Get ready for a serious day of fishing action with Papa Bear's Fishing Charters! This 8-hour private trip takes you way offshore where the big boys play. We're talking monster Mahi, acrobatic Sailfish, and hard-fighting Sharks. Plus, we'll hit some killer bottom spots for tasty Snapper and Grouper. With top-notch gear and an experienced crew, you're in for a day of non-stop action and fish-filled coolers.
We'll start the day early, loading up the boat with live bait and ice. As we cruise out to the deep blue, keep your eyes peeled for flying fish and maybe even some dolphins playing in our wake. Once we hit our spots, it's go time. We'll set up a spread of lines for trolling, then get you rigged up for some serious bottom fishing. The crew's always on hand to help with baiting hooks, handling fish, and making sure you're comfortable. Don't forget to take breaks to enjoy the complimentary snacks and drinks - staying hydrated is key out here!
On this trip, we're pulling out all the stops. We'll be trolling with a mix of artificial lures and live bait to entice those pelagic predators. When we mark some good structure on the bottom, we'll switch gears and drop live bait or jigs down deep. Expect to use heavy tackle and braided line - these fish don't mess around. The crew will show you the ropes on proper hook-setting and fighting techniques. Whether it's feeling that telltale 'thump' of a Grouper taking the bait or watching a Sailfish light up on the spread, you'll be hooked on offshore fishing in no time.
Mahi Mahi, or Dorado as they're sometimes called, are the jewels of the offshore world. These acrobatic fighters put on a show with their aerial leaps and powerful runs. They're most active in the warmer months, and we often find them near floating debris or weedlines. The best part? They're absolutely delicious on the grill.
Red Snapper are the prize of the Gulf, with their beautiful crimson color and fierce fight. We typically target these guys over rocky bottoms and reefs. They can grow to impressive sizes, with some monsters topping 30 pounds. The meat is firm, white, and perfect for a variety of recipes.
Black Grouper are the bruisers of the reef. These powerful fish will try to break you off in the structure, so you'll need quick reflexes and some muscle to turn their heads. We find them year-round, but they're especially active in the cooler months. Their sweet, flaky meat makes them a favorite for fish tacos.
Blackfin Tuna are the speedsters of the deep. These torpedo-shaped fish will make your reel scream as they peel off line. We often find them in schools, so when one hits, be ready for more action. They're most abundant in the fall and spring. Sushi lovers, take note - this is some of the best eating fish in the ocean.
Atlantic Sailfish are the crown jewels of sportfishing. These majestic billfish are known for their incredible speed and acrobatic displays. We typically catch and release these beauties, but the photo ops are priceless. Spring and fall are prime Sailfish seasons, but we can encounter them year-round.
Our offshore trips aren't just about filling the cooler (though we do plenty of that). It's about the whole experience - the anticipation as we set the spread, the adrenaline rush when a rod goes off, and the satisfaction of bringing a trophy fish to the boat. Our experienced crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and they're always happy to share tips and stories. Plus, with only 4 guests max, you'll get plenty of personalized attention and time on the rods. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time offshore, we'll make sure you have a day to remember.
Ready to get your offshore fix? Our 8-hour trip is the perfect blend of variety, action, and relaxation. Remember, your fishing license is included, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a camera for those trophy shots). Live bait is available for purchase if you want to up your game - $100 per dozen for goggle eyes or $30 and up for pilchards. Don't forget to take care of the crew with the customary 20% tip - they work hard to put you on the fish! So what are you waiting for? The big ones are calling, and Papa Bear's Fishing Charters is ready to take you where they live. Book now and get ready for a day of offshore action you'll be talking about for years to come!
Atlantic Sailfish are the sports cars of the ocean - sleek, fast, and showy. They average 6-8 feet long and put on quite a display when hooked. You'll find them in blue water from 100-300 feet deep, often following bait schools. Winter and early spring are prime seasons as they migrate through. Anglers prize them for their incredible aerial displays and blistering speed. To catch one, try slow-trolling live baits like goggle eyes or pilchards. A local tip: when a sailfish shows in the spread, free-spool your bait back to it. The fight is all about staying connected through their jumps and runs. It's pure excitement from hookup to release!
Black Grouper are built like tanks - big, powerful, and ready to rumble. Most run 2-3 feet long but can top 100 pounds. You'll find them near reefs, wrecks and ledges in 30-300 feet of water. They feed best in cooler months. Anglers love the challenge of keeping these brutes from diving back to their rocky lairs. For the best shot, use heavy gear with 80-pound braid and big circle hooks. Live bait like pinfish or blue runners works great. A local tip: when you feel that first thump, reel like crazy to get them away from the bottom. Once hooked, it's a tug-of-war all the way up. The meat is fantastic too - firm, white, and mild.
Blackfin Tuna may be small for a tuna, maxing out around 40 pounds, but they pack a punch. You'll find them in warm offshore waters, often near dropoffs or floating debris. They feed actively year-round but bite best in fall and winter here. Anglers love their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. Plus, the meat is top-notch for sashimi. To catch 'em, try trolling small lures or live bait around bait schools. A local trick: if you see them busting on the surface, cast metal jigs and retrieve fast - they can't resist. Just hang on tight when they bite - these little rockets will smoke your drag!
Mahi Mahi are colorful, fast-growing fish that put up an awesome fight. They typically range from 15-30 pounds but can get much bigger. You'll find them in warm offshore waters near floating debris or weed lines. They're surface feeders, so keep an eye out for birds working bait schools. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Anglers love Mahi for their acrobatic leaps and delicious meat. To land one, try trolling with ballyhoo or squid skipping across the surface - that really gets them fired up. Once hooked, be ready for some airborne action. A local tip: if you spot a school, keep one hooked fish in the water to hold the others nearby. Makes for some exciting fishing when you can get multiple hookups at once.
Red Snapper are prized for their firm white meat and hard-fighting nature. Adults typically run 1-2 feet long and hang around reefs and wrecks in 60-300 feet of water. They bite best in warmer months when the water's above 60°F. Anglers target them for the tasty fillets and the thrill of muscling one up from the depths. To improve your odds, use heavy tackle and lower your bait right to the bottom. Fresh cut bait like cigar minnows works great. A local trick is to motor upcurrent of a spot, then drift back over it - lets you cover more area. Just watch out for their sharp teeth when unhooking!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: 454 crusaders
Maximum Cruising Speed: 22
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 170