Black Sea Bass Fishing in Homosassa, Florida
Black sea bass are bottom-dwelling reef fish often found offshore and nearshore in the Homosassa area. Though smaller than other grouper family members, they make up for it with their tasty fillets and steady action over hard-bottom areas. They are typically caught while bottom fishing and are a great addition to any offshore trip.
Where to Catch Black Sea Bass
In the Homosassa area, black sea bass are typically found around:
Nearshore and offshore reefs, ledges, and rock piles
Artificial reefs in 20 to 100 feet of water
Hard-bottom areas with plenty of structure
Same habitats as snapper and grunts
Best Time to Fish for Black Sea Bass
| Season | Black Sea Bass Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Good action on reefs and hard bottom in 30–60 ft depths |
| Summer | Steady fishing on deep reefs and wrecks |
| Fall | Peak numbers on nearshore reefs as water cools |
| Winter | Excellent fishing continues offshore during calm spells |
Peak Season: October through March
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Vertical jigs and bucktails near the bottom
Bait: Squid strips, cut bait, or shrimp fished on dropper rigs
Leaders: 20–30 lb mono or fluorocarbon
Technique: Drop baits to the bottom and give small lifts to entice bites
