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Caught a 14inch Mutton Snapper in Key Largo
Mutton Snapper Fishing in Key Largo
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The Mutton Snapper (Lutjanus analis) is a highly prized game fish found in the waters around Key Largo. These beautiful fish are members of the Lutjanidae family and belong to the order Perciformes. They typically range from 5-15 pounds and can grow up to 20 inches in length. - They inhabit various environments including reefs, nearshore waters, and backcountry areas. - Their distinctive olive coloration and blue lines below the eyes make them easy to identify when caught.
Fishing Charter by Captain Jason Calhoun in August
Meet your Captain Jason Calhoun
- Florida Keys Sportfishing Action in Key Largo!
Summary
Experience the thrill of deep sea fishing in Key Largo with Lock It Up Charters this Saturday July. Captain Jason Calhoun took Doug out for an afternoon fishing charter launching from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where they landed a beautiful 14-inch Mutton Snapper. Mixing trolling and bottom fishing techniques throughout the 4-hour trip, they found consistent action despite the partly cloudy summer skies. The waters around Key Largo offer excellent opportunities for targeting Mutton Snapper and various other species. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying deep sea fishing for the first time, Lock It Up Charters provides all the necessary gear and expert guidance to ensure a productive day on the water. Don't miss your chance to experience the rich fishing grounds of the Florida Keys with a knowledgeable local captain who knows exactly where to find the action.
Fishing Charter with Jason Calhoun – Rates & Booking
Captain Jason Calhoun of Lock It Up Charters on Saturday July offers a fantastic 4-hour afternoon fishing trip in Key Largo. Launching from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, this deep sea fishing experience provides everything you need to target Mutton Snapper and other local species. All fishing equipment, licenses, and expert guidance are included. Captain Jason tailors each trip to current conditions and what's biting, ensuring you get the most from your time on the water. Whether you're a beginner or experienced angler, this afternoon charter is perfect for those wanting to sleep in or explore Key Largo in the morning before hitting the water. Availability can be limited during peak summer months, so booking in advance is recommended.
Highlights of this Key Largo Fishing Trip
This 4-hour afternoon trip with Lock It Up Charters delivers consistent action in the productive waters around Key Largo. Captain Jason expertly alternates between trolling and bottom fishing techniques to maximize your chances of success. The summer months bring classic Florida weather - partly cloudy skies with warm temperatures perfect for a day on the water.
While on this trip, Doug landed a nice 14-inch Mutton Snapper, a prized catch in these waters. The deep sea fishing spots around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park rarely disappoint, offering opportunities to hook into various species. Captain Jason's local knowledge ensures you'll be fishing the most productive areas based on seasonal patterns and current conditions.
Local Species Insights: Mutton Snapper
Mutton Snapper are highly sought-after game fish in the waters around Key Largo. These beautiful fish feature an olive coloration that transitions from dark to light tones from top to bottom, with distinctive blue lines below and behind their eyes and a small black spot on both sides. They typically inhabit reefs, nearshore structures, and backcountry areas, making them accessible during various fishing trips.
When targeting Mutton Snapper in Key Largo, bottom fishing with fresh bait produces the best results. These fish put up an impressive fight when hooked, making them a favorite among anglers visiting the Florida Keys. Summer months can be particularly productive, with fish averaging 5-15 pounds, though they can grow up to 20 inches in length. Captain Jason's experience with local fishing spots helps ensure you have the best chance of landing these prized fish during your charter.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
When booking your fishing charter with Lock It Up Charters, you'll want to arrive at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. The afternoon trip is perfect for those who prefer not to wake up early or want to explore Key Largo in the morning. All fishing gear is provided, including quality rods, reels, tackle, and bait suited to local conditions and target species.
Dress comfortably for the weather, bringing sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A light jacket might be useful for partly cloudy days. You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks (in non-glass containers), though water is typically provided. Captain Jason prioritizes both your enjoyment and safety on the water, ensuring a memorable fishing experience in the beautiful waters of Key Largo.
