Spring Break 2024, Good Bite Going On!

Spring Break 2024!

Flamingo Report!

3/ 12-14/ 24

Last week was pretty good, Mike Drippe and his son Quinton had some great Fishing over 3 days in Everglades National Park. Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Goliath Groupers, Sharks, Tripletails, Jacks, Ladyfish, and Snappers. We hooked Tarpon from 30 lbs. to @110 lbs. with Quinton catching the big one. The Tarpon bite has been good, but some days you have to look for them!

Quinton weighs in at 90 lbs and he caught Tarpon and Sharks that outweighed him. He also caught a Goliath Grouper that’s was @ 45 lbs. His dad Mike caught his share, but it was Quintons opportunity to catch fish of a lifetime

We got a SLAM or GRAND SLAM every day, very impressive!

3/17/24

I am fishing with Dr. Jason and future son in law Sammy. We had a very good day, they caught Snook, Trout, Redfish, Sammy jumped a Tarpon and caught a few big Lemon Sharks. Dr Jason had a few Snook, Redfish and Trout for a Slam! They also caught numerous Ladyfish, Jacks, Snappers and of course Catfish.

3/19/24

Paul and his son Davis were staying in Key Largo. Paul’s brother Tony is a good friend and told how fish crazy Davis was. He also told me He wanted a big Tarpon. I told him it was the right time and we set up the trip. We got to the marina at 6:15 am, it was still dark. While I was getting ready to launch the boat, I handed him a rod and told him go catch a Tarpon. It was rigged with a NLBN 3-inch paddle tail in white. He jumped a couple Tarpon, by the time I got over to him he needed help landing the fish. I pulled up and jumped on dock and grabbed the Tarpon. We are on our way to a SLAM. On our first spot we got a couple Snook and we needed a Redfish. It actually got colder as the morning went on and a front passing thru the winds picked up and 25 mph but eventually slowed down. We bounced around all day and found fish everywhere. At the end of the day, we had Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, Trout, Shark, Jacks and a few missed fish that would have put us over the top. It was late and we will be back tomorrow!

3/ 20/24

We started off day 2 the same way except we are fishing backcountry today. Davis started with a Tarpon while I was launching the boat. Our first stop was for a couple small Ladyfish, the Tarpon have been eating them. We set up our first drift and it didn’t take long, we were hooked up with a jumping Tarpon 50 yards behind the boat. It was very violent, the circle hook got twisted in the bait. Fish is gone and back to drifting. I could see they were getting bored and said let’s go see if we can get a Snook or Redfish and we will come back. We went to a little spot that’s been really good lately, but not today. There are 3 points in a small bay and they all hold fish, although not at same time! We missed a fish on spot 1 and 2 but got a Snook and Redfish on spot 3. We are a Trout away from a Grand Slam! I go to a really good Trout spot and get the Trout in 5 minutes also a monster of a Tarpon. The Tarpon ate a NLBN Orane Head and white body paddle tail right next to the boat. Davis is yelling he is spooling us. Of course, it was on the lightest rod in the boat with a short leader. The first run was 200 yards and never came up, it took 35 minutes before it jumped. Davis did a good job, but odds were against us. 1 hour and 20 minutes later the line hit some and broke. We had it next to the boat 10 times, but it was powerful, and didn’t want to play anymore. The rest of the day was just catching fish and having fun.

3/21/24

I fished with Mitch and Jill today. We started out with Jill catching a couple Snook and Mitch had something pick up his NLBN and run about 100 yards. We were just out bending the rods and had some Tarpon blow up a school of mullet, I had Mitch cast a NLBN K -Tail. Mitch put it in the boil where Tarpon blew up. The rod doubled over but it was a Jack. There were a few more blow ups but no Tarpon hook ups. They caught a bunch of Trout, Jacks and Ladyfish also.

I can do this for You if you like. Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter so give me a call at 305 333 8149. Great days with great people is what it’s all about!

Let’s go Catchem’

Capt. Jim Hobales

follow on Instagram @ caught lookin charters

Slammen the Backcountry!

01-27-24

It’s been kind of slow, but I still need and want to be on water. I can always call my buddy Mike to help me stay on the fish, Mike keeps my boat running and I appreciate. He' also catches allot of fish. I asked him if he wanted to go Target some giant Tarpon in the Flamingo Back country. I was watching the water temp’s last few days waiting for them to get above 72. We left marina at 6;15 in the dark hoping to find some Tarpon that were eating before the full moon set. I have had some luck over the years doing this. We found some giants and made allot of cast but there was no interest. We did catch a bunch of Trout while fishing for Tarpon.

I said let go find some Snook and Redfish? We ran north and found some more Tarpon that seemed happy just not happy enough to eat our #NLBN Baits. The tide was falling and really a full moon low. We ran out looking for Tripletails and Mackerel, they were scarce. We ran back inside and waited for the tide rise. While we waited, we got into a pretty good snook/Trout bite. We were only throwing #NLBN products, Paddle tails 3 and 5 inch, the new K tails. We used all colors to see if it would make a difference, they ate them all. We were using #Biscayne Rods and #Penn Reels

Don’t Forget your Bajio Sunglasses!

We kept casting and the tide came in some, that’s when Redfish showed up. There were also Trout to 23” s feeding in the area. We fished the rising tide for around 2 hours, until the bite slowed down. We caught 20 plus Redfish and even more Trout.

