Monday, August 23, 2010
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Vacation Rental Becoming the Norm for Family Summer Vacations
While many travel companies have been challenged to survive during the hard times over the last few years, one area of the Travel Industry has seen an explosion: By Owner Vacation Rentals are quickly becoming the accommodation for couples and families looking to get away.
According to reported data, somewhere in the range of fifty percent of vacationers said that they expect to book a vacation rental condo or villa during the next 12 months. Add to that, nearly one quarter of Vacation Travelers who were surveyed had already stayed in one, and 33% of owners reported that in 2009 they had received more bookings.
It's not difficult to understand why. Vacation Rentals by Owner have a lot to offer. And when it comes to affordable vacations, vacation rentals are hard to beat. With a vacation rental a family will get a spacious living room, one or more bedrooms, a fully furnished dining and cooking area, and often private balcony and sometimes a pool and jacuzzi.
Families can find whatever suits their needs, from a studio condo to a six-bedroom home with grounds and a pool. Without doubt, there's a Ideal Vacation Rental just for you.
Saving money for other things with a vacation rental by owner.
No matter what the size of your party, a unit with several bedrooms and bathrooms allows you to split the overall lodging costs with other friends or family members. And the savings from just eating in a few days really adds up.
There's also more convenience when you have your own kitchen. You never have to rush to get to the breakfast buffet before it closes. You can sleep in, and have your lunch out seaside for a lot less than you'd pay in a hotel restaurant. Every Rental includes a coffee maker. Many even have espresso machines and other amenities like egg poachers.
Your kitchen will also include all the tools you'll need to make lunches, midday snacks, or a midnight snack. In Florida destinations, blenders are a must for margaritas, rum runners and other beachy beverages.
Know the minimums. Many rentals do not have flexibility in rental terms, some are three night minimum rentals but the majority are for seven night minimums. Because of the 7 day minimum, many owners select one day as the turnover day usually on the weekend. When they're not fully booked, you may be able to stay fewer nights or check in mid week, this is really a matter of convenience and planning for the owner. Where there's lots of competition you'll find more flexible terms.
Usually a minimal deposit of is required to hold the unit, then the balance due one or two months before your trip. You may also have to pay a security deposit, which is usually refundable.
Every owner has different guidelines but most owners will return a deposit if they can rebook the unit if you cancel. But if they can't, you'll probably be out your deposit. If it's large, consider buying travel insurance as protection.
For your next trip, look into staying in a vacation rental instead of a hotel. You'll likely be happy you did.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The author is the Founder and Operating Manager of Florida Gulf Vacation LLC which offers Affordable Beach Rentals by owner along the Florida Gulf Coast from the Keys to St Pete Beach up to the Panhandle beaches as well as Disney Rentals in the Kissimmee Orlando area
According to reported data, somewhere in the range of fifty percent of vacationers said that they expect to book a vacation rental condo or villa during the next 12 months. Add to that, nearly one quarter of Vacation Travelers who were surveyed had already stayed in one, and 33% of owners reported that in 2009 they had received more bookings.
It's not difficult to understand why. Vacation Rentals by Owner have a lot to offer. And when it comes to affordable vacations, vacation rentals are hard to beat. With a vacation rental a family will get a spacious living room, one or more bedrooms, a fully furnished dining and cooking area, and often private balcony and sometimes a pool and jacuzzi.
Families can find whatever suits their needs, from a studio condo to a six-bedroom home with grounds and a pool. Without doubt, there's a Ideal Vacation Rental just for you.
Saving money for other things with a vacation rental by owner.
No matter what the size of your party, a unit with several bedrooms and bathrooms allows you to split the overall lodging costs with other friends or family members. And the savings from just eating in a few days really adds up.
There's also more convenience when you have your own kitchen. You never have to rush to get to the breakfast buffet before it closes. You can sleep in, and have your lunch out seaside for a lot less than you'd pay in a hotel restaurant. Every Rental includes a coffee maker. Many even have espresso machines and other amenities like egg poachers.
Your kitchen will also include all the tools you'll need to make lunches, midday snacks, or a midnight snack. In Florida destinations, blenders are a must for margaritas, rum runners and other beachy beverages.
