Offshore Fishing...Where to go???

[FishNette]

I will have a couple of days off next week and want to try some offshore fishing for Red Snapper. Where are some good places to go past the Galveston jetties? Which direction should I go once past the jetties? I have never taken my boat offshore, but it is a very capable 24 vessel. Any suggestions/help would be great. I'm shooting for July 5th, but will wait to see the weather forecasts. I might even give a seasoned offshore angler a ride if anyone is interested. Let me know.

Thanks!

[Muddskipper]

What kind of GPS do you have?

[FishNette]

I have a Hummingbird 583c GPS / fishfinder combo.

[WestEndAngler]

I'll shoot you some spots to try after this weekend. Just remember the first 10-15 miles can be bumpy through the washing machine.

[Robalo]

The old Bucs are 32 miles basically on a 180 heading from the end of the south Jetty-also Heald bank is about 30 miles but more easterly (140 or 160?). get yourself an Offshore Map-it will help tremendously-also, ya may wanna buy Rik Jacobson's Red Snapper book.

Please make sure you file a float plan and when expected back with your family so your loved ones will know when to possibly call the USCG (not meaning anything bad by that, but one should always do that). Make sure your VHF Radio is working, pay attention to your compass and do not just rely on your GPS and watch for floating debris/trees, etc. that can pierce your hull. Double check your gas, oil, safety gear and make sure you have a Ditch bag with essentials such as a waterproof handheld VHF, mirror, waterproof flashlight, etc.. A SPOT or EPIRB is dang smart! Dyes, plenty of ice/water and some extra foodstuff, check your flares also. Be prepared for squalls and have some raingear stowed away-those big drops in high wind get cold even in 99 degree weather. Carry extra rope and oil, and plugs and prop and anchor just in case.

Good luck and good fishing.

[Texfish]

Really good advice above.

[Muddskipper]

I have a Hummingbird 583c GPS / fishfinder combo.

reason I ask is my garmin has all of the numbers for Hiltons and rik Jacobson books in it ... took me 40 hours to put them all in ...

I generally take it with me on boats that have a garmin on it .... as it's a simple plug in and you are good to go

[FishNette]

Thanks guys! Good info.

I'll be looking for your post after the weekend, Coe. Thanks

[SCHU]

If you've never taken the boat offshore, try to pick a day that is not rough so you know how the boat handles. Pay attention to the compass and NEVER doubt it! See if you can find a buddy boat to tag along with. Also what Robalo said, just remember that the gulf is unforgivable and you don't get second chances. Keep a weather eye out and the other on the gas Gage . Have fun and good luck!