Top-Rated Reef Fishing in Puerto Rico

Half Day Reef Fishing: Mackerel & Amberjack

Ready to hit the reefs and reel in some of Puerto Rico's most exciting fish? Our half-day trip takes you right to the action, targeting Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and yellowtail amberjack. We'll cruise out on our trusty 20-foot Shamrock, perfectly sized for navigating the inshore reefs where these fish love to hang out. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, our expert guide will get you hooked up and into the fish. It's all about light tackle and proven jigging techniques – we'll show you the ropes and have you feeling like a pro in no time.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: crystal clear Caribbean waters, the San Juan skyline fading into the distance, and fish practically jumping into the boat. Okay, maybe not that last part, but you get the idea. We'll spend about 4 hours on the water, giving you plenty of time to get your fish on. The inshore reefs are teeming with life, so there's always something biting. We provide all the gear you need – quality rods, reels, and lures that are perfect for the local species. Our captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, so we'll put you right on the fish. And don't worry if you're new to this – we're here to help with everything from baiting hooks to landing your catch.

Jigging: The Name of the Game

Ever tried vertical jigging? If not, you're in for a treat. It's one of the most effective ways to target reef fish, and it's a blast to do. We'll show you how to work the jig – a type of lure – up and down in the water column to mimic injured baitfish. When a mackerel or amberjack spots it, hold on tight! These fish hit hard and fight even harder. We use light tackle to make the most of every bite, giving you an awesome battle even with smaller fish. It's all about feeling the bite, setting the hook, and using the rod to wear the fish down. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you'll be hooked (pun intended).

Top Catches This Season

Let me tell you, the fishing has been on fire lately. We've been crushing the Spanish mackerel – these guys are like the speedsters of the sea. They'll hit your jig and take off like a rocket. King mackerel, or "kingfish" as we call them, have been showing up too. These are the big boys, and when one hits, you'll know it. But the real stars lately have been the yellowtail amberjack. They've been hanging around the deeper parts of the reef, and man, do they pull! One of our regulars, Mike, hooked into a 25-pounder last week that had him sweating. It's the kind of fishing that keeps you coming back for more.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Spanish Mackerel: These silver torpedoes are the bread and butter of our inshore trips. They usually run 2-4 pounds, but we see some pushing 6-7 pounds pretty often. Spanish macks are known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. They travel in schools, so when you find them, it's often non-stop action. The best part? They're delicious on the grill or as fresh ceviche.

King Mackerel: The big brothers of the Spanish mackerel, kings can grow over 50 pounds. We usually catch them in the 10-30 pound range, and they're absolute powerhouses. Kings are known for their screaming first run – if your drag isn't set right, they'll spool you in seconds. They're most active in the warmer months, but we catch them year-round in Puerto Rico. Landing a big king is always a highlight of any trip.

Yellowtail Amberjack: Don't let the "jack" in the name fool you – these aren't your average jacks. Yellowtails are prized for their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare. They like to hang around structure, so we target them near drop-offs and reef edges. Most of our catches are in the 5-15 pound range, but they can grow much larger. When you hook one, be ready for a workout. They pull like a freight train and don't give up easily.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I could go on all day about the fishing, but the best way to experience it is to get out there yourself. Our half-day trips are perfect for fitting some serious fishing into your Puerto Rico vacation. We keep the groups small – just you and one other person max – so you get plenty of personal attention and time with the rod in your hands. Remember, the deposit is non-refundable, but trust me, once you're out there reeling in mackerel and amberjack, you won't be thinking about anything else. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot, and let's go fishing!