Black Sea Bass Fishing in Pensacola, Florida
Black sea bass are smaller reef fish that provide fun action and excellent table fare. In the Pensacola area, they are often caught as bycatch while bottom fishing for snapper and grouper on reefs and wrecks. These fish are plentiful in cooler months offshore.
Where to Catch Black Sea Bass
In the Pensacola area, black sea bass are usually caught:
On offshore reefs and hard bottom areas
Near artificial reef structures and wrecks
Occasionally closer to shore during winter
Drop baits or jigs to the bottom and work near structure for best results.
Best Time to Fish for Black Sea Bass
| Season | Black Sea Bass Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Good numbers over reefs and wrecks |
| Summer | Still caught but competition increases with other reef fish |
| Fall | Another productive season offshore |
Peak Season: March through May & October through December
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Vertical jigs, bucktail jigs, and soft plastics
Bait: Squid, shrimp, or cut bait dropped to the bottom
Leaders: 20–30 lb mono or fluorocarbon
Technique: Bounce bait or jigs near reef edges for best chance at quality fish
