Ryan Morie and Tyler Wald launched the Ranger 2600 off Florida’s east coast with a narrow two-day red snapper season and one goal: test the reality behind the South Atlantic red snapper debate. Fishing 80 to 100 feet of water, the team loaded the livewell with croakers and spent long hours fishing bottom structure. The bite was anything but easy, with missed opportunities, heavy break-offs, red grouper, and an unexpected giant kingfish highlighting just how unforgiving the snapper fishery can be, especially with weather pressure and a limited window.
On day two, persistence paid off. After hours of working live baits over marked fish, Ryan landed a 31-inch keeper red snapper, the only snapper to make the box and a well-earned reward for the grind. While limits never materialized, the trip reinforced the value of timing, preparation, and patience during the South Atlantic red snapper season.
Ryan Morie (@ryanmorie)
Ryan Morie is a full-time content creator based out of southeast Florida. After graduating from the University of Florida, Ryan served as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. During his time on active duty he was able to document some outstanding fisheries near the bases on which he served. He now creates a wide variety of fishing content that documents both local and international adventures.
Tyler Wald (Suns Out Fishing)
Tyler Wald is a full-time content creator born and raised in Miami, Florida. Tyler has known from the age of 5 that fishing is his undeniable passion. After spending his 20s working sales jobs he decided to take a leap of faith and pursue that passion in hopes of creating a fulfilling career. He now creates a diverse array of fishing content showcasing his adventures on the water both local and abroad!
We’re planning more of these! If you’re a creator looking to join our team, or a brand/company interested in integrating your products/services into these shoots, please contact Firecrown fish group editorial director Shawn Bean at shawn.bean@firecrown.com.