Know the minimums. Many rentals do not have flexibility in rental terms, some are three night minimum rentals but the majority are for seven night minimums. Because of the 7 day minimum, many owners select one day as the turnover day usually on the weekend. When they're not fully booked, you may be able to stay fewer nights or check in mid week, this is really a matter of convenience and planning for the owner. Where there's lots of competition you'll find more flexible terms.
Usually a minimal deposit of is required to hold the unit, then the balance due one or two months before your trip. You may also have to pay a security deposit, which is usually refundable.
Every owner has different guidelines but most owners will return a deposit if they can rebook the unit if you cancel. But if they can't, you'll probably be out your deposit. If it's large, consider buying travel insurance as protection.
For your next trip, look into staying in a vacation rental instead of a hotel. You'll likely be happy you did.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The author is the Founder and Operating Manager of Florida Gulf Vacation LLC which offers Affordable Beach Rentals by owner along the Florida Gulf Coast from the Keys to St Pete Beach up to the Panhandle beaches as well as Disney Rentals in the Kissimmee Orlando area
Monday, July 12, 2010
Take a moment to think of cities whose name alone conjures up images of sun soaked beaches, tantalizing nightlife and some of the most exciting theme parks known to man. More likely than not, two of Florida's foremost leisure destinations - Miami and Orlando - stand out prominently in your mind. The former was tied with Washington D.C. for fourth place in Forbes' list of America's Most Entertaining Cities (2009). Not surprisingly, Orlando and Tampa were well represented in Forbes' list of the Top 25 Most Visited Tourist Destinations in America(2009), with Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Universal Orlando Resort/Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay all making the cut. Even West Palm Beach, known for its historic neighborhoods and lively festivals, has been cited as one of the country's best places to live and work. Has this whet your appetite for an affordable vacation in the Sunshine State this year? If so, heed the tips below to savor the best of sultry Florida without putting a dent in your bank account.
1. Book early!
If you're a price-conscious traveler, it's definitely in your best interest to book as many months in advance of your trip as possible. The travel industry has seen a marked shift in a year's time: Whereas travelers could afford to wait until the last minute to book the lowest rates on accommodations in 2009, they are now being saddled with higher rates closer to check-in. Though the internet might seem like the best option for finding the lowest rates, you can lock in even bigger savings by picking up the phone. For example, by calling toll-free call centers, travelers can take advantage of unpublished rates typically 10-25% and as much as 50% lower than those listed online. A wealth of hotel deals are up for grabs in properties including the Walt Disney World Swan Resort in Orlando, the Majestic Hotel South Beach in Miami, Sunset Vistas Beachfront Suites in Tampa and The Bradley Park Hotel in West Palm Beach.
2. Complimentary is key.
I think we'd all agree that while cheap is good, free sounds a lot better. Orlando properties including the Regal Sun Resort, Royal Plaza Hotel and Sheraton Vistana Villages offer free internet access plus complimentary shuttle service to all four Walt Disney World theme parks. If you're traveling with kids, you'll be save a bundle on food costs thanks to Kids Eat Free programs offered by the Regal Sun Resort, Royal Plaza Hotel, Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista, and other select hotels. If the hotel doesn't carry an entertainment book, you might be able to snag one at a pit stop convenience store. These handy books are chock full of restaurant coupons and convenient discounts on Florida attractions ranging from the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa to Gatorland in Orlando. If you'd rather scour the internet for bargains, try sites like orlandocoupons.com.
3. Purchase theme park tickets early and online.
You'll no doubt save time and money by purchasing park passes online before arrival. For example, by purchasing Universal Orlando tickets online, you can save $10 off the gate price on all multi-day tickets as well as receive a coupon book with up to $150 in savings with any multi-day park-to-park ticket purchase. Here's an unbeatable deal for Tampa-bound travelers: Florida residents with a 2010 Busch Gardens Fun Card need only pay less than the cost of a 1 day visit ($69.95) to get into Busch Gardens free for the rest of the year. Walt Disney World also offers discount programs for Florida residents, including 4 Days for $99 with the 4 Day Dream Pass. Even if you're not a Florida resident, you can lock in substantial savings with a Walt Disney World Pass, which allows year-round, unlimited admission to all 4 Disney parks plus discounts on dining, sports and recreation, tours and much more.
