Black Sea Bass Fishing in Cedar Key, Florida
Black sea bass are structure-loving bottom fish commonly caught offshore from Cedar Key. They’re known for their tasty white fillets and aggressive nature. Anglers typically catch them on light tackle while fishing reefs and wrecks with cut bait or squid.
Where to Catch Black Sea Bass
Look for black sea bass on:
Offshore reefs and hard bottom areas
Artificial structures and wrecks
Near ledges in 30–120 feet of water
They’re usually caught while targeting snapper or grouper and respond well to vertical presentations.
Best Time to Fish for Black Sea Bass in Cedar Key
| Season | Sea Bass Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Very good near shallow reefs and wrecks |
| Summer | Excellent—peak offshore season |
| Fall | Still active near deeper reefs |
Peak Season: Spring through summer
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Bucktail jigs and small vertical jigs
Bait: Cut squid, shrimp, or sardines
Leaders: 20–30 lb fluorocarbon
Gear: Light to medium spinning or bottom fishing setup
