November was one for the books here at Sea Spirit Deep Sea Fishing. From heartfelt community events to historic fisheries news, cooperative research milestones, and the kickoff of the holidays with our biggest sale of the year—this month reminded us why we love what we do and who we do it for.
A Turning Tide for Atlantic Red Snapper
One of the biggest stories of the month came early—when Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Florida’s intent to assume state management of Atlantic red snapper in federal waters. For our anglers, our crew, and our coastal community, this was an emotional moment decades in the making.
For Sea Spirit, red snapper is more than a fish—it’s history. It’s family. It’s the future of next-generation watermen and waterwomen. The announcement sparked hope across the coastline and launched ongoing conversations about fair access, dependable seasons, and meaningful collaboration with FWC and NOAA.
We’ve worked tirelessly on this issue, from advisory panels to public workshops to cooperative research. Seeing progress finally take shape hit home.
Red Snapper Law Enforcement Appreciation Trip
Our favorite trip of the month—maybe even the year—was our Public Safety Appreciation Red Snapper Trip, generously sponsored by our friends at Gary Yeomans Ford Daytona Beach, Brickyard Lounge, and Dockside Mobile Marine Diesel Repair.
Not a single officer, firefighter, or EMT on board has been able to participate in a South Atlantic red snapper season in nearly a decade due to restrictive, one-or-two-day openings. Thanks to Florida’s Red Snapper EFP program, we were able to change that—for one very meaningful day.
It was a boat full of gratitude, smiles, stories, and big red snapper.
Vermillion & Lane Snapper
November always brings solid mixing of snappers, and this year was no exception.
- Strong bags of vermillion snapper on most trips
- Lane snapper mixed in on the same spots
- Squid and small cut baits were the hot ticket
These trips kept coolers looking colorful and gave anglers steady action between bigger bites.
Mangrove Snapper
Mangroves were finicky early in the month but fired up on the calmer days.
- Best bite mid-month on slower current
- Strong fish in the 4 – 8 lb range
- Slightly longer leaders
Slightly lighter leads (6oz) were key to getting these sharp-eyed fish to commit.
Amberjack & Other Reef Species
Amberjack made a few surprise appearances this month.
- Almaco jacks kept anglers busy on the wrecks
- A couple of solid keepers Amberjacks were caught early in the month on heavy gear
- We also saw scattered porgies, blue runners, and rudderfish
A nice bonus mix for anyone who enjoys steady bending rods and a full stringer!
What’s Next?
November left us encouraged, grateful, and energized for what’s ahead:
- Continued progress toward state-managed red snapper
- Continued participation in FWC’s Atlantic Red Snapper EFP
- Great mixed bags for holiday-time anglers
- Cooler water = tighter fish on structure
- And gearing up for a busy winter of fishing, science, and storytelling
Thank you to every angler, partner, researcher, agency staff member, and family who supports Sea Spirit and believes in our little boat.
Tight Lines and Good Vibes,
Sea Spirit Fishing