Full Day Wreck Fishing Hotspots in Key Largo

Published Date: July 18, 2025
Fishing

Key Largo, FL
$350 - $1,200 price range
Updated Date: October 3, 2025

Summary

Ready for a full day of fishing in Key Largo? This 8-hour charter takes you to prime spots where barracuda and black grouper are known to bite. We'll hit wrecks, reefs, and deeper waters, giving you plenty of time to try different techniques and locations. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to offshore fishing, our crew provides everything you need - bait, tackle, and licenses are all covered. With a 6-person capacity, there's room for your group to spread out and reel in some impressive catches. As we move between fishing grounds, you'll get a feel for Key Largo's diverse marine environment. It's a great chance to hook some dinner-worthy fish and really settle into the rhythm of a day on the water. By the time we head back to dock, you'll have had a proper Florida Keys fishing experience.

Full Day Wreck Fishing Hotspots in Key Largo

Reeling in the Big Ones

Angler fishing in the waters of Key Largo

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Two people fishing in the waters of Key Largo, catching a great barracuda.

Key Largo offshore fishing trip

Two great barracuda caught while fishing in Florida

Key Largo big catch of the day

Fishing and fun in Key Largo FL

Key Largo's Wreck Fishing Bonanza

Get ready to dive into some serious wreck fishing action off the coast of Key Largo. This full-day charter with Lock It Up Charters is your ticket to hooking into monster barracuda, tasty black grouper, and a whole bunch of other hard-fighting fish. We're talking 8 solid hours on the water, giving you plenty of time to hit multiple hotspots and really dial in your technique. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your hat and sunscreen - it's time to get after those fish!

What's On The Menu Today?

This ain't your average half-day quickie. We're loading up for a full 8 hours of non-stop fishing action. We'll start by hitting some killer wreck spots where big barracuda and grouper love to hang out. As the day goes on, we might switch it up and try some reef fishing or even push out to deeper water, depending on where the bite is hot. The beauty of this longer trip is we've got time to really explore and find the fish. You'll be using top-notch gear, and all your bait, tackle, and fishing licenses are covered. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler for dinner or just want the thrill of battling some serious gamefish, this trip's got you covered.

Wreck Fishing 101

Alright, let's talk wreck fishing. We're not just randomly tossing lines in the water here. Wrecks are like underwater apartments for fish - they love the structure and the protection it offers. We'll be using a mix of techniques, from bottom fishing with heavy weights and circle hooks to vertical jigging for those aggressive predators. Expect to drop some live bait down there too - nothing gets a big grouper fired up like a juicy pinfish or grunt. The key is patience and precision. We'll use the boat's electronics to pinpoint the wrecks, then it's all about getting your bait in the strike zone and holding on tight when that rod bends over!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Barracuda: These toothy missiles are the speed demons of the reef. Barracuda can grow up to 5 feet long and put on an aerial show when hooked. They're most active in the warmer months and love to hang around structure like wrecks. When a 'cuda hits your bait, hold on tight - their initial run is lightning fast!

Black Grouper: The bruisers of the reef, black grouper are prized for both their fight and their tasty fillets. These guys can push 100 pounds in Key Largo waters, though 20-40 pounders are more common. They love to hang deep in the wreck structure, so getting them out takes some muscle. Fall and winter are prime times for big grouper.

Yellow Jack: Don't sleep on these hard-fighting fish. Yellow jacks school up around wrecks and can put on a serious show when hooked. They're fast, powerful, and love to make long runs. While not as big as some other targets, a 10-15 pound yellow jack will give you all the action you can handle on lighter tackle.

Mutton Snapper: These beautiful red snappers are a true prize catch. They're known for their intelligence and can be tricky to hook, but the fight (and the dinner) is worth it. Muttons love rocky bottom and wrecks, and they can get big - 15-20 pounders aren't uncommon. Spring and early summer are great times to target these tasty fish.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing the wrecks off Key Largo. Maybe it's the thrill of dropping your bait down, knowing there could be a monster grouper or a toothy barracuda eyeing it up. Or maybe it's the variety - one minute you're battling a hard-pulling jack, the next you're finessing a clever mutton snapper. The longer trip time means we're not rushed, so we can really explore and find where the fish are biting. Plus, there's just something about being out on that clear blue water, surrounded by nothing but ocean and good company. It's the kind of day that reminds you why you fell in love with fishing in the first place.