4. Take advantage of membership discount programs and Twitter deals.
If you're a member of any special organization that offers discounts, you can enjoy a wealth of membership benefits including reduced hotel rates. By simply showing your card, you can save on everything from car rentals and apparel to sports and dining. Plus, members are eligible for discounted admission rates at most theme parks. For example, you could save $3 on regular all-day admission to Adventure Island in Tampa, Busch Gardens, SeaWorld Orlando and Wet 'n Wild. In addition, by following your favorite travel companies on Twitter, you can gain access to exclusive travel deals available only for a limited time.
5. Enjoy a bevy of free Florida sites and attractions.
Who says traveling to Florida has to be all about roller coasters and Mickey Mouse? Travelers can frequent some of the state's most popular sites and attractions - starting with its unspoiled beaches - without having to shell out a dime. The state is also replete with verdant parks of varying sizes - from Tropical Park in Miami to Big Tree Park in Orlando - where you can enjoy such family-friendly leisure activities as fishing, hiking, bike riding and canoeing.
While the temperature in Florida is on the rise, your travel expenses don't have to be. With a little planning, a Florida vacation could wind up being much more affordable than you'd expect. So head for the Sunshine State and have a whale of a time - just don't forget to bring the sunscreen along!
--
Florida Gulf Vacation
Bringing Florida Gulf Coast Travelers and Owners together on the web since 2004
www.FloridaGulfVacation.com
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
A Beach For Each - Fort Myers / Sanibel
Whether it's a family vacation or a romantic retreat, the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel are great destinations.
Sparkling blue waters, sugar-white sand and sun-kissed skies... The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel rival those of any Caribbean isle. Come, build castles in the sand, find treasures of the sea; explore exotic flora and fauna in our alluring paradise. Here you'll discover the world's largest concentration of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, as well as manatees, shore birds and loggerhead turtles. Windsurf, parasail, kayak or fish; stroll hand-in-hand on our sun-swept shores. Whether you want a quiet respite with your loved ones or an action-packed adventure, The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel has a beach for each.Family Fun
Gulfside City Park: This is one cool spot for picnicking, swimming safely and shelling 'til you siesta. Stroll the rustic boardwalk or hike off the beach along the bike path to the historic pioneer cemetery. Also known as Algiers Beach, this pretty park is on Sanibel Island.
Tarpon Bay Beach: Swimming, walking and playing volleyball are some of the most popular pastimes at this beautiful beach on Sanibel; it features high sands and plenty of seashells.
Fort Myers Beach: Miles of gleaming white sand, gentle sloping shoreline, restaurants, cafes, shopping and recreational activities galore render this famous beach a family favorite. Rent a boat, parasail, fish, swim, shop or soak up some rays. These sprawling sands are located in the town of Fort Myers Beach.
Spectacular Shelling
Sanibel, Captiva and Cayo Costa Islands: Conchs, whelks, sand dollars and rare lettered olives are among the mounds of mollusks you'll see on these islands in the sun. Go ahead and do the "Sanibel Stoop" and the "Captiva Crouch," the positions you're likely to take when presented with this area's compelling shelling. Sanibel is also home to the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, featuring shells from all over the world. Cayo Costa is a state park and one of the largest uninhabited barrier islands in Florida. Accessible only by boat, it's fringed with sea oats, sand dunes, miles of white-sand beach and a kaleidoscope of seashells. Scoop them up, swim, snorkel, fish or camp in this wilderness wonderland.
Getting to Captiva Beach is a romantic adventure in itself; quaint restaurants shaded by tropical foliage, cozy bed & breakfasts and colorful boutiques dot the path to seductive seclusion, breathtaking sunsets and romance.
Romantic Retreats
Lovers Key: Many couples have been known to surrender to the romance of this aptly named hideaway; listen carefully and you might hear wedding bells chime from the turn-of-the-century-style gazebo on the beach. Nature lovers delight in kayaking The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail in Estero Bay to watch dolphins playfully leap and seabirds plunge for dinner.