We had caught some Jacks and I said let’s go play with the Goliath Groupers. First cast produced a small but tough Goliath, I let Mike go first because he caught the first Goliath on this spot while Tarpon fishing. I also caught a 13-inch Snapper on a 5 Inch white NLBN paddle tail that I was using for Goliath Groupers.

We decided to go back and look for Tarpon. It was breezy but water temps got up to 75, there were a few other guys somewhat in the area.

We continued to cast the 5-inch Paddle tail in white, I also put out a live Ladyfish. It’s kind of Ironic since we were casting a lure called NO LIve Bait Needed but sometimes you have to try things you know work, when fish aren’t biting. The Ladyfish worked! I was the lucky one standing closet to the rod when it doubled over, when a giant Tarpon jumped behind the boat. The Monster Tarpon pulled allot of line first run, his second run almost spooled me. It’s hard to put a poundage to the giant fish because people won’t believe what you say. I don’t exaggerate and when I say big it’s big! It took about 20 minutes to get the giant boat side, she wasn’t ready, but I tried to get her to jump one more time. The leader got frayed trying but I got the leader release, awesome come and try it .You will love it!

We left today with 1 grand Slam Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, and Trout and 5 Slams Snook ,Redfsih and Trout!

If you are interested in this kind of trip, give me a call at 305 333 8149. I fish Flamingo which is in Everglades National Park, Key Lago and all of Biscayne Bay. Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter.

Let; go Catch’em,

Captain Jim Hobales

Instagram @ caught lookin charters

Winter in South Florida!

When you think of winter you think of cold and snow up north, but in South Florida it’s not that way. Most of the cold fronts this year affect us with a little cold and plenty of wind. Its been a really consistent pattern with a day or 2 of decent weather and then another front and more wind.

It’s not always unfishable in the backcountry of Everglades National Park, you just have to go. It’s a great time to learn new spots! It’s possible you fish an area that’s usually protected, doesn’t work unless its blowing. Wind moves fish and baits around. This is something you learn by fishing in terrible conditions.

This past week I fished Flamingo on Sunday 1-14-24. It was blowing 15-25 out of the S.W. and usually a wind people stay home on. Some people don’t care, it just about getting away. This day I fished with my friend Mike, and it started out slow. We were fishing NLBN against Gulp. They both catch fish although the Gulps need to be replaced after every fish while NLBN lasted thru allot of fish. I don’t ever remember getting so many hits as or before NLBN hit the water.

We worked around and fished all the islands that had protection in Fl Bay. Lots of big Jacks up on edge of flats, they were swimming on the backs of Sting Rays. They are fun when they blow up the lure, as it comes over the back of the Ray. We caught a bunch waiting for a Redfish to show up. They never showed up on that spot. We moved around a decided to fish into the wind. We fished the edge of a channel that was loaded with mullet. We cast at the potholes as mullet swam through and found Snook and Redfish sitting in them. The wind really picked up, so we called it a day.

01-19-24

I am fishing Flamingo today with Dennis, Bill and Greg. We are fishing the backcountry, starting in Whitewater Bay. It was cool and water Temps were 70.52. A small front went thru last night and chased away whatever Tarpon were around the last few days. We stopped in Whitewater anyway and took a look for Tarpon. I had them casting some NLBN Twisted Tea colored Paddle Tails. The Trout were there, they caught about 20 or so and more Ladyfish than that. It was a great warm up! We ran back looking for Redfish a friend had found a couple days earlier, we only caught 1. We made a move and ended up fishing creeks on the coast.

We had a good bite of Trout along the shoreline. The tide was starting to come in and the Redfish bite was on. They caught Redfish and Trout on every cast for a couple hours. The Reds were 16 to 26 inches, and the Trout were 12 to 20”.

It was getting late, and we had 1 stop on the way in. We saved a few Jacks and Ladyfish so we could hook some Goliath Groupers. Dennis had already caught a small Goliath on an Artificial already, so it was Bill and Greg’s turn.

I hooked up a bait and to Greg where to cast it, tossing a 1-pound bait isn’t easy. It took a couple cast and then the hit, he couldn’t believe it. The Goliath ate turned and ran into mangroves and cut us off. rerigged and another bait was a similar result. We are down to our last Jack. Its a bout 1 1/2 lb.’s. He cast aand before it hit the Goliath ate it. Greg fought it for 5 minutes and landed a 40lb. Goliath.

Its Bill’s turn now and we had 1 Ladyfish left. He made a good cast, it was instantaneous. He came out of mangroves pretty quick and boatside for some photos. Great day with great guys but we were 20 miles from the dock and it was time to go.

01-19-24

I fished with neighborhood friends A.C and Ian in Key Largo today. We Caught allot of Yellowtails and then went offshore with the Cigar Minnows we netted. We had a few Kingfish eat our Baits and then my buddy A.C got this nice Grouper which was released.

Our weather will get really nice here in the next couple weeks, when it does Tarpon time! The coolest Tarpon fishery there is, and they are big! I really live for the 4 weeks or so that they are here, it fun. There will also be Snook and Redfish. Fishing at Flamingo the next few months is plenty of fun, lots of rod bending!

I also do charters out of Key Largo and Biscayne Bay for an assortment of species. If your interested in a fun day of fishing give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Let’ go Catch’em,

Capt. Jim Hobales

follow on Instagram @ Caught lookin Charters

Happy New Year, 2024!

The last couple months were strange at best. We had a few Lows come out of the Carribean and cross the Keys and South Florida. The storms reached winds in the Tropical storm range twice but because the storm hit out of season you can’t call it a Tropical Storm. We got lots of rain in all the places I fish and then it got cold.

