Conditions this week were decent, but Saturday was exceptional ‒ one of those days on the water that you don’t forget. It coincided with opening day for the grouper and hogfish seasons in the Florida Keys, which we now celebrate in honor of our late friend Capt. Jeff Leonia.
For the 2nd annual Jeff Leonia Reel & Steel Classic, we hit the Eagle and Conch wall. While it was a fishing tournament to see who could catch the biggest fish, the real mission of the day was to raise money for the Florida Keys Sea Camp for Kids. This amazing organization will help get the next generation of anglers and divers out on the water early and often ‒ a cause that was dear to Jeff.
The grand champion of the tournament was Brett Roach, with a 46-pound black grouper. We are so proud to uphold Jeff’s legacy and to “Live Like Jeff” every day here in the Florida Keys.
Porcupine fish are shy, adorable fish you sometimes see on your dives in the Florida Keys. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed
Next Week’s Dive Report
Conditions next week look great! Winds should stay down all the way through Saturday to make for some amazing diving. I’d recommend getting out and enjoying the water, however you can.
Conservation Update
Coral plantings with I.CARE will take place on Saturday with Key Dives. As always, they’ll be focused on restoring local Islamorada reefs with the help of local and visiting divers. It’s a community effort to make our home more resilient and beautiful.
Calm waters and clear visibility make for amazing diving. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed
Conservation Tip
Watch your anchorage. Try and drop anchors on sandy bottom only, and use mooring balls when available.
I.CARE Tip
When you teach the next generation about the corals and why they matter, you invest in the long-term survival of the reef.