Cayo Costa, Captiva, Chino Island and Big Hickory Island: Pack a picnic basket, rent a boat and hop to one of these islands, where love is definitely in the air, in the water and on the beaches. Getting to Captiva Beach is a romantic adventure in itself; quaint restaurants shaded by tropical foliage, cozy bed & breakfasts and colorful boutiques dot the path to seductive seclusion, breathtaking sunsets and romance.
Where the Action Is
Lighthouse Beach: Located on Sanibel Island's southern tip, this beach is picture-perfect for those who prefer less strenuous sports. Swim, fish from the pier, stroll, shell or sail; windsurfing is also available.
Sanibel: Follow the wooded nature trail to the base of the historic Sanibel Lighthouse and its T-shaped fishing pier. Take a bicycle ride through Old Town, one of the island's earliest settlements located at the end of the island. You'll find Sanibel is full of surprises.
Sanibel Causeway: Windsurfers rule at Sanibel Causeway, a most popular spot for this thrilling sport. Don't own a board? Renting one is easy. Boaters enjoy the convenience of launching small boats and personal watercrafts from ramps at either end of the causeway, while fisherman find luck casting into the surf or from bridge abutments.
Boca Grande Lighthouse Park: Although swimming here is not recommended because of strong currents, conditions are excellent for windsurfing, sailing and especially sport fishing in the Boca Grande Pass.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Planning your Summer Vacation should start Now!
Planning your Summer Vacation should start Now!
If it is time to choose your vacation destination and accommodation in your late spring vacation destination! So it is time for your vacation planning. Florida is the most popular destination among international travelers. People from distant countries as well as US citizens are attracted by Florida’s natural beauty.
The state of Florida is also known as the sunshine state due to a great quantity of sunny days per year. That’s why the state has two tourist’ seasons and various travelers come to Florida almost all year round. To take the most of your Florida Getaway choose the best accommodation for you and your family or friends. The state has a wide choice of various cabins, villas, houses, etc.
The majority of vacationers prefer to stay in a short term rental. The range of such rentals is wide, the rates are affordable, the location of the rentals is very convenient. Moreover, they are kept in a great condition and provide with everything you may need. That is a extensive range of family entertainment options to keep you entertained, a fully-equipped kitchen, a backyard and a private swimming pool.
You can lease out a villa with an easy access to the beach, or a house located not far from the places and sights you want to visit. A great deal of people come to Florida to enjoy it’s nature and weather. As a rule, such vacationers look for waterfront vacation rentals which are located along the coastline. Such vacation rentals have a splendid ocean view and provide with incredibly relaxing atmosphere. Florida beaches are well equipped and there are a lot of land and water activities provided.
You can find such vacation rentals via the owner directly, or through an agency. To find the rental quickly and hassle-free, define your resources, the location, your needs and preferences. There are more popular Florida places as well as less known ones. It is better not to be specific to any location, because you will be provided with a wider choice.
If you want to save on your vacation you can choose a last minute deal. Of course, this may offer a better deal if available. Owners can have cancellations can leave rentals available, and can be offered at a substantial discount. The owners of such properties do not want their property to stay empty, that’s why you can find great deals and save money!
Looking for a reliable Website that can help you with Panhandle vacation rentals? Start with a visit this site - Florida Gulf Vacation. Here you will be able to locate the cheapest Florida Rentals and choose the deal that ideally fits your needs.
Locating a Florida Rental has never been as easy as it is now.Start planning your vacation today!
Plan your next Fun Filled Florida Vacation today!
Panhandle Beach Vacations Start Here!
Panama City Beach offers all the fun filled activities to meet your needs!
If it is time to choose your vacation destination and accommodation in your late spring vacation destination! So it is time for your vacation planning. Florida is the most popular destination among international travelers. People from distant countries as well as US citizens are attracted by Florida’s natural beauty.
The state of Florida is also known as the sunshine state due to a great quantity of sunny days per year. That’s why the state has two tourist’ seasons and various travelers come to Florida almost all year round. To take the most of your Florida Getaway choose the best accommodation for you and your family or friends. The state has a wide choice of various cabins, villas, houses, etc.