All that and we still catch fish either in Biscayne Bay, Flamingo or Key Largo. If you are lucky enough to fish on one of the good days in the middle it can be awesome. Some people cancel and some go fishing, sometime probably wrong decision.

Flamingo Area-

We are all hoping for a warming stretch so the Tarpon will get into the back backcountry, meanwhile we will keep catching whatever we can wherever we can. Snook, Trout, Redfish.

This past week in rough cold weather there was a great yellowtail bite in Key Largo 2 days just loaded up.

I am waiting for the good days but will go any time you want. Give me a call at 305 333 8149

Happy New Year,

Captain Jim Hobales

Late Tropical season should be over!

The last couple months have been slow business wise. The fishing was pretty good until we started getting Low pressures systems late in the season. 3 separate storms flooded and had gale force winds in south Florida and the Keys. We had no hurricanes but some water/wind issues which just stopped everyday life.

If that wasn’t bad enough I had back and knee issues which made me take a break. I took advantage and had my boat restored during this time. My first day on the water since Thanksgiving was 12-20-23 and of course it was cold and windy. I fished Biscayne Bay although it was tough, we caught Trout, Mackerel, Jacks and jumped a 40 lb. Tarpon. It was miserable and the wind was relentless.

I am open a few days during Christmas break, it looks like some good weather coming next week. The backcountry Tarpon will show up as soon as this weather levels off. If you are interested in fishing Flamingo, Key Largo or Biscayne Bay give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Captain Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Instagram @ caught lookin charters

A little work, a little fun, and some nice fish!

I fished the patch reefs in Key Largo the last 2 weekends and had a couple good days of Yellowtail and Mutton Snapper. I fished Flamingo a couple a few days but I was down with a bad back last week.

11-25-23 I was a part of a 5-boat trip, part fishing and part Celebration of Life. It started out good with a 3 Tarpon, a bunch of Snook, Trout, Jacks, Ladyfish and a bunch of Catfish. All the boats met up at a 11 o’clock

to remember someone, I would of like to know. We finished off the day with some more fishing and more Snook. It came down pretty hard and ended the day.

This weekend we have our friends Mike and Polly at our little Key Largo get away.

Saturday morning the plan was get up early catch bait and go mutton snapper fishing, well it didn’t work out that way. The winds were a little stiff for a bay boat offshore that day. We ran into the back country, and it paid off pretty good. Mike had 3 nice Snook before I ever made a cast, all on the “NLBN “Twisted Tea paddle tail. We fished till noon, went home and waited for our sons to show up for an afternoon trip.

It was still bumpy, but we gave it a try. We did manage a few small fish and something that fought pretty good for a while but broke off. This is a view off sunset off Key Largo on our way in.

On Sunday morning the winds were strong. I was trying to come up with an idea while watching wind blow and drinking my coffee. I said let go fish the Aero Jet Canal which is on the 18-mile stretch. It worked out 20 Peacock Bass 4 Black Bass. My son saw a big Black Bass on the side of the canal. He made a cast and hooked a small Peacock Bass. The big Black Bass came up and ate it after a little fight it came loose but chased the peacock and ate him again. This was cool that fish was at least 8Lbs. It was 11 am and we were beat and hungry time to go.

If you are interested in fishing during the holidays give me a call at 305 333 8149. Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter.

Let’s go Catch’em

Capt Jim Hobales

Instagram @ Caughtlookincharters

Change in Season!

The past week or so the weather has changed. We have had hard NE winds which pushed the mullet through Biscayne Bay. I got out with my son James on a cool morning and had for the fish to wake up. We found some Snook on a sea wall chasing mullet, lucky we had NLBN lures rigged up. It didn’t take long, and James was hooked up. It was a great fight but not a giant at 28inches. There were some Tarpon and big Jacks also blowing up on the mullet which is lots off to watch. I was throwing a 5-inch NLBN and had the Jacks chasing it. I netted some mullet and headed to Government Cut and It was nasty.

It was blowing @ 20 MPH, but we were able to fish inside the rip. We had a couple big Cudas eat the first couple baits and then a hard fighter that stayed deep. It took a few minutes, but James landed a nice African Pompano. We fished around the bay chasing mullet schools. We stopped on a bar that’s been holding some nice Trout lately. We caught about 20 Trout up to 21 inches and headed back toward Haulover.

I fished with my son a bunch this week. We fished Holiday Park on last Sunday with our buddy Mike for Peacocks. The day was beautiful, and I had sat around all morning doing nothing. We got out about 2 pm and there wasn’t anyone there. We are still using the NLBN on everything that swims and they work in salt or freshwater. The water is still high out there and the fish aren’t easy, but we managed @ 30 fish between all 3 of us. We had Bass, Oscars and Blue Gils as by catch. Not to bad in 3 hours!

Peacock Bass on NLBN paddle tail!

I fished with my friend and accountant Fred this past Sunday at Flamingo. The winds have been steady 20-25 mph all week. Fred just got done with busy season and needed to get away. The morning was beautiful until a front started moving in. The moon was still up as we got out into open water, sometimes the small Tarpon will eat until it sets. Well they didn’t today, as a matter of fact. The Ladyfish were just in giant schools and not letting anything else eat. We eventually found some Snook and I had Fred hooked up to a few big back-country Goliath Groupers. They can’t refuse a live Jack but I also had one on a 5 Inch NLBN lure which was fun. None of these fish were landed today, they are just getting bigger back there.

