3/4 Day Nearshore

Six hours nearshore means we don't have to pick just one program. We can anchor up on the reef and chum for yellowtail, then pull the hook and run to a wreck to see what's holding, then drop on hard bottom for grouper on the way in. Different spots produce at different points in the day, and having a full six hours lets Captain Brooks fish the pattern instead of hoping the first stop is the right one.

The species list opens up accordingly. Yellowtail snapper on the reef, mutton snapper and red and black grouper off the bottom, and permit and cobia around the wrecks — a good six-hour day often puts three or four different species in the cooler. Barracuda and jacks show up to keep things interesting, and the extra time gives you a legitimate shot at the bigger grouper and muttons that a short trip usually doesn't reach. Everything you keep gets filleted and bagged at the dock, ready for the grill or a cook-your-catch restaurant on the island.

The Pathfinder 2600 HPS handles the run out and back easily and fishes comfortably for up to five anglers. All tackle, lures, live bait, ice, water, and Florida fishing licenses are included, so there's nothing to buy or arrange ahead of time. Light spinning tackle keeps the fight fun rather than a chore, and Captain Brooks is glad to walk anybody who's new through it. If you want more than a quick reef trip but can't give up a whole day, this is the one to book.