On one of those perfect Florida December mornings, the lure of the Gulf is too much to resist.  Flat seas and a promise of 80 degree temperatures are all the persuasion needed to get up early and set out in search of a small shrimp boat located in about 80' feet of water.  The Stacey Ann is not really recognizable as a boat with debris scattered over a fairly large area but many of our finned friends happily call it home.  

Covered with layers of heavy nets and thick braids of coiled rope, the wreck presents an eerie picture through the hazy water.  December Gulf water temperatures of 65 degrees and dry fall weather frequently combine to give the divers the best visibility of the year.  More often a respectable 15-20' of visibility is enough to see the big variety of sea life that frequents this little spot in the Gulf.  Hundreds of snapper and grouper swarm in and out of the wreckage and several other types of fish are present -- underwater photographers can just sit and wait for the perfect picture.   

The real fun begins when the dark hump hovering just past the haze decides to check out the action over the wreck.  A small Jewfish cruises by curiously investigating the new rubber suited intruders and right behind appears a protective and decidedly larger "Mom" or "Pop" Jewfish with a look that says "Stand Back"!   Staring out into the green depths sometimes reveals bigger family members who thankfully keep their distance.  A large gray nurse shark dozes in what may have been a small cargo hold seemingly undisturbed by the activity taking place until an unsuspecting diver almost lands on its back.  Small nudibranchs hang on the coral whips and large horse conchs leave long trails through the sand on the bottom.  

A spectacular sunset  and a smooth ride back in completes the perfect day.  Florida Gulf diving at it's finest!