Middle Grounds Charters

Middle Grounds Charters

ABOUT YOUR TRIP

Discover Deep Gulf Waters

The ultimate charter experience for anglers looking for the thrill of pulling in prized catches from deep-water depths. Middle grounds charters feature morning departures from Crystal River followed by a day of hard-fought angling in the open waters off the Gulf of Mexico. With the Circle Hook Fishing crew, you’ll reach targeted locations swarming with desired fish, making memories to last a lifetime along the way.

Targeted Species

What We’re Chasing

Red Snapper

SEASON

June and July
Florida's saltwater fishing industry is dominated by red snapper, a highly controlled species with strict season limits. This catch is a worthy battling opponent, a noticeably eye-catching species, and provides for an excellent table dish.

Vermillion Snapper

SEASON

Year Round
For Middle Grounds trips, the Vermilion Snapper is a popular catch due to its tendency to bite in deeper depths. This species is characterized by its large red eyes and short snout, growing up to 2 feet long and 7 pounds.

Yellowtail Snapper

SEASON

Year Round
This slender, yellow-striped fish maneuvers quickly through structures, with sudden bursts of speed, making it a popular catch for anglers looking for a challenge. They dwell in deep waters, but swim midwater searching for prey.

Hogfish

SEASON

Year Round
Hogfish are characterized by an elongated snout and mouth filled with needle-like teeth used to grab small crustaceans. They inhabit shallow waters near rocks, ledges, and reefs. A versatile fish perfect for excellent table fare.

Mangrove Snapper

SEASON

Year Round
Native to Florida’s coastal waters, Mangrove Snapper are bottom dwellers that feed primarily on crustaceans. They can weigh up to 5-6 pounds and are highly sought-after for its delicious flavor and flaky texture.

Red Grouper

SEASON

January-August
Red grouper are targeted catches on offshore charters for the majority of the year, with an abundance in Spring and early Summer. This white mild fish commonly weighs between 5-10 pounds and is distinguished by its dark red coloring.

Gag Grouper

SEASON

September 1-November 10
A staple for offshore fishing, adult gag grouper can be found swimming near drop-offs, reefs, and wrecks in the cooler months. We find this species most active in 60+ feet of water, requiring heavy-duty gear to bring this catch home.

IT’S REEL SIMPLE

The Quest for Your Next Catch Starts Now

Details

Full Day︱Up to 6 Passengers

Pricing

$3,400 (Up to 6 Passengers)

The Catch

Red Grouper
Gag Grouper
Red Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Yellowtail Snapper
Vermillion Snapper
Hogfish

Vessel

Yellowfin

All charter departure times will be determined the day before the trip. Middle grounds trips are 10-12 hours and usually leave the dock between 3AM to 4AM. We depart from Pete’s Pier in Crystal River, FL

“If I fished only to capture fish, my fishing trips would have ended long ago.”

Zane Grey

A Powerful Fleet for a Premier Experience

BOATS AND EQUIPMENT

Up to 100 miles off the Crystal River coastline, anglers fish from our custom-rigged 36-foot Yellowfin for the best middle grounds charter experience. Our steady vessel is outfitted with the latest gear and technology to ensure a safe, comfortable, and successful trip. With Circle Hook Fishing, anglers enjoy: a full-service crew, custom jigs, top-notch rods and reels, and plenty of ice to keep your catch fresh.

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

FISHING LICENSE

CLEANING & BAGGING

BAIT

Ice & Coolers

RODS, REELS & TACKLE

Water

Latest Up-to-Date Electronics

Packing List

What to bring for a Successful Charter

  • Hat
  • Sunscreen (no spray)
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Non-marking shoes
  • Snacks
  • Drinks
  • Coolers to take home catches

  • Glass bottles
  • Spray sunscreen

For more information about what to bring on your next charter and further tips for a successful day on the water, read our FAQs.

HOOKED ON CIRCLE HOOK FISHING

"Beautiful boats. Jacob, the captain, was great and knew all of the good spots. The service, experience, and friendships made for an awesome trip. We will be back."
— Collier J.
"Beautiful boat and top-notch equipment. The Captain and crew kept us on fish the whole time. It was a trip that I'll always remember. We left with a box full of quality fish. I would do it again any day of the week."
— Dalton H.
“These guys are the best. Very friendly and outgoing people you can ever have a great day fishing with. They will do it all and make sure you have a blast. My son and I enjoyed ourselves without a doubt. Thank you both for a great day.”
— Shawn K.