It was along day and weather was getting nasty but we always have a good time togethe

Flamingo Lodge Opening!

A one-bedroom suite at the Flamingo Lodge. Photo: Courtesy of Flamingo Everglades Adventures

You might have heard of glamping. Now imagine sleeping in an air conditioned hotel room in the Everglades.

Driving the news: The new Flamingo Lodge & Restaurant opened today nearly 20 years after Hurricanes Katrina and Wilma destroyed the original lodge.

• The neighboring Guy Bradley Visitor Center, which was also recently reconstructed, opened this summer.

Details: The lodge — designed with climate resiliency in mind — features 24 rooms made from shipping containers that are elevated off the ground by stairs and columns.

• Each room has east-facing balconies, ideal for watching the sunrise and sunset over Florida Bay.

• The downstairs restaurant, also made from shipping containers, offers breakfast, lunch and dinner — and doubles as a bar.

If you go: Nightly rates start at $259 from November through May, plus the park entrance fee. Rates start at $159 for June through October.

• The maximum stay is 14 days.

• Boat slips are available at the Flamingo Marina and Store for those arriving by boat.

The water is cooler and the temps are getting there. Theres plenty oif fish around you just “got to go”.

If you are interested call me at 305 333 8149, Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter.

Let’s go Catch’em

Capt Jim Hobales

Instagram @ Caught Lookin Charters

Spoiled all summer, first cold front makes it tough!

The weather for last 2 months has been spectacular! We have been lucky with low winds and plenty of fish. This past week the winds turned out of SW to West and made us work for our fish. The backcountry Species are Tarpon, Snook Redfish and Trout. Anytime we are fishing the backcountry and can catch 3 of the 4 for a Slam is great, we did It 4 times out of 4 this past week. The overall numbers were low but the catches were very good.

Jack and Kevin came down from Vero Beach and met me at my house in Key Largo. Jack is like my little brother; we have been family for 55 years. We ran across to Flamingo which they had never done. We had some Snook Trout and Kevin fought a 130 lb. Tarpon for 45 minutes. Tarpon Jumped a few times and then stayed down until we got a leader release on it. We had a great day and showed them a different side of the Keys.

I am fishing with Jimmy and his son Walker today at Flamingo. We Had a nice Slam today with a 22-inch Trout, 32-inch snook and a 23-inch Redfish. We also had some other Snook and big Sharks. This was a great half day trip, exactly what Jimmy wanted for Walker. Walker left with a giant smile on his face.

Today I am with my long-time clients Ross and Mindy. On our first cast Mindy got the biggest Snook of the day. Today was the first day we started to feel the pressure of our first cold front of the season. We caught some fish today, but we worked hard for them. We caught Snook, Trout, Sharks, Tripletail, and a giant flat where the Jacks were beating the Snook to the lure. We caught about 20 Jacks all around 5 lbs. while watching the Snook swim around the edge of the flat. It was a great day with great people, hope the coach Ross has a good season. No fishing for the next 4-5 months!

I fished the Day on the Bay FNGLA Tournament with my son James and friend Mike. I have been fishing this tournament since before my guiding days. We knew today was going to be tough because of conditions. We started out with a small Tarpon to get on the board and a small Snook shortly after. The wind was easily @ 25 mph out of the West which really hurts the fishing. The one fish I knew I could catch was a monster Shark, and even that was tough. We stuck it out for a couple hours using dead cut baits, Ladyfish, Jacks and Mullet.

We went thru a bunch of fish Including 120 lb. Tarpon, threw the hook. We also caught a 24-5 “Redfish. We hooked a handful of Sharks to 6ft. but I was looking for a 10 ft. monster. We caught a 5 lb. Jack which eventually got us a 9 ft. Lemon. We spent the last hour looking for a Trout but only found Giant Tarpon blowing up on Mullet in a foot of water.

Tough Day but walked away with biggest Shark! Always a fun Tournament for a great caught

I have some open days we will have a lot going on as soon as front passes tonight, as of this writing ( 10-16-23) I got a call on how good mullet run is today.

If you are interested give me a call at 305 333 8149>

Capt .Jim Hobales .

follow on Instagram at Caught Lookin Charters

Take Stock In Children Tournament!

The "Take Stock in Children Tournament" sounds like an event focused on fundraising and support for the "Take Stock in Children" program, which is a well-known scholarship and mentoring initiative aimed at helping low-income and at-risk students achieve their educational goals. These tournaments are often organized to raise funds and awareness for the program's activities.

Fishing with my son James and Friend Mike Martin at the "Take Stock in Children Tournament" in Flamingo is an incredible experience, filled with adventure, camaraderie, and dedication to a noble cause. The early morning start in nasty lightning and ran squalls to the south of us and the 35-mile run in the dark to Flamingo was interesting.

Endurance is certainly put to the test during these long days, with around 14 hours spent on the water from the moment you depart until your return. But it's all part of the challenge and excitement that comes with such tournaments.

The unique format of the tournament, which focuses on measuring the total inches of Snook, Redfish, and Trout, adds an interesting dimension to the competition. While it's an individual event, the teamwork and collaboration between you, James, and Mike Martin exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual support that can make such tournaments truly special

The "Take Stock in Children Tournament" got off to an exciting start with your son hooking a Tarpon and Mike landing a big Jack. Those early catches must have set a positive tone for the day ahead.

Starting your fishing adventure at 6:45 a.m. while it was still on the dark side of the morning demonstrates your dedication to making the most of your time on the water. Catching a 19-inch and a 17-inch Trout early on is an excellent warm-up for what was to come.

