Schoolmaster Snapper Fishing in Miami
Lutjanus apodus
Schoolmasters are yellow-finned snapper that live in schools around reefs, rocks and mangroves. They are common in Miami and fun on light tackle, and they make a good meal.
Quick facts
Most are 10 to 15 inches long.
Larger fish live on deeper reefs.
Bright yellow fins and faint bars.
They gather in groups.
Reefs, rocks and mangroves.
Where to catch them off Miami
Patch reefs
Shallow reefs in Biscayne Bay and off Key Biscayne.
Mangroves
Mangrove roots hold smaller fish.
Rocks
Rock piles and jetties.
Season in Miami
How to read this meter
- PPeak best time to catch
- FFair can catch
- OOff rarely caught
- CClosed season, no harvest
Schoolmasters are caught all year.
Best time and conditions
Moving tide
Current gets them feeding.
Morning
Early trips are often best.
Techniques and baits
Light tackle
Spinning tackle with light leader.
Chumming
Brings them out of the reef.
Bottom fishing
Small baits near the reef.
Small hooks
They have small mouths.
Top baits and lures
- Live shrimp
- Squid
- Cut bait
Florida regulations
Biscayne National Park requires 12 inches. On a Salty Fresh charter, your fishing license is included.
FWC: Snapper rules · Last checked October 27, 2026
On the table
Good. Mild white meat.
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, Cubera Snapper, Grouper, Hogfish, Grunt, Amberjack and Almaco Jack
Schoolmaster Snapper FAQ
When is schoolmaster season in Miami?
All year.
How many can I keep?
They count toward the 10-snapper aggregate and must be at least 10 inches.
Where do you catch schoolmasters?
Patch reefs, mangroves and rocks.
Are schoolmasters good to eat?
Yes.
Which charter is best for schoolmaster?
The Inshore trip.
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.