Epic 14-Hour Spring Offshore Adventure

Epic 14-Hour Spring Offshore Fishing Adventure

Trip Overview

Get ready for a wild ride on the high seas with Flying Fish Charters' 14-hour spring offshore fishing trip! From May through July, we're hitting peak season for some of the most exciting action you'll find on the water. We're talking non-stop fishing from sunup to sundown, with a mix of reef, wreck, and blue water action that'll keep even the most seasoned anglers on their toes. This isn't your average day of dropping lines – we're on a mission to put you on the fish, whether that means battling bruiser Amberjacks on the bottom or sight-casting to a cruising Mahi in the open ocean. Pack your sunscreen and bring your A-game, because this trip is all about maximizing your time on the water and filling the box with a variety of hard-fighting species.

What to Expect on the Water

We kick things off early, well before the sun peeks over the horizon. As we cruise out, you'll feel the anticipation building – today could be the day you land that fish of a lifetime. Our first stop usually hits some nearshore reefs and wrecks where we'll warm up on some Spanish Mackerel and maybe tangle with a few False Albacore. These speedsters will get your arms loose for the battles ahead. As we push further offshore, we'll hit some deeper structures where the big boys hang out. Here's where you might find yourself locked in a tug-of-war with a bulldogging Amberjack or a screaming run from a King Mackerel. But don't get too comfortable, because we're always on the move, scanning the horizon for birds, bait, or that telltale ripple on the surface that could signal a cruising Cobia or a pod of Mahi. When we hit the blue water, it's a whole new ballgame. We'll be looking for floating debris or weed lines that could be holding fish. This is where the light tackle really shines – nothing beats the thrill of watching a Mahi crash a topwater bait or seeing a Tuna crush a well-placed fly.

Techniques and Gear

On this trip, versatility is the name of the game. We'll be using a mix of techniques to target different species throughout the day. For bottom fishing, we'll drop heavy jigs or live baits to entice those reef dwellers. When we're running and gunning for pelagics, we might switch to trolling with spreader bars or daisy chains to cover more water. But the real excitement comes when we spot fish on the surface. That's when we break out the light spinning gear or fly rods for some heart-pounding sight fishing action. We provide all the necessary gear, from stout bottom rods to finesse spinning outfits, but if you've got a favorite setup you want to bring along, by all means! Just remember, these fish fight hard, so make sure your gear is up to the task. Don't forget to bring a camera – you're going to want proof of the monsters you'll be battling out here!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Spanish Mackerel: These sleek speedsters are often our first targets of the day. Known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps, Spanish Mackerel are a blast on light tackle. They typically show up in good numbers during the spring, providing fast action and tasty fillets. Look for them around bait schools near the surface, and be ready for explosive strikes on small jigs or spoons.

King Mackerel: The big cousin of the Spanish, King Mackerel or "Kings" are prized for their smoking runs and hefty size. These toothy predators can top 50 pounds, though most we encounter are in the 15-30 pound range. Kings love to hit fast-moving baits, so trolling or slow-jigging are effective techniques. When a King hits, hold on tight – their first run can strip a hundred yards of line in seconds!

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish: Perhaps the most beautiful fish in the ocean, Mahi (also called Dorado) are a favorite among offshore anglers. Their vibrant colors and acrobatic fights make them a top target. We often find them around floating debris or weed lines in blue water. Mahi are opportunistic feeders and will hit everything from live baits to artificials. The spring season can produce some genuinely big "slammers" over 20 pounds.

Greater Amberjack: If you're looking for a true test of strength, look no further than the Amberjack. These bruisers are found around deep wrecks and reefs, often in schools. When you hook up, be prepared for a slugfest – Amberjacks are known for their powerful runs back to the bottom. Jigging is a popular method, but live baits are hard to beat. The spring months can see some real giants in the 50-pound class.

Cobia: Often called "the man in the brown suit," Cobia are a prized catch known for their strong fights and excellent table fare. These curious fish often investigate anything floating on the surface, making them a perfect target for sight fishing. Spring is prime time for Cobia as they migrate along the coast. They're not picky eaters – live eels, jigs, or even a well-placed fly can entice a strike from these powerful fish.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, if you're serious about offshore fishing, this 14-hour spring trip is the real deal. We're talking about a full day of non-stop action, targeting some of the hardest fighting fish in the ocean. From the adrenaline rush of sight-casting to Mahi in the blue water to the arm-burning battle with a deep-water Amberjack, this trip has it all. And the best part? You never know what might show up – that's the magic of offshore fishing. So don't miss out on this chance to experience some of the best fishing the spring season has to offer. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so get on the phone and lock in your date now. Trust me, this is one fishing trip you'll be talking about for years to come. Let's get out there and put some bend in those rods!