliath grouper – always a memorable battle!
So there you have it, folks – a morning of world-class fishing just minutes from the beautiful beaches of Naples. Whether you're looking to bend a rod with the family, impress your business clients, or just escape for a few hours of salt air and tight lines, our 4-hour offshore trip has you covered. With limited spots available each weekend and the fish biting hot, you'll want to lock in your date soon. Give us a call or book online, and get ready for some reel action on the Gulf! Trust me, there's nothing like the smile on an angler's face when they're hooked into a big one – and I can't wait to see yours out there on the water.
Cobia are bruisers that'll test your gear and your arms. They average 20-40 pounds but can reach 100+. You'll often spot them near the surface around structures like buoys, wrecks, or even sea turtles. Spring and early summer are prime as they migrate along the coast. Cobia are curious fish and will sometimes swim right up to the boat. They're strong fighters, known for long, powerful runs. Sight-casting with live eels or large jigs is a popular tactic. Here's a tip: when you see a cobia, cast well ahead of it - they'll often chase down a bait. Be ready for anything once hooked, as these fish can dive, jump, and even try to wrap you around structure. Anglers love cobia for both the challenge and their excellent table quality. It's hard to beat the excitement of spotting one of these bronze bombers cruising by.
Gag Grouper are tough fighters that'll give you a real workout. They typically weigh 10-20 pounds but can reach 50+ pounds. Look for them around rocky bottoms, ledges, and reefs in 60-250 feet of water. Gags love structure, so target areas with lots of nooks and crannies. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move inshore to spawn. Anglers prize gags for their firm, white meat. To land one, use heavy tackle and strong line - these fish will try to dive back into their rocky lairs. Live bait like pinfish or squid works well. A local tip: when you feel the bite, reel quickly and pull up hard to get the grouper's head turned before it can hole up. It's a challenging catch, but the fight and flavor make it worthwhile.
Goliath Grouper are the giants of the grouper family, growing up to 8 feet and 800 pounds. You'll find them lurking around reefs, shipwrecks, and other structures in waters up to 150 feet deep. These massive fish are a sight to behold, but remember they're protected - it's catch and release only. Summer is prime time as they gather to spawn. Goliaths put up an incredible fight, using their size to their advantage. They're not picky eaters, so large live baits like blue runners work well. Be ready for some heavy lifting - you'll need sturdy gear to handle these monsters. A word of advice: once hooked, apply steady pressure to keep them from diving into structure. Even if you can't keep them, the thrill of tangling with a true sea giant makes Goliaths a bucket list catch for many anglers.
King Mackerel, or Kingfish, are speedsters that'll make your reel scream. They typically run 10-20 pounds but can top 100. Look for them in open water, often near bait schools, in depths of 20-150 feet. Spring and fall are prime as they migrate along the coast. Kings are famous for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. Trolling with live bait or spoons is a popular tactic. These fish have razor-sharp teeth, so wire leaders are a must. Here's a local trick: when a king strikes, let it run for a few seconds before setting the hook. This gives them time to turn the bait and get it in their mouth. Kingfish make for exciting fights and good eating, though larger ones can be a bit oily. The thrill of the chase and that sizzling first run keep anglers coming back for more.
Red Grouper are a favorite target, known for their tasty white meat. They average 5-15 pounds but can reach 50+. You'll find them over rocky bottoms and reefs in 60-300 feet of water. These fish are aggressive feeders, so they're fun to catch year-round. Spring and fall are especially good as they move to different depths. Reds put up a strong fight, trying to dive back to their rocky homes. Live bait like pinfish or squid is hard to beat. Here's a pro tip: when you feel the bite, reel fast and pull up hard to turn their head before they can hole up. Use sturdy tackle - 50-pound test line isn't overkill. Anglers love Red Grouper for both the challenge and the dinner table. Their sweet, mild flavor makes them one of the best eating fish in the Gulf.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 38
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 200