The Ultimate Guide to Bottom Fishing on the Gulfstream IV in Key West
Bottom fishing in Key West is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to catch fish, and there’s no better way to experience it than aboard the Gulfstream IV. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, this party boat fishing trip is the perfect way to reel in snapper, grouper, porgies, and more while enjoying the beauty of the Florida Keys.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bottom fishing on the Gulfstream IV, from what to expect on the trip to the best techniques for landing a big catch.
What is Bottom Fishing?
Bottom fishing is a technique used to target fish that live near the ocean floor, typically around reefs, wrecks, and deep-water structures. Instead of casting and retrieving, you drop your baited hook to the bottom and wait for a bite. This method is ideal for Key West waters, where the Gulfstream IV takes anglers to some of the best reef and wreck fishing spots.
🎣 Best Bottom Fishing Targets in Key West:
✅ Yellowtail Snapper – A local favorite, these fish are fun to catch and great to eat.
✅ Mutton Snapper – Known for their fight and delicious flavor.
✅ Mangrove Snapper – Found near the reefs, easy for beginners.
✅ Red & Black Grouper – Hard fighters, but worth it for their size and taste.
✅ Porgies & Grunts – Great for kids and beginners, and they make excellent table fare.
Why Bottom Fishing on the Gulfstream IV is the Best Choice
✔️ Affordable & Family-Friendly – Gulfstream Fishing offers the most affordable deep-sea fishing in Key West, making it perfect for families, first-timers, and experienced anglers.
✔️ Professional Crew – The licensed crew on the Gulfstream IV helps with baiting hooks, rigging lines, and gaffing fish.
✔️ All Gear Provided – No need to bring rods, reels, or bait—everything is included!
✔️ Free Parking Behind the Boat – A huge perk in Key West, where parking can be expensive.
✔️ Guaranteed Action – The crew knows the best spots for non-stop bottom fishing action.
How to Bottom Fish Like a Pro on the Gulfstream IV
1️⃣ Use the Right Setup
The Gulfstream IV provides heavy-duty rods and reels, but if you bring your own gear, use:
🎣 Rod – Medium to heavy-action rod, 6-7 feet long
🎣 Reel – Conventional or spinning reel with 30-50 lb braided line
🎣 Weight – 3 to 8 ounces, depending on the current
🎣 Hooks – Circle hooks (#2 to 5/0), depending on the fish species
2️⃣ Bait Selection Matters
✔️ Frozen Squid & Cut Bait – Great for snapper, porgies, and grunts
✔️ Live Pinfish or Pilchards – Perfect for catching big grouper and mutton snapper
✔️ Shrimp – Works well for smaller reef fish and snapper
3️⃣ Drop Your Bait and Feel for Bites
- Drop your line all the way to the bottom.
- Keep your line tight and feel for nibbles.
- When you feel a bite, give a firm lift of the rod to set the hook.
4️⃣ Reel in Steady and Avoid Slack
- For snapper and porgies – Reel in smoothly and steadily to avoid losing the fish.
- For grouper – Pull hard and reel fast! Grouper will try to dive back into the rocks.
Best Time for Bottom Fishing in Key West
🌅 Morning Trips (10 AM – 4 PM) – Best for steady action and cooler temperatures.
🌆 Afternoon & Evening Trips – Some snapper species, like mangrove snapper, bite better at dusk.
🌊 Seasonal Fishing:
- Winter (Nov-Feb) – Excellent for grouper and porgies.
- Spring (Mar-May) – Peak mutton snapper season.
- Summer (Jun-Aug) – Great for yellowtail and mangrove snapper.
- Fall (Sept-Oct) – Consistent action with mixed reef fish.
Pro Tips for a Successful Bottom Fishing Trip
✅ Listen to the Crew – They know the best techniques and fishing spots!
✅ Keep Your Bait Fresh – Change your bait often for better bites.
✅ Be Patient – Bottom fishing requires some waiting, but the rewards are worth it!
✅ Hydrate & Bring Snacks – Staying comfortable means fishing longer.
✅ Book in Advance – Gulfstream Fishing is one of the most popular party boat trips in Key West, so secure your spot early.
Why Party Boat Fishing is the Best Option in Key West
While private charters like Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing, Reef Runner Charters, and Conch Too Charters offer great offshore and deep-sea experiences, party boat fishing on the Gulfstream IV is the best choice for bottom fishingbecause:
✔️ It’s Affordable – Party boat fishing is a fraction of the price of private charters.
✔️ It’s Social – Meet other anglers, share tips, and enjoy a great day on the water.
✔️ It’s Family-Friendly – Great for kids, beginners, and large groups.
✔️ No Experience Needed – The crew helps you every step of the way.
Book Your Bottom Fishing Trip on the Gulfstream IV Today!
If you’re looking for the best party boat fishing trip in Key West, Gulfstream Fishing is the top choice for bottom fishing. With an experienced crew, the best fishing spots, and non-stop action, this is the perfect way to experience Key West’s legendary reef fishing without breaking the bank.
📅 Ready to fish? Book your trip now and join us for an unforgettable Key West bottom fishing adventure! 🎣