Time to Lock In Your Spot

Look, if you're itching for a day of serious fishing action, this Key Largo wreck trip is calling your name. We're talking 8 full hours to chase down some of the hardest fighting, best-eating fish in the Keys. Whether you're dreaming of that trophy barracuda photo or just want to fill the cooler with some tasty grouper and snapper, we've got you covered. The boat's ready, the fish are waiting, and the only thing missing is you. So what are you waiting for? Give Lock It Up Charters a call and let's get you out on the water. Trust me, your arms will be sore, your cooler will be full, and you'll be planning your next trip before we even hit the dock. See you out there!

Learn more about the species

Barracuda

Barracudas are sleek, torpedo-shaped predators that can reach up to 6 feet long. You'll find them around Key Largo's reefs and wrecks, often lurking near structure. These guys are fast - they can hit 35 mph in short bursts. Spring through fall is prime barracuda season here. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. They'll hit just about anything shiny, so try trolling with flashy lures or spoons. My local tip: when you see one following, speed up your retrieve to trigger that predatory instinct. Just watch those teeth when you're unhooking 'em! While not the best eating, barracuda make for an exciting catch, especially on light tackle. Keep an eye out for their distinctive shape cruising near the surface.

Black Grouper

Black Grouper are powerhouse bottom-dwellers that'll test your arms. These olive-gray fish with dark blotches can grow over 5 feet and 100 pounds, though most are 2-3 feet. You'll find them lurking around reefs, wrecks, and ledges in 30-300 foot depths, depending on the season. Winter's great for shallower fishing, while they go deeper in summer. Anglers love 'em for their brute strength and excellent table fare. When targeting blacks, use heavy gear - at least 20 pounds of drag and 80-pound braid. They're not picky eaters, so live or dead bait works. Here's a Key Largo tip: once you feel a bite, crank fast. These guys will bolt for cover if you give 'em a chance. The fight's intense, but the reward of fresh grouper for dinner is hard to beat.

Mutton Snapper

Mutton Snapper are a prized catch around Key Largo, known for their tasty meat and good fight. They typically run 15-20 inches, but can reach up to 37 inches and 34 pounds. You'll find them near reefs, mangroves, and inlets with strong tidal flow, usually in 80-300 foot depths. Spring and early summer are prime seasons, especially during their spawning aggregations. Anglers love muttons for their selective bites and strong runs once hooked. Here's a local tip: use fresh bait on a light sinker or knocker rig, and let it drift in the chum slick. Patience is key - muttons can be finicky. When you see that flash of pink coming up, you know you've got one. They make excellent table fare, so they're perfect for filling the cooler on our full-day trips.

Yellow Jack

Yellow Jacks are often an unexpected catch, but they're a blast to reel in. These golden-streaked fish can hit 39 inches and 31 pounds, though most are smaller. Look for them around offshore reefs and seagrass beds, sometimes hanging with jellyfish. They're fast swimmers and opportunistic feeders, often following larger fish for easy meals. Spring and summer are good times to target them. Anglers enjoy their quick strikes and strong fights. For best results, try trolling with pilchards - Yellow Jacks go crazy for 'em. Here's a local trick: when you see one following your bait, give it a quick tug to trigger that predatory instinct. Use light tackle, maybe 10-15 pound test, to really feel those hits. Just remember to remove the bloodline if you're keeping them for dinner.

About the Lock It Up II

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 300

Our trusty fishing vessel is ready to take you on an action-packed day of wreck fishing around Key Largo. This reliable 30-foot center console is equipped with top-notch electronics and fishing gear to put you on the barracuda, black grouper, and other hard-fighting species. With room for up to 6 anglers, you'll have plenty of space to cast lines and reel in your catch. The boat's sturdy construction handles offshore conditions with ease, allowing us to reach prime fishing spots. A shaded area provides relief from the Florida sun when needed. Comfortable seating, an onboard cooler for drinks, and a clean restroom ensure you can focus on the fishing. This well-maintained vessel has the speed to cover ground and the stability to fish effectively once we arrive at the wrecks and reefs. Get ready for 8 hours of serious fishing action on this Key Largo charter!

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