The majority of vacationers prefer to stay in a short term rental. The range of such rentals is wide, the rates are affordable, the location of the rentals is very convenient. Moreover, they are kept in a great condition and provide with everything you may need. That is a extensive range of family entertainment options to keep you entertained, a fully-equipped kitchen, a backyard and a private swimming pool.
You can lease out a villa with an easy access to the beach, or a house located not far from the places and sights you want to visit. A great deal of people come to Florida to enjoy it’s nature and weather. As a rule, such vacationers look for waterfront vacation rentals which are located along the coastline. Such vacation rentals have a splendid ocean view and provide with incredibly relaxing atmosphere. Florida beaches are well equipped and there are a lot of land and water activities provided.
You can find such vacation rentals via the owner directly, or through an agency. To find the rental quickly and hassle-free, define your resources, the location, your needs and preferences. There are more popular Florida places as well as less known ones. It is better not to be specific to any location, because you will be provided with a wider choice.
If you want to save on your vacation you can choose a last minute deal. Of course, this may offer a better deal if available. Owners can have cancellations can leave rentals available, and can be offered at a substantial discount. The owners of such properties do not want their property to stay empty, that’s why you can find great deals and save money!
Looking for a reliable Website that can help you with Panhandle vacation rentals? Start with a visit this site - Florida Gulf Vacation. Here you will be able to locate the cheapest Florida Rentals and choose the deal that ideally fits your needs.
Locating a Florida Rental has never been as easy as it is now.Start planning your vacation today!
Plan your next Fun Filled Florida Vacation today!
Panhandle Beach Vacations Start Here!
Panama City Beach offers all the fun filled activities to meet your needs!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Florida Vacation Rental
Theta Waves
Location: South Walton - Dune Allen, Florida
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 3
Rental From: $250 per night
Minimum: 1 nights
See all our Florida Vacation Rentals
Location: South Walton - Dune Allen, Florida
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 3
Rental From: $250 per night
Minimum: 1 nights
See all our Florida Vacation Rentals
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Planning your Family Vacation should start Now!
If it is time to choose your vacation deal and properties in your summer vacation destination! So it may be time for some vacation planning. Florida has been the most popular destination among national travelers. People from distant countries as well as US citizens are attracted by Florida’s plethora of attractions.
The state of Florida is also known as an important sunshine state due to a great quantity of sunny days per year. That’s why the state has two tourist’ seasons and various travelers come to Florida almost all year round. To take the most of your Florida vacation choose the best accommodation for you and your family or friends. The state has a wide choice of various chalets, villas, houses, etc.
The majority of vacationers prefer to stay in a rental. The range of such rentals is wide, the rates are affordable, the location of the rentals is very convenient. Moreover, they are kept in a amazing condition and provide with everything you may need. That is a wide range of family entertainment options to keep you entertained, a fully-equipped kitchen, a backyard and a private swimming pool.
You can lease out a villa with an easy access to the beach, or a house located not far from the places and sights you want to visit. A great deal of people come to Florida to enjoy it’s nature and weather. As a rule, such vacationers look for waterfront vacation rentals which are located along the coastline. Such vacation rentals have a splendid ocean view and provide with incredibly relaxing atmosphere. Florida beaches are well equipped and there are a lot of land and water activities provided.
You can find such vacation rentals via the owner directly, or through an agency. To find the rental quickly and hassle-free, define your budget, the location, your needs and preferences. There are more popular Florida places as well as less known ones. It is better not to be specific to any location, because you will be provided with a wider choice.
If you want to save on your vacation you can choose a last minute deal. For instance, this may offer a better deal if you need to save a little cash. There are rentals cancellations can leave rentals empty, and could be offered at a great discount. The owners of these rentals do not want their vacation rentals to stay empty, that’s where you can find great deals and save money!
Looking for a reliable company that can help you with Indian Shores vacation rentals? Then visit this site - Florida Gulf Vacation. Here you will be able to locate the most affordable Vacation Rentals and choose the location that ideally suits your needs.
Locating a vacation rental has never been easier as it is today.Begin your next Florida Vacation plan today!
Plan your next Fun Filled Florida Vacation today!
Panhandle Beach Vacations Start Here!
