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JY Reef: Father-Son Fishing Day Turns into a Sea Adventure

Jeff Rickard

Jeff and his dad venture to JY Reef, battling seasickness and swells while making unforgettable memories fishing with David.

Ah, JY Reef fishing adventure—17.5 nautical miles east of St. Catherine's Island, where the ocean floor doubles as an underwater junkyard museum. I joined my dad, Roger, and our friend David for what we hoped would be a routine JY Reef fishing adventure. Instead, we got rolling seas, subway cars beneath the waves, and a healthy dose of seasickness that tested our mettle.


Before you go ahead, check out our experience of bonding and fishing together on YouTube:

JY Reef with Dad and David

An Underwater Graveyard… With Benefits

JY Reef isn't your run‑of‑the‑mill reef. At 55–75 feet down, you'll find subway cars, M‑60 battle tanks, and even a Liberty ship resting on sand and coral, providing perfect structure for lionfish, snapper, and groupers. Casting over these relics during our JY Reef fishing adventure felt like dropping lines into history itself.


When the Ocean Puts You to the Test

No JY Reef fishing adventure description is complete without mentioning the swells—on our trip, they ranged from 4 to 6 feet. Let's just say I learned the hard way that seasickness is an essential rite of passage. Ginger snaps, ginger ale, and over‑the‑counter Dramamine are your best friends out here. Focus on the horizon, resist the urge to stare at your rod tip, and pack extra barf bags—trust me.


Patience, Persistence, and Payoff

Once I rallied, Dad and David kept the lines in the water, guiding the boat over submerged iron giants. The anticipation of a tug against the current made every wobble worthwhile. And when the reel finally screamed, it wasn’t the size of the fish that mattered—it was the high‑fives, the shared adrenaline, and Dad’s booming laugh as he reminded me, “It’s about the story, not the size.”


Lessons from the Deep

Our JY Reef fishing adventure taught us more than how to handle big swells. It reminded us that family bonds strengthen when you survive the absurd, like cheering a keeper grouper off the rail while dodging rogue waves. And even if your stomach stages a revolt, the memories of sunlit waters and shared jokes will outlast any queasy moment.


Tackle Your Trip: Our Gear Picks

Every great JY Reef fishing adventure needs a little backup from quality gear. Whether you're battling swells or wrestling a grouper, the right tools can make all the difference. Here's what we packed (and wish we had packed) on our trip:

  • PENN Wrath II Spinning Combo: Compact, sturdy, and perfect for reef trips where space is tight but performance still matters.

  • Automatic Fishing Float: Ideal for detecting subtle bites even when the boat's rocking. A lifesaver when your attention span is distracted by nausea.

  • Fishing Rod Holder: Keeps your rod secure and ready for action while you reach for ginger ale—or the railing.

  • Backpack Cooler: Because nothing's better than chilled snacks and drinks when the sun's blazing and your sea legs are questionable.


Plan Your Fishing Charter with Ease

If you're ready to elevate this day to a fully guided fishing trip—skip the prep and go straight to the catch:

FishingBooker lets you:

  • Browse and book from charters across Marathon and the Keys

  • Access captain profiles and real reviews to pick the right fit

  • Reserve with a small deposit—pay the rest on the day of your trip

Turn your fishing vision into reality here:


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Conclusion & Next Steps

Ready to craft your own JY Reef fishing adventure (or any coastal expedition)? We’re here to help you plan, pack, and smile through the swells.


Whether you haul in dinner or just stories, every JY Reef fishing adventure is a chance to laugh, learn, and connect with those who matter most. Tight lines—and smooth seas—await!

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