Cubera Snapper Fishing in Miami
Lutjanus cyanopterus
Cubera are the largest snapper in the Atlantic and a true trophy. They live on deep wrecks and ledges and gather to spawn in summer. Hooking one means a heavy fight close to structure. Most large cubera are released.
Quick facts
Large fish are 3 feet long or more.
True giants are caught every year.
They have strong teeth.
They hide in structure.
Deep wrecks and ledges.
Where to catch them off Miami
Deep wrecks
Sunken ships off Miami.
Ledges
Deep rocky ledges.
Spawning sites
Deep reef areas in summer.
Season in Miami
How to read this meter
- PPeak best time to catch
- FFair can catch
- OOff rarely caught
- CClosed season, no harvest
Cubera are caught all year, with the best chances during the summer spawn.
Best time and conditions
Summer
Fish gather to spawn around the full moon.
Night
Many big fish are hooked after dark.
Techniques and baits
Live bait
Large live baits near the bottom.
Heavy tackle
Needed to pull them from structure.
Lobster or crab
Their favourite food.
Careful release
Venting or descending big fish.
Top baits and lures
- Live lobster
- Crabs
- Blue runners
- Mullet
Florida regulations
Cubera over 30 inches do not count toward the snapper aggregate. On a Salty Fresh charter, your fishing license is included.
FWC: Snapper rules · Last checked October 27, 2026
On the table
Smaller cubera are good to eat. Most large fish are released.
Which charter is best?
Saltwater Inshore
- $650 per trip
- 4 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 4 guests
- Also targets Snook, Tarpon, Barracuda, Snapper, Schoolmaster Snapper, Grouper, Hogfish, Grunt, Amberjack and Almaco Jack
Spearfishing
- $850 per trip
- 4 hours, 8:00 AM start
- Up to 6 guests
- Also targets Hogfish, Snapper, Grouper and Amberjack
Cubera Snapper FAQ
When is cubera snapper season in Miami?
All year, with the best fishing in summer.
How many cubera can I keep?
Fish must be at least 12 inches. No more than 2 over 30 inches per person or per boat.
How big do cubera get?
They are the largest snapper, and some exceed 60 lb.
What do cubera eat?
Lobster, crabs and fish.
Which charter is best for cubera?
The Inshore trip, or Spearfishing for experienced divers.
Can I cancel my trip?
Free cancellation up to 3 days (72 hours) before your trip. This applies to every trip, including iguana hunts and snorkeling. To cancel, call Capt. Charles at (305) 972-5659 or email saltyfreshfishingcharters@gmail.com.