Now, with those Trout catches out of the way, it was time to shift your focus to the Snook. Using NLBN (No Live Bait Needed) lures, specifically the "Twisted T Mullet," is a smart choice for your fishing expedition. These lures are designed to mimic natural prey and are often effective in enticing a variety of fish species, including the ones you mentioned earlier like Tarpon, Jack, Trout, and Snook.

We got on the score board with Snook next. We caught 30 or so Snook up to 27 inches and lost a couple bigger. This always hurts but we continued. The bite slowed a bit and we moved on to our Redfish spot.

This spot was on fire as well, a couple decent Snook and 9 Redfish up to 23 inches. We also had another Tarpon, a Goliath Grouper and a Tripletail. We fished that spot as long as we could without getting stuck in the shallow water. The rest of the afternoon kind of slowed down a bit with no upgrades.

Day 2

We left at 5 today and made our way over stopping in Tavernier Creek looking for a big Snook on the lighted docks. It didn’t happen and we moved on trying to repeat yesterday’s bite. We pulled up to our spot at 645a.m.. Mike had the first bite which was a giant Snook and jumped off trying to land it. It’s to bad we didn’t need Tarpon because we hooked plenty. James lost another big Snook, just couldn’t stop him once it decided to get into trees.

Right about now it’s starting to get really dark, we can see the lightning explode on the surface. We along with everyone else headed for the marina. We sat there for 45 minutes just waiting to go. We made it to our Redfish spot, but water was to high. We tried but it didn’t happen today. We went back to Snook spot and it was slow. We needed to upgrade at least 1 of our Snook or Redfish .

I netted one Mullet and cut chunks. We soaked them on the bottom of a Mullet mud. It didn’t take to long and James had a bite. It was pulling pretty good and then boiled on surface, it was a big Redfish. We netted it and it measured 28 inches. This was a big help. We had another bait out while casting to a pot hole. The rod doubled over and we thought it was a Shark until a 130 lb. Tarpon Jumped a few times. He threw the hook and they got back to casting in the pothole catching Snook after Snook. Lots of fish but all in the 24-25 range. No one complains when they are catching fish but it was getting late. We had 35 miles to go in sloppy conditions.

Couldn’t do it without help from #Biscayne Rods, #Bajio sunglasses, #Penn Reels, Pure Fishing and #NLBN,

We got lucky today, there are a lot of very good anglers in this tournament. Lots of fun and beats you up can’t wait for next year.

Fishing is good! If you would like to give it a try with me give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Let’s go Cacth’em

Capt. Jim Hobales

Instagram at Caught Lookin Charters

Smiles on faces, what it's all about!

Location: Biscayne Bay, Miami

Target Species: Mutton Snappers and Yellowjacks

Weather Conditions:

• Date: September 13, 2023

• Weather: Beautiful day with clear skies

• Temperature: A scorching 95 degrees Fahrenheit

• Wind: Calm, with virtually no breeze

Fishing Experience:

The day started early on Biscayne Bay, Miami. Captain Jim, his son James, and their trusty crew member Chungy embarked on a fishing adventure with high hopes and excitement in the air. The weather couldn't have been more perfect, with clear skies and a sun that promised a scorching day ahead.

The target for the day was Mutton Snappers and Yellowjacks, and the crew was armed with a special lure known as "No Live Bait Needed," which I just started using a week ago.

The Catch:

The fishing action kicked off quickly, with Mutton Snappers showing their interest in the "No Live Bait Needed" lure. These beautiful and tasty fish put up a good fight, showcasing their strength and agility as they were reeled in one after the other. Their distinct pinkish-red hue glistened in the bright Miami sun.

But the excitement didn't stop there. Yellowjacks, known for their spirited battles, joined the party. These feisty fighters put the crew's skills to the test, making for an exhilarating fishing experienc

The combination of perfect weather, a skilled crew, and the right equipment led to a successful fishing trip. The waters of Biscayne Bay were generous, and the Mutton Snappers and Yellowjacks were more than willing to participate in the adventure.

09-18-23

I am fishing Flamingo today with Mike Bonner. We started the day off fly fishing for Tarpon until the sun came up and put them down, we then targeted Snook. We fished a big Mullet mud which was holding Snook, big Trout and Tarpon for most of the day.

Over the years I have used the Berkeley Gulp products which really work. I have recently been introduced the NlBN {No Live Bait Needed) and been having some great results. The Snook and Tarpon really like it! The guys over at NLBN work all day fish all night. They are into it, give them a try!

09-19-23

I am fishing Key Largo today with Eric Shields and his guest, P, Martha and Jenna from Norway. We netted some live pilchard’s and went fishing. We had some good fish including Tarpon, Snook, Jacks, Snappers and Ladyfish.

Go to CaptainsforCleanWater.Org

Finished up nice morning and heading down to the Captains for Clean Water Rendezvous. They put together a real vice seminar type get together where scientist, biologist and others that are part of saving South Florida’ coastal waters. There is a lot of info on the positive side for Everglades National Park.

Fishing is pretty good in the area I cover, from N. Biscayne Bay to Key Largo and over to Flamingo. There is plenty of action, most of it before the heat gets to bad. The next few weeks should give us some cooler temps and the fish will go crazy. Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter as well as the serious angler. If you are interested in a fun fishing day give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Let’s go Catch ‘em

Capt. Jim Hobales

Instagram at Caught lookin Charters

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Business is slow, Bite is not!