Panama City Beach offers all the fun filled activities to meet your needs!
Monday, March 29, 2010
St George Island Vacation Rentals
Florida Gulf Vacation has added the following GREAT St George Island Vacation Rentals:
| Third Wish Property Id: GPst1 St George Island | |||
 | Property Info: 3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 1-1 Style: Beach View 2.5 Bathrooms | ||
| Description: THIRD WISH ST GEORGE ISLAND RENTAL 3 Bedroom, 2 full, two 1/2 Bath | | ||
| My Fair Lady Property Id: MFLsg1 St George Island | |||
 | Property Info: 3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 1-6 Style: BeachFront 3.5 Bathrooms | ||
| Description: MY FAIR LADY ST GEORGE ISLAND RENTAL 3 Bedroom, 3.5 full, Sleeps 6 | | ||
| KINGS COURT Property Id: KCsg1 St George Island | ||
 | Property Info: 3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 1-6 Style: BeachFront 3.5 Bathrooms | |
| Description: KINGS COURT ST GEORGE ISLAND RENTAL 3 Bedroom, 3.5 full, Sleeps 6 | ||
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Florida Keys - Vacation Rentals by Owner
Florida Gulf Vacation LLC, the vacation rental marketing firm that has been getting the attention of vacation rental owners and travelers all up and down the west Gulf Coast of Florida today launched a sister website Florida Keys Vacation Rentals By Owner dedicated solely to the Vacation Rental owners in the Florida Keys.
Florida Keys Vacation Rental By Owner provides travelers with Featured Vacation rentals exclusively in the Florida Keys!
Check it out today!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Saturday, October 31, 2009
What's Biting in the Keys - Examiner
The first cold front to hit the Florida Keys has shuffled the deck and given the fishing a brand new hand.
In some areas, the water temperatures have dropped as much as ten degrees. This is most dramatic in the gulf and bay, where fish that had been lethargic are recharged and feeding aggressively. There is also a surge of fish fleeing the areas in search of the warmer Atlantic waters.
Sailfish are beginning to make an appearance
On the reef off Marathon, the sailfish have been seen spraying ballyhoo. Captains who choose to fish live bait are catching the sailfish by drifting in the 100- to 200-foot depths. This is just the beginning of sailfish season as this fishing intensifies with each passing cold front,
If the sails are not cooperating, try dropping on the deeper wrecks and artificial reefs. These areas are producing good size mutton snapper in the five- to ten-pound range. The most productive baits are pilchards, pinfish and ballyhoo.
Greater amberjack fishing is still open in Atlantic waters
Unexpectedly and without notice, the National Marine Fisheries Service has closed the greater amberjack fishery in Gulf of Mexico federal waters from October 24 through December 31. They claim an established annual recreational harvest quota has been met.
However, amberjack fishing is open and thriving in the Atlantic waters of the Florida Keys. So, if you’re visiting from the Gulf Coast and have a hankering for amberjack, call one of the local Florida Keys charter captains to get in on the action.
Amberjack provide excellent sport and are prime for the smoker. Click here for a delicious recipe for smoked fish dip.
You just never know what you may catch while fishing for amberjack on the wrecks of the Florida Keys. Anglers are often granted real prizes in the form of gag grouper, porgy, mutton snapper and more delicious table fare.
Yellowtails and more on the reef
Yellowtailing on the reef has been consistent with a good mix of sizes making their way to the boat. Most captains start their search for the ‘tails in 35 to 40 feet of water and work deeper until the schools pop up on their fish finders. Abundant chum and a variety of baits are key.
While on the reef, don’t neglect to put a bait near the bottom. Now that the water temperatures are cooling, the grouper are responding better to live bait offerings.
The patch reefs are absolutely alive with all manner of fish. All three major mackerel species are present and taking live ballyhoo with abandon. They are also snatching live pilchards that are swimming on the surface of the chum slick.
Large mangrove snapper are showing as well as a fair share of good size muttons in the five- to ten-pound class. There are also reports of red grouper on the patches along with some nice gags and blacks.
Snapper and hogfish in Florida Bay
The cooler Florida Bay waters have pushed the hogfish onto the patch reefs. They respond well to shrimp, either dead or alive. You may also encounter a few porgy, which are extremely tasty with delicate white meat similar to the hogs.
