I am going to Venice, FL in December and am planning on heading out of Venice Inlet one day. I have done some fishing in the bays of SW Florida before, but I would like to do some bottom fishing in the Gulf. After looking online, I have found a few artificial reefs about 10-15 miles offshore in about 60 ft. of water. Is this where I would want to target bottom fish? Which fish usually inhabit the artificial reefs at this distance offshore in December? Grouper? Snapper? Sheepshead? Are there any well known bottom fishing areas that are not too far offshore? I am not looking for secret hotspots, just some general areas where I could catch fish.

I am planning bringing a few conventional setups. Would it be worthwhile to bring some spinning setups as well. In Massachusetts, there are often stripers or bluefish that are breaking on the surface; is there any surface action in the Gulf?

Lastly, are there any well-known bottom fishing guides in the area that could come on my boat for the day?

Any info would be appreciated. Thank you.