I’ve been on a few dives this year so far and all I can say is WOW! Red snapper are everywhere, and they are huge! It pains me to say it but, I think the crazy, over-regulated snapper seasons we’ve had over the last several years are working to increase snapper sizes.
This month we should start seeing the water temp continuing to come up maybe into the mid- to upper-70s. Visibility should be less, but still good enough to spearfish in the 20- to 30-foot range. The weather is normally a little crazy in May and that will affect temps and vis more than anything else. Going diving the day after a bad storm, you should expect poor vis and cooler water but it should get better in just a few days. May is the month that most people start there dive season, so expect a lot more dive boats on the normal dive wrecks, like the Strength, Red Sea, Span 12, Black Bart, and Span 14. If you don’t want a dive boat to come up to you and drop anchor, then stay away from these spots. From watching the behavior of the fish so far this year, they are not scared of you, so get out there as soon the season opens before they become wary again.
Remember, even though the mornings are cool and you don’t feel like you need sunblock…you still do. Also remember to study up on your fish size and bag limits.
As always, Plan your Dive and Dive your Plan.
Thanks for reading.
CAPT. JAMES TEW
Kitchen Pass Dive & Fishing Charters
850-896-6476