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Caught a Longfin Yellowtail Inshore in Pensacola
Longfin Yellowtail Fishing in Pensacola
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The Seriola Rivoliana belongs to the order Carangiformes and family Carangidae. It typically measures between 35 and 60 inches in length, with a weight range from 10 to 130 lbs. Habitat: offshore. - Notable for dusky dorsal coloring ranging from brown to silvery blue-green. - Also known as the Almaco Jack with distinctive amber side stripe.
Fishing Charter by Captain Q Simpkins in August
Meet your Captain Quintarius Simpkins
- Premier Pensacola Inshore Fishing Charters!
Summary
Captain Q Simpkins of Southern Strike LLC on Sunday May offers exceptional inshore fishing charters targeting Longfin Yellowtail and other prized gamefish in Pensacola's productive bay waters. This 4-hour fishing charter combines light tackle techniques with expert local knowledge to deliver consistent action on species like Greater Amberjack, Cobia, and Red Snapper. Perfect for families and anglers of all skill levels, these guided trips include all necessary gear and focus on the calm inshore waters where fish concentrate year-round. With Pensacola's diverse structure and flats providing ideal habitat, anglers can expect exciting battles and memorable catches while learning proven techniques from an experienced local guide. Book online to secure your spot for an unforgettable Gulf Coast fishing adventure.
Fishing Charter with Captain Q Simpkins – Rates & Booking
Captain Q Simpkins of Southern Strike LLC on Sunday May leads productive 4-hour inshore fishing trips targeting Longfin Yellowtail and other Gulf Coast gamefish. These private charters accommodate up to 3 guests and include all fishing gear, bait, and tackle needed for a successful day on the water. Trips depart early morning from Pensacola and focus on the productive inshore structure and flats where fish concentrate throughout the year. Licensed and experienced, Captain Q provides expert guidance on light tackle techniques while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for anglers of all skill levels. Book your charter online or call to check availability and secure your preferred date.
Highlights of Half Day Guided Fishing Trip In Pensacola - Snapper, Grouper, and More
This inshore fishing adventure showcases the best of Pensacola's diverse fishery, with opportunities to target Longfin Yellowtail alongside Greater Amberjack, Cobia, and Red Snapper. The calm bay waters provide an ideal environment for light tackle fishing, allowing anglers to feel every fight while working the productive flats and structure. Captain Q's local expertise shines through strategic positioning and bait selection, consistently putting guests on active fish throughout the 4-hour trip.
The experience combines technical fishing skills with the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast, creating lasting memories for families and serious anglers alike. With all equipment provided and expert instruction available, guests can focus on enjoying the thrill of the catch while learning techniques that will improve their future fishing success.
Local Species Insights: Longfin Yellowtail
Longfin Yellowtail thrive in Pensacola's offshore and nearshore waters, where they patrol structure and open water in search of baitfish and squid. These powerful members of the jack family are known for their aggressive strikes and determined fights, making them a favorite target for light tackle enthusiasts. In May, these fish become more active as water temperatures rise, often moving closer to inshore structure where they can be targeted with live bait and artificial lures. Their distinctive amber coloring and sickle-shaped fins make them easily identifiable, while their hard-charging nature provides exciting battles that test both angler skill and tackle strength.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 4-hour inshore fishing trip includes a fully equipped charter boat with all necessary fishing gear, tackle, and bait provided by Captain Q Simpkins. The vessel comfortably accommodates up to 3 guests and features safety equipment, fish storage, and comfortable seating for the duration of your trip. Early morning departures take advantage of prime fishing conditions, with the captain adjusting locations and techniques based on current fish activity and weather patterns. Guests should bring sun protection, snacks, and drinks, while the captain handles all fishing logistics including cleaning your catch at the end of the trip.
Fishing in Pensacola: Longfin Yellowtail
The Longfin Yellowtail (Seriola rivoliana), also known as the Almaco Jack, is a powerful member of the Carangidae family within the order Carangiformes. This distinctive gamefish features dusky dorsal coloring ranging from brown to silvery blue-green with a characteristic amber stripe along its side. Distinguished from other jack species by its more flattened, less elongated body and prominent sickle-shaped dorsal and anal fins, the Longfin Yellowtail is a prized catch for Pensacola anglers this May.