The bay and gulf have been the go-to spots for many Captains with the recent winds. The mangrove bite in Florida Bay is almost too easy with limit catches the norm. A suggestion is to self-impose a size limit larger than what the regulations specify. This gives you more fishing time, which is really why you’re out there in the first place! You may also pick up Spanish and cero mackerel in the bay waters.
Grouper now – cobia soon – on the gulf wrecks
The Gulf of Mexico wrecks and ledges are offering a very good mangrove bite but the real player has been the gag grouper. A fair number of keepers have been reported along with some keeper red grouper.
The cobia are showing with more regularity, although most are still undersize. This fishery will improve as the larger cobes escape the cooler northern waters. Don’t forget the great catch-and-release fishing for goliath grouper and shark that is there for the taking year ‘round.
In some areas, the water temperatures have dropped as much as ten degrees. This is most dramatic in the gulf and bay, where fish that had been lethargic are recharged and feeding aggressively. There is also a surge of fish fleeing the areas in search of the warmer Atlantic waters.
Sailfish are beginning to make an appearance
On the reef off Marathon, the sailfish have been seen spraying ballyhoo. Captains who choose to fish live bait are catching the sailfish by drifting in the 100- to 200-foot depths. This is just the beginning of sailfish season as this fishing intensifies with each passing cold front,
If the sails are not cooperating, try dropping on the deeper wrecks and artificial reefs. These areas are producing good size mutton snapper in the five- to ten-pound range. The most productive baits are pilchards, pinfish and ballyhoo.
Greater amberjack fishing is still open in Atlantic waters
Unexpectedly and without notice, the National Marine Fisheries Service has closed the greater amberjack fishery in Gulf of Mexico federal waters from October 24 through December 31. They claim an established annual recreational harvest quota has been met.
However, amberjack fishing is open and thriving in the Atlantic waters of the Florida Keys. So, if you’re visiting from the Gulf Coast and have a hankering for amberjack, call one of the local Florida Keys charter captains to get in on the action.
Amberjack provide excellent sport and are prime for the smoker. Click here for a delicious recipe for smoked fish dip.
You just never know what you may catch while fishing for amberjack on the wrecks of the Florida Keys. Anglers are often granted real prizes in the form of gag grouper, porgy, mutton snapper and more delicious table fare.
Yellowtails and more on the reef
Yellowtailing on the reef has been consistent with a good mix of sizes making their way to the boat. Most captains start their search for the ‘tails in 35 to 40 feet of water and work deeper until the schools pop up on their fish finders. Abundant chum and a variety of baits are key.
While on the reef, don’t neglect to put a bait near the bottom. Now that the water temperatures are cooling, the grouper are responding better to live bait offerings.
The patch reefs are absolutely alive with all manner of fish. All three major mackerel species are present and taking live ballyhoo with abandon. They are also snatching live pilchards that are swimming on the surface of the chum slick.
Large mangrove snapper are showing as well as a fair share of good size muttons in the five- to ten-pound class. There are also reports of red grouper on the patches along with some nice gags and blacks.
Snapper and hogfish in Florida Bay
The cooler Florida Bay waters have pushed the hogfish onto the patch reefs. They respond well to shrimp, either dead or alive. You may also encounter a few porgy, which are extremely tasty with delicate white meat similar to the hogs.
The bay and gulf have been the go-to spots for many Captains with the recent winds. The mangrove bite in Florida Bay is almost too easy with limit catches the norm. A suggestion is to self-impose a size limit larger than what the regulations specify. This gives you more fishing time, which is really why you’re out there in the first place! You may also pick up Spanish and cero mackerel in the bay waters.
Grouper now – cobia soon – on the gulf wrecks
The Gulf of Mexico wrecks and ledges are offering a very good mangrove bite but the real player has been the gag grouper. A fair number of keepers have been reported along with some keeper red grouper.
The cobia are showing with more regularity, although most are still undersize. This fishery will improve as the larger cobes escape the cooler northern waters. Don’t forget the great catch-and-release fishing for goliath grouper and shark that is there for the taking year ‘round.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)