Key West Grouper – Fishing Adventures Florida Season 2 Episode 30

 

Key West Grouper Fishing with Captain Sergio

Key West grouper fishing delivers some of the most exciting bottom fishing opportunities in Florida, and this episode of Fishing Adventures Florida captures all the action. Join Captain Sergio Atanes alongside Ron Sparks and guests Rolando and Kyle as they head out into the pristine waters off Key West in search of prized grouper and yellowtail snapper. What started as a questionable weather day transformed into a brilliant fishing adventure, proving that persistence pays off when targeting these hard-fighting bottom dwellers.

Targeting Key West Grouper and Yellowtail

The day begins with the crew setting up for some serious bottom fishing action. Using a combination of chumming techniques and strategic bait presentation, the team works several productive spots around Key West’s productive fishing grounds. The Key West grouper bite starts almost immediately, with the first fish hitting the deck within moments of reaching the bottom. Captain Sergio and his guests employ short pumping motions and locked-down drags to battle these powerful fish up from the depths, a technique that proves essential when fighting grouper in strong currents. Throughout the day, the action remains consistent with multiple species coming over the rail. Red grouper and black grouper make up the bulk of the catch, with several specimens measuring well over the 20-inch minimum size limit. The crew also tangles with yellowtail snapper, including one trophy-sized specimen that stands out as the fish of the day. The combination of grouper fishing and yellowtail action keeps everyone on their toes, with rods bending constantly and fish boxes filling steadily.

Dealing with Challenging Conditions and Sharks

As with any serious Key West grouper expedition, the crew faces challenges beyond just landing fish. Strong currents created by the full moon make wreck fishing particularly difficult, forcing the anglers to adjust their weight and techniques constantly. Even more challenging are the ever-present sharks that patrol these productive waters. Several quality fish fall victim to opportunistic sharks on the way up, a frustrating but common occurrence when bottom fishing in South Florida. Despite losing a few nice catches to toothy predators, the crew maintains their spirits and keeps the baits in the water. Captain Kyle provides expert guidance throughout the trip, sharing invaluable tips about bait presentation, fighting techniques, and reading the conditions. His advice about keeping baits moving naturally with the chum line proves crucial for tempting wary yellowtail, whilst his coaching on proper grouper fighting methods helps ensure more fish make it to the gaff. The camaraderie amongst the crew shines through as they celebrate each catch and encourage one another through the inevitable challenges of offshore fishing.

An Unforgettable Key West Fishing Experience

By day’s end, the crew has amassed an impressive catch of keeper-sized grouper and quality yellowtail snapper. The highlight comes when Rolando battles a stunning black grouper up from the depths, its distinctive dark tail earning it the nickname “paintbrush” for the way it appears dipped in black paint. This beautiful specimen, measuring approximately 25 inches, provides the perfect photo opportunity and table fare for the evening. This episode showcases everything that makes Key West grouper fishing so special: explosive action, challenging conditions, stunning scenery, and the thrill of never knowing what might grab your bait next. Whether you’re an experienced angler looking to improve your grouper techniques or simply enjoy watching exciting fishing action unfold, this adventure delivers from start to finish. Watch as Captain Sergio Atanes and crew demonstrate proper bottom fishing methods whilst enjoying the spectacular fishing opportunities that only the Florida Keys can provide.