Offshore Report

Capt. Don McPherson

Wow! The summer is flying by. July gave us some nice weather days with a few not so good days. Fishing improved after the big bright moon disappeared and the strong west current backed off. Now for August. Red snapper season for federally permitted charter boats will end on July 21st. Recreational fishing for red snapper will continue through Labor Day weekend with weekends only.

The good red snapper bite should continue but will have to be released after season closes. Triggerfish will also have to be released. Amberjack will open August 1st. On a half-day trip, you may target vermillion snapper, possibly amberjack and fish for a big bull shark. Trolling for kings, Spanish mackerel and bonita can be a fun option on a 4-hour trip. Looking for more variety and more fish to keep? A full day of fishing offshore should give you a chance at scamp grouper, red grouper, gag grouper, vermillion snapper, white snapper, Almaco jacks, amberjack, king mackerel and possibly a wahoo.

The tuna bite has been slow offshore, but will hopefully improve very soon.

Throw in an extra bag of ice for August, pack plenty of cold drinks and let’s go fishing!

Capt. Don McPherson
251-752-0235
Getaway Charters
www.getawaycharters.com