August into September is usually slow, but I still fish a lot. I fish family and friends doing some R&D. I have fished from N. Biscayne Bay to Key Largo. The fish have been cooperative from Trout and Snook in north end to Mahi, Tuna, Mutton Snappers Yellowtails in the South Bay and Key Largo. Flamingo in Everglades National Park has been very productive. The Snook Bite has awesome as well as Smaller Tarpon. The Goliath Grouper is an exciting catch, the most powerful bite you can get in the Mangroves.

All fish were caught on NLBN lures todays!

I was introduced to Brandon at NLBN he took me through the warehouse and showed me the whole process, it’s Really cool. I appreciated the lesson, and he loaded me up with some of their swim baits and jigs.

I took my buddy Mike and his son Shawn to Flamingo to give these NLBN baits a try.

The sun still wasn’t up, we already had Tarpon in the air a couple of Trout and Jacks.

I was excited but it wasn’t until later that really impressed me. We caught plenty of Snook and a couple Reds up in a mullet mud, but that’s not what got me excited.

The next spot we had 3 Tarpon on the 1/8-ounce Twisted T. But still not convinced!

There was still more to come, we went back toto another mullet mud and it didn’t take long. Shawn had the hot hand all day and was consistently hooked up. I was just watching to see his technique. The 3 of us sat there for an hour and half catching Snook after Snook and a couple 70lb Tarpon mixed in.

I’m totally impressed at a few things. The jigs are totally solid with a corkscrew, this keeps the bait on all day unless a Shark or big Jack eats it deep. The bait allows you to use a lighter weight jig in shall water. It seemed to swim across the bottom pretty good without snagging grass.

I’m totally impressed and will throw this lure on my trips!

Scroll down you will see where I have been, if you like what You see we can do it!

Give me a call at 305 333 8149 and arrange a trip. Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter bring the wife and kids.

Let’s go Catch’em

Capt. Jim Hobales

Instagram @ caught lookin charters

Still Slamin every trip!

The species are here in good numbers, when that happens, we try to catch all of them. The backcountry fish that make up the Slam are 3 of the 4, Tarpon, Snook, Redfish and Trout. If you are lucky enough to catch all 4 it is a Grand Slam. In the last couple months, we have slammed on almost every trip.

The fishing is so good I hate to miss a day but it’s a very hot summer, I know a lot of guys that just won’t do it.

The Tarpon are thick and hitting assorted lures, I use the Berkley Swimming Mullet and a weedless Fluke. There are plenty of good lures, but floating grass has been a problem so no treble hooks.

The numbers are good lots of Snook and Redfish and throw in a handful of Trout. The Sharks are out of control. We have to muscle the fish in, otherwise they will get bit by a Shark.

The fishing is really good and the rids stay bent, if this is something you would like to try give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Let’s go catch ‘em

Capt. Jm Hobales

Instagram @caught lookin charters

Brutally Hot, Fishing is on Fire!

0713/23

Today I am fishing the BBI -Hooked on Kids- Sheridan House Key Largo Classic. Wednesday nights Captains meeting was incredible great buffet, great band and a giant silent auction. Im fishing with Brett, Matt and Corbin Alshire we met up early for the 38-mile run we had. Once we got there the bite was on. Snook, Trout, Jacks and Ladyfish got us started until the tide started moving in. The tide was getting higher and the Tarpon started rolling but only slapped at our lures.

Once the tide got up there were Taron everywhere in a big Mullet mud. We casted at rolling Tarpon only to catch Redfish. We had them 2 and 3 at a time. The Tarpon kept rolling Matt and Corbin both hooked up at the same time, while Brett had a Redfish. This was crazy 5 minutes. Matt landed his Tarpon and we Broke Corbin s off while being chase by a Shark. (Video Above)

We did this for a couple hours and were exhausted from catching fish in 95 degree temperature. We wanted to get the most species trophy, so we went looking for a mangrove Snapper. Dont you know we found the mother lode of snappers. Cornbin caught a 13-inch Snapper which won big Snapper along with most Species. Great day they caught 2 Tarpon allot of Snook and Redfish to 26 inches and a bunch of Trout, Jacks and Ladyfish. What a great day we walked away we 3 awards for Snapper, Species and Big Redfish not to mention 2 Grands Slams. All of this and then a killer lunch at the awards. This is a tough job some days!

Lets go Catch em

Capt. Jim Hobales

Instagram @ caught lookin charters

07/13/23

"Slammin" in thePark!

07-06-23

The last few days have been fun fishing. I fished with 2 of my favorite people, Ross and Mindy on Thursday at Flamingo. Ross loves Tarpon and we were able to hook a few. We doubled up first thing. Ross was throwing a Berkley Gulp Swimming Mullet and I had a live Mullet drifting off the back of the boat.

Ross stayed hooked up and landed the 35lb Tarpon and the second fish threw the bait. We had several other blow ups but only landed the one Tarpon. We also had a few Snook, Trout, Jacks, Ladyfish and of course the Sharks were everywhere. We had a real nice bite of Snook later in the afternoon out on the coast

We had 25 Snook or so to the boat by tightening the drags and pulling the fish across the surface so Sharks wouldn’t get one.

We went and played with some hard fighting Goliath Groupers. First up Ross got a 8 lb. fish and then Mindy had a !5 lb. drag puller. Mindy’s all of 100 pounds but she landed he fish. ( I can’t get the picture to download). We ended the day casting a couple more Tarpon but with 94-degree and 97-degree air no fish wanted to play.. Great day, 2 anglers - 2 Slams!

