The Daily Catch | Fishing Report – January 2025

As we welcome a new year, January has brought its fair share of challenges for offshore anglers. With frequent cold fronts and strong winds, finding good weather windows has been tricky. However, when the wind has settled and the seas have calmed, the fishing has been nothing short of rewarding!

This month has been especially exciting with the reopening of red grouper and lane snapper seasons on January 1st, offering fresh opportunities for those looking to stock up on delicious reef fish. Meanwhile, red snapper season officially closed on December 31st, but we’re already looking forward to its projected reopening on June 1st. While the exact season length is still uncertain, it’s a date worth marking on your calendars.

Here’s a breakdown of what we’ve been catching on our recent trips:

Short Trips (4-6 Hours)

For those opting for shorter outings, the reefs have been teeming with life. Grey snapper and mangrove snapper have been reliable targets, providing steady action and plenty of excitement for anglers of all experience levels. We’ve also encountered numerous short red grouper. While these aren’t quite keeper size yet, it’s encouraging to see so many juveniles, signaling a promising future for the species.

One standout this month has been the exceptional gag grouper bite. While gags are catch-and-release only right now, the thrill of hooking into these hard-fighting fish has been a highlight for many of our guests. It’s always a treat to see their powerful strikes and feel the fight they bring to the rod.

Longer Trips (8-12 Hours)

On our longer 8-12 hour trips, the fishing has been just as exciting. Red grouper and lane snapper have taken center stage, with plenty of action to keep the coolers filling up. The reopening of these seasons has been a welcome change, and we’ve been capitalizing on every opportunity to target these delicious fish.

Mangrove snapper have been abundant as well, with their aggressive bites keeping anglers on their toes. For those willing to put in the effort, hogfish have also been showing up. These prized fish are not only a challenge to catch but are also some of the best-tasting fish in the Gulf.

Looking Ahead

Although red snapper season is closed for now, we’re already preparing for its projected reopening on June 1st. While the exact season length hasn’t been announced yet, we’re hopeful for a robust opportunity to target these iconic fish when the time comes. In the meantime, there’s no shortage of exciting fishing opportunities to keep you busy!

Tips for January Fishing

• Timing is Key: With windy weather being a common theme this month, planning your trip around calmer conditions is essential. Be sure to check the forecast or give us a call for advice on the best days to head out.
• Layer Up: With chilly mornings and cooler water temperatures, dressing in layers will keep you comfortable throughout the day. Don’t forget gloves and a warm hat!
• Be Versatile: From snapper to grouper to hogfish, January offers a diverse range of species. Come prepared to try different techniques and target a variety of fish.

Book Your Adventure Today!

Start 2025 off right with a memorable fishing trip! Whether you’re looking for a half-day adventure or a full-day offshore excursion, we are here to make your trip unforgettable. Click HERE to book your trip now, or call us at 727-496-3474 to secure your spot today!