5 Reviews
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The Calamus Bajonado belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sparidae. It typically measures between 14 and 20 inches in length, with a weight range from 13 to 18 lbs. Habitat: offshore, nearshore, reefs. - Popular gamefish in western Atlantic waters. - Known for feisty fighting ability despite smaller size. - Feeds by "jolting" mollusks from rocky structure.
Captain Neil Linkmeyer of Palm Beach Charters on Wednesday November delivered another successful offshore fishing charter targeting Atlantic Sailfish and local reef species in West Palm Beach waters. This 4-hour guided trip combines trolling patterns for pelagics with bottom fishing techniques over productive reef structure, consistently producing Jolthead Porgy, Grey Triggerfish, and various snapper species. West Palm Beach offshore waters offer year-round action with clean conditions and active current keeping fish feeding throughout the fall season. The charter includes all bait, tackle, and fishing licenses for up to three guests, providing personalized instruction suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers seeking trophy sailfish or quality reef fish.
Captain Neil Linkmeyer of Palm Beach Charters on Wednesday November runs this 4-hour offshore fishing charter targeting Atlantic Sailfish and reef species for $800 per trip, accommodating up to three guests with all bait, tackle, and licenses included. The licensed captain brings extensive local knowledge of West Palm Beach offshore waters, working both trolling spreads for pelagics and bottom rigs over productive reef structure. Early morning departures maximize fishing time during peak feeding periods, with flexible targeting based on seasonal conditions and guest preferences. Book online or call for current availability and weather updates.
This personalized charter delivers consistent action across multiple species, from trophy Atlantic Sailfish to quality reef fish like Jolthead Porgy and various snappers. The combination of trolling techniques and bottom fishing ensures productive trips regardless of conditions, while the three-guest limit provides hands-on instruction and plenty of rod time. West Palm Beach's reef systems hold incredible variety, with clean water and active current creating ideal feeding conditions throughout the fall season.
Captain Neil's local expertise shines through strategic spot selection and technique adaptation, whether working the deep water for sailfish or targeting specific reef structure for bottom species. All equipment is provided and maintained to tournament standards, ensuring reliable performance when fish are on the line.
Jolthead Porgy thrive in West Palm Beach's offshore reef environment, where they feed aggressively on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish around hard bottom structure. These feisty fighters are most active during cooler months when water temperatures drop slightly, making November an excellent time to target them. Captain Neil positions over specific reef areas where current and structure combine to concentrate bait, using bottom rigs with cut bait or small jigs to entice strikes from these tasty reef dwellers.
The charter includes a well-equipped offshore boat with all necessary safety equipment, quality rods and reels, fresh bait, and tackle selection suited for both trolling and bottom fishing. Early morning departures from West Palm Beach marina maximize fishing time during prime feeding periods, with the captain providing instruction on techniques and fish handling throughout the trip. Guests should bring sunscreen, snacks, and beverages, while the boat provides cooler space for keeping your catch fresh.
The Jolthead Porgy (Calamus bajonado) is a prized member of the Sparidae family, order Perciformes, known for its distinctive feeding behavior and excellent table fare. This western Atlantic species gets its name from the unique way it "jolts" mollusks and crustaceans from rocky surfaces, making it a fascinating target for West Palm Beach anglers this November.
Jolthead Porgy are robust reef fish that combine excellent eating quality with surprising fighting ability for their size. Anglers value them for their firm, white meat and the challenge they present when hooked over hard bottom structure. These fish are most commonly encountered in 40-120 feet of water around West Palm Beach's extensive reef systems.
These fish inhabit offshore, nearshore, and reef environments throughout the western Atlantic, with West Palm Beach waters providing ideal habitat along the continental shelf. They prefer hard bottom areas with coral heads, rocky outcroppings, and artificial reefs where their preferred prey of mollusks and crustaceans concentrate.
Typical Jolthead Porgy range from 14 to 20 inches in length, weighing between 13 and 18 pounds at maturity. Larger specimens over 18 pounds are considered trophy fish and represent excellent catches for reef fishing enthusiasts.
These fish feed primarily on mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish, using their powerful jaws to crush shells and extract meat from hard-bodied prey. They're most active during daylight hours, particularly early morning and late afternoon when current flow concentrates food sources around reef structure.
Spawning typically occurs during warmer months, with fish aggregating over specific reef areas. During November in West Palm Beach waters, post-spawn fish are actively feeding to rebuild energy reserves, making them more aggressive toward baited hooks.
Bottom fishing with cut bait, small jigs, or live shrimp produces consistent results when targeting Jolthead Porgy. Captain Neil positions over productive reef structure using GPS coordinates, dropping baits to the bottom and maintaining contact with the structure. In November around West Palm Beach, these fish respond well to fresh cut bait fished on circle hooks with enough weight to hold bottom in current.
Jolthead Porgy are considered excellent table fare, with firm, white meat that's mild in flavor and versatile in preparation. The flesh is lean and high in protein while being relatively low in mercury, making it a healthy choice for regular consumption. Popular cooking methods include grilling, baking, and pan-searing.
Q: What is the best bait for Jolthead Porgy?
A: Cut bait such as squid, shrimp, or small fish works best, along with live or fresh dead shrimp. These fish have strong jaws designed for crushing shells, so they readily take substantial baits.
Q: Where can I find Jolthead Porgy near West Palm Beach?
A: Look for them around reef structure in 40-120 feet of water, particularly areas with hard bottom, coral heads, and artificial reefs where their preferred prey concentrates.
Q: Is Jolthead Porgy good to eat?
A: Yes, they're considered excellent table fare with firm, white meat that's mild in flavor and suitable for various cooking methods including grilling, baking, and pan-searing.
Q: When is the best time to catch Jolthead Porgy?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during daylight hours produce the best results, particularly during cooler months like November when fish are actively feeding over reef structure.
Captain Neil runs a well-maintained offshore fishing boat equipped for both trolling and bottom fishing in West Palm Beach waters. The vessel comfortably accommodates up to three guests with plenty of deck space for fighting fish, quality rod holders for multiple lines, and a large cooler for keeping your catch fresh. All safety equipment meets Coast Guard requirements, while the electronics package includes GPS and fish finder for locating productive reef structure and pelagic schools.