Ready for a serious day on the water chasing one of the ocean's most prized catches? Captain Ricky's 12-hour Swordfish charter out of Florida is the real deal. We're talking about dedicating a full day to targeting these deep-water giants, with all the gear and know-how you need to increase your odds of success. Whether you're a seasoned angler or looking to land your first sword, this trip is tailored to give you the best shot at battling one of these incredible fish.
You'll meet Captain Ricky at the dock bright and early, kicking things off at 7 AM. The boat's prepped and loaded with top-notch gear specifically rigged for deep-dropping swordfish. As we head out, you'll get the lowdown on the day's game plan and some pointers on the techniques we'll be using. It's a full 12 hours on the water, so come prepared with snacks, drinks, and anything else you might need to stay comfortable. We'll be focusing on swordfish, but keep your eyes peeled - the deep waters off Florida are full of surprises, and you never know what might decide to crash the party.
Swordfishing isn't your average day of dropping lines over the side. We're talking about some serious deep-water action, often fishing anywhere from 1,200 to 2,000 feet down. Captain Ricky's got you covered with specialized deep drop rigs, heavy-duty electric reels, and the bait that swordfish can't resist. You'll learn the art of reading the sonar, placing baits at the right depth, and the patience it takes to wait for that telltale bite. When a sword does hit, get ready for a workout - these fish don't give up easily, and the fight to the surface can be an epic battle of endurance.
While every trip is different, we've been on a hot streak lately. Just last week, a group landed a 300-pounder after a two-hour fight that had everyone on board cheering. Another recent highlight was a double hookup - two swords on at the same time, keeping the whole crew on their toes. Even when the swords are playing hard to get, we've been bringing up some impressive deep-water species like barrel fish and queen snapper that make for great eating.
Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) are the stars of this show, and for good reason. These prehistoric-looking predators are some of the fastest, strongest fish in the sea, capable of growing over 1,000 pounds. They're found in the deep, cold waters off Florida year-round, but tend to be most active in the warmer months. What makes swordfish so exciting is their unpredictable nature - one minute your bait's sitting quietly, the next you're locked in a battle with a fish that can dive hundreds of feet in seconds. Their meat is also considered some of the best-eating in the ocean, prized for its firm texture and mild flavor.
While we're laser-focused on swords, don't be surprised if we tangle with some other deep-water monsters. Wreckfish, with their bulky bodies and powerful pulls, often hang around the same depths. You might also encounter the bizarre-looking oilfish, known for their slick, oily skin and hard fights. And if we're really lucky, we could even hook into a rare lancetfish, with their sail-like dorsal fins and needle-sharp teeth.
There's something addictive about swordfishing that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the anticipation as you watch that rod tip, waiting for it to suddenly spring to life. Or the rush when a big sword decides to go airborne, leaping clear of the water in a spectacular display. For many, it's the challenge - swordfishing tests your patience, skill, and stamina like few other types of fishing. And let's not forget the bragging rights that come with landing one of these majestic creatures. Whether you're after your first sword or your fiftieth, each trip offers a new adventure and the chance to create lasting memories.
If you're itching to test your skills against one of the ocean's top predators, Captain Ricky's 12-hour swordfish charter is calling your name. With room for up to six anglers, it's perfect for a group of friends or family looking for a day of serious fishing action. Remember, while deposits are refundable up to 24 hours before the trip, spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. So don't wait - reach out to Big Buford Sportfishing today and lock in your date for an unforgettable day chasing swords in the deep blue waters off Florida. Who knows? You might just be the next angler posing with a monster swordfish at the dock. Tight lines and see you on the water!
Swordfish are real monsters of the deep, averaging 9 feet long and 400 pounds. These solitary predators hang out in warm waters around 1500 feet down, but they'll come up shallower at night to feed. We usually find them off Florida year-round, with peak season April through September. Folks love targeting swordfish for the challenge and their incredible strength. When you hook one, be ready for an epic battle - they're lightning fast and can hit 60 mph. Plus, that firm white meat makes fantastic steaks. To land a big one, we'll use heavy gear with 80-120 lb line. I like to drop squid baits deep with LED lights to attract them. Here's a local trick: try chunked barracuda if the squid aren't working. Just be patient - sometimes it takes hours to get a bite, but man is it worth it when that rod doubles over.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 450