07-08-23

I got a call from Mike Green asking how fishing was? He was staying in Key Largo with his buddies Travis and Phil. He was interested in Tarpon so I told him I had some that would eat but we had to be early. I explained after about 8:30 the shutdown. He said being early isn’t a problem. We met at my house in Key Largo and left at 6 a.m. We ran to Flamingo, as we pulled up Tarpon were everywhere. Mie gad the tarpon touch hooking a few but just couldn’t get them to stay hooked up. The fish ate a few different lures Gulp Swimming Mullet, Rapala Twitch n Rap, a Yozuri Prizm minnow and a pinfish. There was some other action as well the Snook bite turned on when tide switched and started to go out. The Snook numbers were incredible and couldn’t keep count. The Trout also made an appearance, we caught 6 up to 3 lbs. Phil caught the first Redfish quietly off the back of the boat. Phil was the first Slam of the day, but it didn’t stop there.

We worked the same area for a few a hours so I asked if they would like to try something else. I explained the scenario to them and just throw down the edge of the channel, they will be in the Mullet schools. It really went off over 30-Redfish some Snook. Some kids were watching from across the channel so told them to go in front of me. I was getting ready to leave so I shared the wealth. It was hot and action was on fire. we called it a day and had a long ride back to Key Largo. This was an incredible day, 6 SLAMS!

Great half day trips!

The backcountry is alive right now with Tarpon, Snook, some Redfish. and assorted other species. In 5 hour trips we are hooking 30 to 50 Tarpon per trip and there are plenty of Snook mixed in. It a good trip for people who either can’t fish all day or have some where to be later on in the day. We dont waste allot of time running around.

Paul and his son Jonathan had a great trip on Father’s day. It took a while to find them but when we did nonstop Tarpon/Snook bite for a couple hours.

A couple days later I fished with Gavin and Brook. Today we found a giant school and every cast all day long was a bite. it was 2 at a time as fast as I could release them. The funny thing about catching this many fish is that the anglers get tired and that’s what I shoot for.

If have a day catching fish until you cant is what you are looking for give me a call at 305 333 8149. Flamingo and Key Largo and Biscayne Bay Trips available.

Let’s go Catch’ em

Capt. Jim Hobales

Instagram @ caught lookin charters

Tuna's, Mahi's, Snook, Tarpon Plenty of fun!

If you are interested in catching fish and having a good time doing it give me a call at 305 333 8149. Key Largo, Biscayne Bay and Flamingo trips available. Fishing has been good in the last 2 weeks should stay that way.

Let’s go Catch em

Capt Jim Hobales

Instagram @ caught lookin charters

Flamingo was Red Hot this week!

Flamingo was Red Hot this week, I was down there 4 days and caught everything that swims.

On Monday and Tuesday, I fished with Paul Davis His friends Mie and John. Paul grew up across the street from me growing up, his brother Bobby was actually my best man at my wedding. Its been 40 or so years since we have seen each other.

They caught Snook, Trout, Redfish Sharks, Ladyfish Jacks, and Snappers. It was fun day; on Tuesday we went into Whitewater Bay. We found some small Tarpon on the way out. We caught 2 for 4. Once the sun came out, they disappeared. They all caught their first Snook, Redfish and Trout. Mike caught his Tarpon and Snook on Fly.

We made a few stops caught several species and found some pilchards and Mullet. We did some live chumming out on the coast and got the fish in a frenzy. We had 1 nice fish on and it was eaten by a Shark that we couldn't stop. We bounced around to all my Snook spots catching some Trout and eventually hooking a couple big Goliath Groupers. They were big and got into the mangrove roots leaving a stunned look on their faces. After 2 long days they said lets go they had enough! They caught a lot of species and had a great first trip to Flamingo.

On Saturday I fished the ABC Contractors Tournament out of the Lorelie in Islamorada. I had Mike Senecal his wife Sara, his daughter Kiley and Jason a business partner. we made the run from the Lorelie to a spot that had Tarpon the day before. They weren’t there we arrived but showed up later. In the meantime, we caught Snook, Trout, jacks we also had some sharks come eat a couple baits. We did have a Tarpon eat a bait but didn’t hold on to it.

I had to catch the incoming tide for my Redfish spot. When we got there, we had to wait a bit. Tide came up and Kiley had the hot hand. She had a Snook, a 5lb Redfish and then a 1lb Redfish. We had a few more Snook and then Jason caught a nice 28-inch Snook. It slowed down and the ladies were hot. We decided to head back with one more stop. The last stop was the bite were looking for all day. I had about 10 Horse Pilchards left. The first was eaten by a big Lemon Shark, then Jason caught a 29-inch Snook. We missed a couple until Sara got a good one on our last bait. It was a 28-inch Snook and after that every ne was ready to cool down on the ride back. This was a very enjoyable day. Everyone held their own with pretty good casting skills. When it was all over Kiley won Most Redfish in the Jr. division.

Fishing will continue to be good all summer out of Flamingo, they like it when it’s hot. I will also be doing some patch reef trips out of Key Largo as well as my back country trips. If you have an interest in some back country fishing give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Let’s go Catch’ em

Capt. Jim Hobales

Instagram @ caught lookin charters

Snook were biting this week!

