Florida · Tampa Bay
AMBERJACK FISHING
IN CLEARWATER
Clearwater is a solid destination for amberjack fishing, with peak season in June and good catches in April, May, July. Book a charter and target amberjack with local experts.
About Amberjack Fishing in Clearwater
The "reef donkey." Incredibly powerful fish found on deep reefs and wrecks. Known for brutal fights.
Greater Amberjack — nicknamed "reef donkeys" — are arguably the most powerful fish on Gulf reefs. These muscular, hard-fighting bruisers are found around deep wrecks, reefs, and oil platforms, and they use structure to their advantage by diving into the wreck once hooked. Amber-gold sides, a dark olive back, and a distinctive dark diagonal bar running through the eye to the dorsal fin make them easy to identify. They are relentless fighters that test tackle and angler endurance to the limit.
Scientific name: Seriola dumerili
Amberjack Seasonal Calendar — Clearwater
Month-by-month availability for amberjack in Clearwater, FL.
How to Catch Amberjack in Clearwater
Techniques & Bait
Live bait (blue runners, hardtails, pinfish) freelined or on a knocker rig near wrecks and reefs in 100-200+ feet is the top technique. Drop the bait to the top of the structure and hold on. Vertical jigging with heavy butterfly or speed jigs (200-400g) is extremely effective and has revolutionized amberjack fishing. Large topwater plugs and poppers can draw amberjack to the surface during feeding frenzies. The key is getting them away from structure immediately — heavy tackle and an aggressive hookset are essential.
Recommended Tackle
Heavy conventional rod (5'6"-6 ft), reel loaded with 65-80 lb braid, 80-100 lb fluorocarbon leader, 7/0-9/0 circle or J-hooks. Stand-up gear recommended. This is NOT a light-tackle species.
Best Nearshore Fishing Spots in Clearwater
Top spots where local captains target amberjack and other nearshore species.
Clearwater Pass
Clearwater Pass connects Clearwater Harbor to the Gulf of Mexico, producing strong tidal currents that attract snook, tarpon, and Spanish mackerel. The pass jetties and bridge pilings hold sheepshead, mangrove snapper, and flounder year-round. Spring tarpon fishing at Clearwater Pass is legendary among local charter captains.
Pier 60
Pier 60 extends from Clearwater Beach into the Gulf, providing shore-based access to nearshore species including Spanish mackerel, pompano, and king mackerel. The pier is famous for its sunset celebrations and its productive fishing, especially during spring and fall migrations. Cobia and tarpon are spotted from the pier during their seasonal runs along the beach.
Pinellas County Nearshore Reefs
Pinellas County maintains numerous artificial reef sites within a few miles of Clearwater Beach, holding red grouper, gag grouper, and snapper. These nearshore reefs sit in 20-50 feet of water and are accessible on quick half-day trips from Clearwater marinas. The reef program is one of the most extensive and well-documented in the state.
Honeymoon Island State Park
The shoreline and nearshore waters around Honeymoon Island offer wadeable fishing for snook, redfish, and pompano from the beach. The island's northern point attracts tarpon and cobia during seasonal migrations. The deeper water just off the island's Gulf side holds Spanish mackerel and king mackerel, accessible by short boat rides from Clearwater.
Other Species in Clearwater
More fish you can target while visiting Clearwater.
Amberjack Fishing in Clearwater — FAQ
The peak months for Amberjack fishing in Clearwater are June. During these months, Amberjack are most active and abundant in the Clearwater area.
Amberjack fishing charters in Clearwater are typically nearshore trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Live bait (blue runners, hardtails, pinfish) freelined or on a knocker rig near wrecks and reefs in 100-200+ feet is the top technique. Drop the bait to the top of the structure and hold on. Vertical jigging with heavy butterfly or speed jigs (200-400g) is extremely effective and has revolutionized amberjack fishing. Large topwater plugs and poppers can draw amberjack to the surface during feeding frenzies. The key is getting them away from structure immediately — heavy tackle and an aggressive hookset are essential.
No — when you book a charter in Clearwater, your captain provides all required Florida fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Amberjack regulations in Florida include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Amberjack in Clearwater, you may also catch Snook, Redfish, Sheepshead, Speckled Trout, King Mackerel. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
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