Get ready to hit the Gulf waters for a full day of offshore action! This 8-hour weekend trip out of Pensacola is your ticket to some serious deep-sea fishing. We're talking cobia, bonito, snapper, grouper – the works. Whether you're a total newbie or a seasoned pro, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you can focus on landing that monster catch you've been dreaming about. With room for six anglers, it's the perfect way to spend a weekend doing what you love best – fishing!
Alright, let's break down what you're in for on this trip. We'll be heading out bright and early, so grab your coffee and meet us at the dock. Once we're loaded up, we'll cruise out to some of the Gulf's most productive offshore spots. These aren't your average fishing holes – we're talking about deep-water havens where the big boys hang out. You'll be dropping lines for a mix of bottom-dwellers and pelagic species, so be ready for anything. Our crew will get you set up with the right rigs and bait, and they'll be right there to help you land that trophy catch when it strikes. And trust me, out here, it's not a matter of if, but when.
Now, let's chat about how we make the magic happen out there. We're equipped with top-notch rods and reels designed for offshore battles. Depending on what's biting, we might be doing some bottom fishing with heavy weights and circle hooks for those tasty snappers and groupers. Or, we could switch it up and do some trolling for the speedsters like bonito. If we spot some cobia, get ready for sight casting – that's when things really get exciting. Don't sweat it if you're new to this; our crew will walk you through every technique. We've got all the bait and tackle on board, from squid and cigar minnows to jigs and lures. Just bring your game face and maybe a lucky hat.
Red Snapper: These guys are the rock stars of the Gulf. With their bright red color and tasty white meat, they're always a favorite. Red snapper love structure, so we'll be hitting some prime spots where they hang out. They put up a great fight, especially when you're pulling them up from the deep. The bigger ones can push 30 pounds, so get ready for some arm-wrestling!
Spadefish: Don't let their quirky looks fool you – spadefish are a blast to catch. These disc-shaped fighters school up around structures and can give you a run for your money on light tackle. They're not huge, usually topping out around 10 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in personality. Plus, they're excellent eating if you know how to clean them right.
King Mackerel: Also known as kingfish, these speedsters are the sprinters of the Gulf. When a king mackerel hits your line, hold on tight! They're known for blistering runs and aerial acrobatics that'll have your heart racing. We typically catch them trolling, and the bigger ones can top 50 pounds. If you're looking for a fish that'll make you work for your dinner, kings are it.
Atlantic Bonito: These little powerhouses are like the muscle cars of the sea. They're smaller cousins to tuna, usually in the 5-15 pound range, but pound for pound, they fight like crazy. Bonito travel in schools, so when we find them, it's often non-stop action. They're great for anglers who want constant excitement and don't mind trading size for numbers.
Permit: Landing a permit is like winning the offshore lottery. These elusive fish are prized for their challenging nature and strong fights. They've got great eyesight and are notoriously picky eaters, so catching one is a real feather in your cap. We don't see them every trip, but when we do, it's game on. They love hanging around structures and can grow up to 50 pounds, giving you a serious workout if you hook into a big one.
Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing these Pensacola waters. It's not just about the fish – though trust me, they're a big part of it. It's the whole package. You've got the wide-open Gulf stretching out as far as the eye can see, the salty breeze in your face, and that electric feeling when your rod bends double with a big hit. Our regulars come back year after year because they know we put them on the fish, sure, but also because of the experiences they have out here. Whether it's watching a pod of dolphins play in the wake or seeing the sunset paint the sky as we head back to port, these are the moments that stick with you. Plus, there's nothing quite like the camaraderie that builds when you're all working together to fill the fish box. It's fishing, but it's also so much more.
Alright, folks, if you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some of the Gulf's finest, now's your chance. This 8-hour trip is the real deal – we're talking about a full day of offshore action with all the fixings. Remember, we've only got room for six, so don't wait too long to lock in your spot. Whether you're looking to put some meat in the freezer or just want to experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing, we've got you covered. Bring your buddies, bring your family, or come solo and make some new fishing friends. Just make sure you come ready to have a blast and maybe set a new personal best. The fish are out there waiting, and trust me, they're hungry. So what do you say? Let's make some waves and create some stories you'll be telling for years to come. Book now and get ready for a weekend you won't forget!
Atlantic Bonito are like miniature tuna, typically 5-10 pounds and lightning fast. You'll often spot them chasing bait on the surface, with birds circling above. They prefer cooler waters, so spring and fall are prime times to target them. Bonito hang out from near-shore to several miles out, usually in the upper part of the water column. These fish are a blast on light tackle, making long, speedy runs. To catch them, try trolling small lures or casting metal jigs into feeding schools. A local trick is to look for the "nervous water" they create when feeding - cast right into it for instant action. While not great table fare, Bonito make excellent cut bait for other species. They're a great warmup for bigger game fish and perfect for getting kids or new anglers hooked on offshore fishing.
King Mackerel, or "Kings," are speed demons of the Gulf, known for blistering runs that'll make your reel scream. They average 15-30 pounds but can top 90. Look for them in 40-150 feet of water, often near structures or following bait schools. Spring and fall migrations offer the best action. Kings are popular for their explosive strikes and long, fast fights. To target them, try slow-trolling live baits like blue runners or menhaden. A local tip: use a stinger rig with two treble hooks to improve your hookup ratio - Kings are known for short-striking baits. Be careful handling them though; they've got some serious teeth. While not the best eating, Kings offer an exciting catch that'll test your gear and skills. Just remember, they've got high mercury levels, so it's catch-and-release for the big ones.
Permit are the holy grail for many flats anglers, known for being incredibly picky and challenging to catch. These silvery, disc-shaped fish usually run 10-30 pounds but can reach 60. You'll find them tailing in shallow flats or around offshore wrecks and reefs. Spring and summer are prime seasons when they spawn. Permit have incredible eyesight and are easily spooked, which is why anglers love the challenge. For the best shot, use small crabs or crab-like lures. A local tip: when sight-fishing, cast well ahead of the fish and let them find your bait - a direct cast often spooks them. Patience is key - you might make dozens of casts before getting a bite. But when you hook one, be ready for a long, powerful fight. It's all about the pursuit with permit, making them a true trophy fish for those who love a challenge.
Red Snapper are a prized catch in our Gulf waters, typically weighing 5-10 pounds but can grow up to 35 pounds or more. You'll find them hanging around reefs, wrecks, and other structures in depths of 30 to 620 feet. These fish put up a good fight and taste great on the dinner table. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but we catch them year-round. Snapper have excellent eyesight, so using fluorocarbon leaders can give you an edge. When targeting big ones, try dropping a live bait like pinfish or cigar minnows to the bottom. Watch out though - they'll often try to run back to cover when hooked. If you feel weight but no head shakes, start reeling fast to get them away from structure. Patience and proper technique are key with these smart, hard-fighting fish.
Spadefish are an interesting catch - they're disc-shaped with black stripes and usually run 3-10 pounds. You'll find them around structures like reefs, wrecks, and even buoys, often in large schools. They prefer shallower, warmer waters near the coast. Spring and summer are the best times to target them. Spadefish put up a surprisingly good fight for their size, which makes them fun to catch. To land one, try using small hooks baited with pieces of clam or jellyball. A local trick is to chum with bits of clam to get the school excited, then drop your bait in. Be ready for a quick strike - they can be finicky eaters. While not the biggest fish out there, spadefish offer steady action and a unique challenge that many anglers enjoy.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 150