050223

I had 2 good days at Flamingo this week and then headed to Key largo for a couple days. I fished with long time customers and friends Bob and Charlie Tuesday. There weren’t many people around. We started out with a Trout bite in Coot Bay and then worked our way north. Had a few Snook bites in Whitewater Bay along with some more Trout. I went to my bait spot and found Mullet and some Pilchards. The next stop was to get a couple Goliaths. Charlie was first and had the one in the picture below. A 25 lb. Goliath followed it up and tried to inhale it. Charlie pulled it away and we landed the Goliath. I rigged another bait and Bob pitched it into the hole they live in and got the 25 lb. Goliath. They were pumped! I said I got another spot. We went over and cast Berkely Gulp swimming Mullets into another hole and Charlie hooked another Goliath. It was time to move on we had a couple good bites only to lose them. We finally found the motherload in a creek in the Gulf, we caught Snook for a couple hours. We were fishing live mullet and had our share of Sharks but also jumped a 80 Tarpon. It was a long day, everyone was beat so we headed in.

050323

Today I finally fish with the Goodyear tire group, this trip has taken 10 months to get done. We had Hurricane Ian cancel in Sept and another cancellation in Jan. It finally came together today, and I got 3 other captains helping out. We all set out to out-do each other. The fishing was good for all of us, the Goodyear group caught Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Sharks, Jacks, ladyfish, Cobia and Goliath Grouper as a group. Thanks to Capt. Nestor Alvisa, Capt. Mike Hutchison and Capt. Alan Sherman for making it a great day!

Fishing is good right now and will stay that way all summer, If you are interested give me a call at 305 333 8149. Caught lookin charters is a family friendly charter company. I fish Everglades National Park, Biscayne Bay and Key Largo. Give me a call if you want to have a good day catching fish.

Let’s go Catch’ em

Capt. Jim Hobales

Follow on Instagram @ Caught lookin charters

Trout/Snook bite is good.

I fished Biscayne Bay and Flamingo in the last few days and they both produced a lot of Trout and Snook .

There are Mullet schools in both places which in turn brings hungry fish.

In north Biscayne Bay the mullet were pouring down the intercoastal. They were schooled up on the flat I was fishing for Trout. Brian and Mark were double up on every cast for 90 minutes with fish up to 21 inches.

I had them throwing the 3 inch Berkely gulp Swimming Mullet, you cant beat this lure catches everything. I did have a live well full of mullet which we used for Snook. We were kind of in a hurry because they had had a flight to catch. Every mullet we used got eaten. We also had a school of 25 lb. Jacks that weren’t interested in the bait, but the 5 lb. Jacks were. Mark got a nice Snook after 3 blow ups and a couple missed fish. It was on fire, and we had to leave.

I fished with long time client and great friend Ross and his buddy Danny down at Flamingo. The morning started out with a giant thunderstorm making its way across Fl. Bay. I wasn’t sure how long we would be able to fish but it cleared up and was beautiful the rest of the day. The Snook bite early was good, but we moved on the Tarpon which were rolling everywhere. The Ladyfish weren’t helping us beating the Tarpon to the lure on most cast. Ladyfish, Jacks and Trout kept the rods bent while throwing at Tarpon.

We had some good fish that got into the Mangroves and a couple others the pulled drag and just let go. Danny also caught an 8 ft Sawfish which put on a show boatside.

I also fish for fun offshore on Saturday with friends Mike and Ken. We looked for Mahi’s but didn’t find them.

We did find Blackfin Tuna, Bonita, Yellow Jacks, Yellowtails, Trigger fish. We also had a big Black Grouper eat a Yellowtail while reeling it in, it held on right up to the boat.

I am doing the reef charters in Key Largo now if you would like to catch dinner. The Snook and Tarpon are # 1 targets right now . If any of these species appeal to you give me a call at 305 33 8149. Caught Lookin Charters if a family friendly charter.

Let’s go Catch’ em

Capt. Jim Hobales,

Follow on Instagram @ caught lookin charters

Caught some fish this week in Flamingo

This week I fished Flamingo, Key Largo. The Tarpon were thick at Flamingo although finicky. we eventually on caught them on a couple different fishing trips.

Louie and his 2 brother in laws Ian and Brandon had an incredible day. Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Black Drum, Jacks Ladyfish, Snappers, Sharks and Goliath bites but sometimes you don’t get them to the boat. This was a allot of catching today!

Fished offshore Key Largo for Dolphin caught a couple for dinner!

Key Largo patch reefs with my wife and sister. first drop my sister caught a keeper Red Grouper, 2 weeks from now it would of been dinner!

Back to Flamingo on Sunday with Dennis. We started outlooking for Tarpon that were there a couple days ago. They were there just not showing themselves. They finally made an appearance but not eating. Ran to a second spot and they were rolling in slick calm water. We made a drift thru throwing a DOA Baitbuster nd dragging a pinfish behind the boat. The pinfish worked and we were hooked up to an 80 lb. jumper. Dennis was happy. and the Tarpon wasn’t. He fought it for 20 minutes and had him near the boat but threw the hook when he jumped. We got back on the fish but they were moving around. Dennis hooked a couple others but they didn’t last too long.

We spent the rest of the day catching Snook and Jacks, they were mixed in together. Plenty of catching today!

I’m fishing the Aero Jet canal today for Peacocks. It started out slow but we found a few Peacocks along with Black Bass, Cyclids and Oscars.

If you want to catch fish in the Everglades, Key Largo and Flamingo area, give me a call at 305 333 8149, It is really good right now. Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter company.

Let’s go Catch’ em!

Capt. Jim Hobales

follow on Instagram @ caught lookin charters