Winter Fishing in Florida and Around St Petersburg

by Pablo Koch-Schick

During the four seasons, there are various ways to fish in St Petersburg, Florida. At Reel Coquina, we offer deep-sea fishing tours during the winter. Here is all you need to know about our winter deep-sea fishing charter.

A man standing on a boat holding a tuna fish, with fishing rods and the ocean in the background, showcasing a successful winter fishing trip in St. Pete, Florida.

What is Deep Sea Fishing in St Petersburg, Florida?

Deep-sea fishing is a fishing method used to catch large, usually saltwater fish species such snappers, groupers, tuna, mahi-mahi and so on. It is called deep-sea fishing because the fish are caught in deep waters - usually at least 50ft which on the west central gulf coast is about an average of 10 miles offshore. The furthest Reel Coquina usually takes their clients is 65 miles offshore 185ft to 200ft depths.

You will need an experienced captain but also a well-maintained boat that can handle some rough waters as deep-sea fishing is done far out at sea, where you might have to endure stronger winds and swells. Check out our professional fishing gear and crew! 

Deep-sea fishing is a sport that both beginners and experienced anglers can enjoy. It is also a way to catch fish that are generally unavailable due to their habitat being in deep waters.

Which Fish Can you Catch during a Deep-Sea Fishing Charter in Winter around St Petersburg?

Fish have different size ranges based on the area you are fishing and the season. St Petersburg, where you would deep-sea fish with Reel Coquina, is a popular destination for fishing as it features a variety of fish species that are easily found in the Gulf of Mexico.

Some of the most popular deep-sea species during winter are:

snapper, grouper, king mackerel, amberjack, tuna, cobia, hogfish and wahoo.

The deep-sea fishing season in St Petersburg, Florida, runs from October to May, with the best months to go fishing being around February.

Be ready to see all sorts of weird and wonderful things!

A man sitting on a boat holding a large hogfish, with the ocean in the background, dressed in fishing gear and a hooded jacket.

When is Winter Fishing in Florida?

In Florida, winter starts at the end of November and lasts until mid-March. Here, we define winter as "when it's not summer.” The average temperature is around 50-75 Fahrenheit.

Winter is considered the best time to deep-sea fish in Florida because of its cooler water temperatures, especially from January to March. The waters are around 65 Fahrenheit nearshore and 70-75 Fahrenheit offshore, and there are also more fish available during this time as they come closer to shore, searching for food and a warmer climate.

More fish means more variety for you to catch! Reel Coquina has deep-sea fishing charters that will take you fishing from November to March of each year for the best Fishing in florida!

A man sitting on a boat holding a large grouper fish, with the ocean in the background, dressed in a beanie and sunglasses.

What to Bring Onboard when Deep-Sea Fishing in Winter?

Mainly, you must be prepared to face the cold out on the water! Here are some tips to prepare for your deep-sea fishing tour in the winter:

  • Use layers of clothes including a thick and waterproof jacket, a warm sweater, gloves, and a hat.
  • Bring about 2 sets of clothing, in case something gets wet.
  • Bring some warm socks to keep your feet warm when in the boat.
  • A waterproof bag is best for this purpose.
  • Don't forget your sun protection even if it's winter!
  • Don't worry, with the right gear, you will have an amazing deep-sea fishing trip with Reel Coquina.
Book your winter deep-sea fishing charter today with Reel Coquina in St Petersburg, Florida!

MORE FISHING TIPS FOR ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA

Back to About Fish and Fishing on the Florida Gulf Coast