Longfin Yellowtail Overview
This robust jack species combines impressive size potential with aggressive feeding behavior, making it a favorite target for both recreational and sport fishing enthusiasts. Longfin Yellowtail are known for their powerful runs and determined fights, often testing the limits of light tackle setups. Their streamlined body design and strong tail make them efficient predators capable of quick bursts of speed when pursuing prey or fighting anglers.
Longfin Yellowtail Habitat and Distribution
Longfin Yellowtail primarily inhabit offshore waters but frequently move into nearshore areas around structure, reefs, and drop-offs. In the Gulf of Mexico near Pensacola, these fish are commonly found around artificial reefs, oil rigs, and natural bottom structure where baitfish concentrate. They prefer depths ranging from 60 to 400 feet but will venture into shallower waters when following schools of prey fish.
Longfin Yellowtail Size and Weight
These impressive jacks typically range from 35 to 60 inches in length, with weights spanning from 10 to 130 pounds. Most fish caught in Pensacola waters fall in the 20 to 50-pound range, though larger specimens are possible around deeper offshore structure. Their substantial size and muscular build contribute to their reputation as formidable opponents on rod and reel.
Longfin Yellowtail Diet and Behavior
Longfin Yellowtail are opportunistic predators that feed primarily on small fish, squid, and crustaceans. They often hunt in schools, using their speed and agility to corral baitfish against structure or in open water. Peak feeding activity typically occurs during dawn and dusk hours, though they can be active throughout the day when conditions are favorable. Their aggressive nature makes them responsive to both live bait and artificial lures.
Longfin Yellowtail Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in warmer months when water temperatures rise above 75 degrees Fahrenheit. During this period, fish may form larger aggregations around spawning sites, making them more accessible to anglers. The increased activity during spawning season often coincides with improved fishing success as fish become more aggressive and feed more actively.
Longfin Yellowtail Fishing Techniques
Successful techniques include live bait fishing with blue runners, sardines, or squid, as well as vertical jigging with heavy spoons and butterfly jigs. Trolling with large diving plugs or rigged ballyhoo can also be effective when fish are scattered. In May around Pensacola, anglers often find success working the edges of reefs and structure where these fish ambush prey, using circle hooks and medium-heavy tackle to handle their powerful runs.
Longfin Yellowtail Is It Good to Eat?
Longfin Yellowtail offers excellent table fare with firm, white meat that has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is versatile and works well grilled, blackened, or prepared as sashimi when properly handled. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this fish provides healthy nutrition while maintaining relatively low mercury levels compared to larger pelagic species.
Longfin Yellowtail Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Longfin Yellowtail?
A: Live blue runners, sardines, and squid are top choices, though large artificial jigs and trolled lures can also be very effective when fish are actively feeding.
Q: Where can I find Longfin Yellowtail near Pensacola?
A: Look for them around artificial reefs, oil rigs, and natural bottom structure in 60-400 feet of water, though they may move shallower when chasing baitfish.
Q: Is Longfin Yellowtail good to eat?
A: Yes, they offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat that has a mild flavor and works well prepared in various cooking methods.
Q: When is the best time to catch Longfin Yellowtail?
A: Dawn and dusk are prime times, though they can be active throughout the day, especially during warmer months when spawning activity increases their aggression.
More species you can explore on this trip
Southern Strike LLC Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Hop aboard for a laid-back 4-hour fishing trip in Pensacola's calm bay waters. We'll be targeting popular catches like redfish, grouper, snapper, and sheepshead while soaking in the Gulf Coast scenery. This trip is great for families, first-timers, or experienced anglers looking for some light tackle action in a relaxed setting. Your captain will share local knowledge and handy tips to help you reel in the big ones. It's a fun way to spend half a day on the water, whether you're aiming to land a trophy fish or just enjoy being out on the bay. Grab your hat and sunscreen - let's head out for some quality fishing time in beautiful Pensacola!
