Mutton Snapper season in the Florida Keys is here—and it's got everyone fired up! These prized fish are one of the most sought-after catches in our waters, known for their fight, flavor, and the challenge they bring to the table.
Catching them isn’t easy. You either have to be really dialed in, or know a good local captain who can put you right on the spot. They love to lurk near reefs and wrecks in deeper water, and when they hit, they hit hard. Mutton Snapper are known for their strong runs, making them one of the best pound-for-pound fighters offshore.
Most Mutton Snapper caught around the Keys range from 6 to 12 pounds, but even at that size they will test your strength, endurance and your back. Don’t be surprised if you hook into a monster, and if it’s over 15 pounds, you may want to give up, but hang on tight and you won’t regret it. The Florida state and all-tackle world record is an absolute beast at over 30 pounds.
So whether you're out there dropping baits in 100+ feet or drifting along the reef edge, be ready for a battle—and maybe a personal best.
Fresh Catch, Fresh Flavors: Simple Mutton Snapper Recipes
When you land a Mutton Snapper, the reward isn’t just the fight—it’s what’s for dinner. These fish have a clean, sweet flavor that works beautifully with simple prep. Here are two easy ways to enjoy your catch:
1. Grilled Mutton Snapper with Citrus Butter
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Ingredients:
– 2 Mutton Snapper fillets
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt, pepper, and paprika
– Fresh parsley (optional) - Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-high.
- Season fillets with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of paprika.
- Mix melted butter with lime juice and brush over fillets.
- Grill skin-side down for about 4–5 minutes, flip, and grill another 3–4 minutes until cooked through.
- Drizzle remaining citrus butter and top with parsley before serving.
2. Mutton Snapper Ceviche
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Ingredients:
– 1/2 lb fresh Mutton Snapper, diced
– Juice of 4 limes
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 jalapeño, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste - Instructions:
- Place diced fish in a bowl with lime juice and let it “cook” in the fridge for 30–45 minutes.
- Add onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt. Mix well.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips or over avocado slices.
Hook it. Fight it. Eat it.
That’s the Mutton Snapper experience in the Florida Keys. Whether you're chasing the thrill offshore or enjoying the flavors back at the dock, this season brings it all. Want to taste it for yourself? If you in the Florida Keys, Head to The Deck at Key Largo Fisheries and order a fresh meal off their menu….or you can always order online and have it sent overnight fresh to your door.