All the snapper begin their annual spawn on the reef, which makes them ultra aggressive. 

Flag yellowtails - fish over 24 inches - are common.  The largest yellowtail caught on the SeaSquared in 2011 was landed on May 21 by Pepe Kirby from Fort Pierce FL.  The fish measured 26 inches and weighed six pounds.  A monster, when you consider the average yellowtail is 14 to 15 inches and about a pound and a half.

Mutton snapper appear in huge numbers on the reef and wrecks.  They're relatively easy to catch, as they too are quite hungry.  And, there are lots of big mangrove snapper on the reef, with some fish approaching six and seven pounds.

Check out some of the snapper catches aboard the SeaSquared. 

The first of May heralds the opening of grouper season.

Yippee!

If this winter is any indication, it will be an outstanding bite on the reef.  If you've fished with us, you know we catch grouper in the same areas as yellowtails.  It makes for a great day of varied fishing with delicious rewards.

Check out some of the grouper catches aboard SeaSquared Charters.

The annual dolphin run will be at its peak during April, May and June.

Judging from the wintertime early dolphin catches, the bite is beginning to shape up nicely.  I've already heard of a couple of fish in the 40-pound class coming back to the dock.

There has also been an extraordinary amount of wahoo, which is a great bi-catch while searching for mahi-mahi.

Check out some of the  dolphin and wahoo catches aboard SeaSquared Charters.

Another great sport fish - the permit - are commencing their yearly congregation on the Thunderbolt wreck and Seven Mile Bridge rubble.

One of the most sought after species we have in the Keys, permit round out a fine day of reef fishing.  And, after an hour of tugging on them, you'll need a good massage!

Check out some of the permit catches aboard SeaSquared Charters.