Black Sea Bass


Black Sea Bass Fishing near Cape San Blas & Port St. Joe, Florida


Black sea bass are bottom-dwelling fish that inhabit reefs, wrecks, and rocky structure off the coast of Port St. Joe. They are smaller in size but very tasty, making them a favorite for anglers targeting reef species. While not as abundant as further south, they are still caught regularly in deeper offshore areas or natural hard bottom.


Where to Catch Black Sea Bass


Look for black sea bass around:

Offshore reefs and rocky ledges

Artificial reefs in 40–100 feet of water

Bottom structure with high relief

Occasionally caught on nearshore wrecks


Best Time to Fish for Black Sea Bass


Season Black Sea Bass Activity
Spring Good action around structure in 40–80 ft depths
Summer Peak fishing offshore, especially around reefs
Fall Still productive as waters cool slightly
Winter Fish move deeper; good for bottom drops

Peak Season: May through August


Tackle & Tips


Lures: Small vertical jigs or bucktails

Bait: Squid strips, shrimp, or cut bait

Leaders: 20–30 lb mono or fluorocarbon

Technique: Drop baits directly on reef structure — stay close to bottom