Fishing in Key Largo: Mutton Snapper
The Mutton Snapper (Lutjanus analis) is a prized member of the Lutjanidae family and belongs to the order Perciformes. This beautiful fish is easily recognized by its olive coloration that gradually transitions from dark to light tones from top to bottom, with distinctive blue lines below and behind the eyes. In Key Largo waters this July, anglers specifically target these fish for both their sporting qualities and excellent table fare.
Mutton Snapper Overview
Mutton Snapper are highly regarded among anglers for their fighting ability and delicious white meat. These reef-dwelling fish are found throughout the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and along the Atlantic coast, with Key Largo being a prime location for targeting them. They're often considered one of the smarter snapper species, making them a challenging and rewarding catch.
Mutton Snapper Habitat and Distribution
These fish inhabit varied environments including onshore areas, coral reefs, nearshore waters, and backcountry regions. They prefer structures like patch reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms in depths ranging from 10 to 100 feet. Around Key Largo, they're commonly found near the reef systems protected by John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, making them accessible on half-day charters.
Mutton Snapper Size and Weight
Adult Mutton Snapper typically weigh between 5 and 15 pounds, though trophy specimens can reach up to 20 inches in length. The current Florida record is substantially larger than the average catch, making any double-digit weight Mutton a noteworthy accomplishment for anglers fishing the Keys.
Mutton Snapper Diet and Behavior
Mutton Snapper are opportunistic feeders that primarily consume smaller fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They often hunt during dawn and dusk periods, using their exceptional eyesight to locate prey. They're known to be more wary than other snapper species, sometimes requiring more finesse and patience when targeting them specifically.
Mutton Snapper Spawning Season
These fish typically spawn during the summer months in the Florida Keys, gathering in large aggregations around the full moon. Water temperature plays a crucial role in their spawning behavior, with peak activity occurring when waters warm to the mid-70s and above. During July in Key Largo, anglers may encounter both pre-spawn and spawning Mutton Snapper.
Mutton Snapper Fishing Techniques
For consistent Mutton Snapper success, bottom fishing with fresh cut bait like squid, ballyhoo, or pilchards works exceptionally well. Medium-heavy spinning tackle with 20-30 pound test line and fluorocarbon leaders improves hook-up ratios as these fish can be line-shy. In July, anglers around Key Largo find them near deeper reef edges and artificial structures where cooler water provides relief from summer heat. Drift fishing along reef lines with a chum slick can also be productive when targeting these fish specifically.
Mutton Snapper Is It Good to Eat?
Mutton Snapper is considered one of the finest eating fish in the snapper family. The meat is white, flaky, and mild with a sweet flavor that lends itself to various preparations. It's excellent grilled, blackened, or prepared as ceviche. From a nutritional standpoint, it's high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury compared to other reef species.
Mutton Snapper Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Mutton Snapper?
A: Fresh cut baits like squid, ballyhoo, and pilchards are highly effective. Live shrimp and small crabs also work well, particularly when fishing around reefs and structure in Key Largo waters.
Q: Where can I find Mutton Snapper near Key Largo?
A: Mutton Snapper are commonly found around the reef systems near John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, particularly around patch reefs, ledges, and artificial structures in 30-80 feet of water.
Q: Is Mutton Snapper good to eat?
A: Yes, Mutton Snapper is considered one of the best-tasting fish in the snapper family with white, flaky meat that has a sweet, mild flavor perfect for various cooking methods.
Q: When is the best time to catch Mutton Snapper?
A: In Key Largo, Mutton Snapper can be caught year-round, but summer months (May through August) often produce the best results, especially during spawning aggregations around the full moon periods.
Q: What size hook should I use for Mutton Snapper?
A: 3/0 to 5/0 circle hooks are ideal for Mutton Snapper, depending on bait size. Circle hooks improve hook-up ratios and make catch-and-release easier if you're targeting other species.
Q: Are Mutton Snapper hard to catch?
A: Mutton Snapper can be more challenging than other snapper species as they're generally warier and more line-shy. Using fluorocarbon leaders, appropriate-sized hooks, and fresh bait will significantly improve your chances of success.
