Diving atEgmont Key Reef (Bay), #5 (United States)
Egmont Key Reef (Bay) provides a distinct shallow water experience, found about 1 nautical mile (1.85 km) from Egmont Key's southern tip. Within Tampa Bay, it offers divers a valuable alternative for calmer conditions when Gulf waters prove too challenging. Its sheltered nature often contrasts with more exposed open-water sites, appealing to those seeking a less strenuous dive.
Tonight's objective overview for Egmont Key Reef (Bay), #5 shows an air temperature of 22.7°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.22m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
27.5838, -82.7437
Dive Site Overview
Diving Egmont Key Reef (Bay) presents an exploration of an artificial reef structure within the sheltered confines of Tampa Bay. While primarily known to local anglers, this site holds interest for divers curious about its underwater composition and the marine life it attracts.
Depths typically do not exceed 7.6 m (25 ft), making it an accessible dive for a wide range of certification levels. The reef's expansive structure, often detectable on sonar, serves as a habitat for various species, including snapper, and has reports of larger pelagics like tarpon and sharks in the vicinity.
Visibility at the site can fluctuate considerably, often improving significantly during an incoming tide. Divers approaching this reef should plan their visit around optimal tidal conditions to maximize visibility and minimize current, allowing for a more thorough exploration of the established growth and resident fish populations.
An underwater video, available via the Hillsborough County EPC website, provides a glimpse into the artificial reef's visual character and potential inhabitants, confirming its value as a local dive site.
Best Time to Dive
Optimizing a dive at Egmont Key Reef (Bay) largely depends on prevailing conditions, but certain months generally present a more favorable environment. May and July stand out with 'Excellent' dive scores, benefiting from air temperatures averaging 25.6°C (78°F) and 28.6°C (83°F) respectively, coupled with moderate rain. 'Good' conditions extend across many months, including June, August, and September, where air temperatures remain warm, typically ranging from 27.2°C to 28.7°C (81°F to 84°F). These summer months, however, can see increased rainfall, with August recording the highest average at 9.1 mm. For divers prioritizing drier conditions, November (0.73 mm), April (1.43 mm), January (1.89 mm), and March (1.80 mm) offer significantly less precipitation while maintaining comfortable air temperatures between 15°C and 22.7°C (59°F and 73°F). Ultimately, assessing current visibility and tidal charts immediately before diving is crucial for the best experience.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Consistently shallow, Egmont Key Reef (Bay) typically maxes out at 7.6 m (25 ft). These depths are perfect for extended bottom times and appeal to divers who prefer less extreme conditions. Found within Tampa Bay, east of Egmont Key, the site enjoys shelter from rougher Gulf waters, often resulting in calmer surface conditions. Visibility inside the bay, however, hinges on tidal movement. Incoming tides generally introduce clearer water, improving sightlines; outgoing tides can reduce clarity. Divers will encounter currents varying with the tide, demanding situational awareness and potentially more effort during strong flows. Surface wave heights remain low, typically 0.3m to 0.7m (1-2.3 ft) throughout the year, usually ensuring a smooth boat ride and entry.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
When planning a dive at Egmont Key Reef (Bay), it's advisable to factor in the local tidal patterns, as currents and visibility are strongly influenced by incoming and outgoing tides. Diving during an incoming tide typically offers better visibility, making navigation easier and enhancing the overall experience. Given reports of both tarpon and sharks in the vicinity, divers should maintain situational awareness throughout their dive. While this reef can be a good option on days when the open Gulf is rough, don't underestimate the bay's dynamic conditions. Always ensure your dive plan accounts for potential variations in current and underwater visibility. A dive flag is mandatory, and boat traffic awareness is crucial, especially on weekends.
Recommended Equipment
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Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
For relaxed exploration dives, 3mm wetsuit generally provides adequate warmth. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Surface intervals may feel cooler. Those diving at Egmont Key Reef (Bay), #5 today will likely encounter water temperatures in the region of 24°C (75°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 23°C (73°F).
Conditions in the coming days are expected to stay within a similar temperature range.
A diver's personal tolerance to cold water can play a large role in suit selection.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Marine Life at Egmont Key Reef (Bay), #5
Expect to encounter snapper at Egmont Key Reef (Bay), commonly reported by those who fish the area. An artificial reef structure provides ample habitat for smaller fish and invertebrates, fostering a diverse ecosystem. Less frequent, yet notable, are anecdotal reports of larger species like tarpon and sharks, especially during certain seasons. Established growth on the reef creates a vibrant living environment, drawing in a variety of marine organisms and presenting a dynamic underwater landscape to observe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth at Egmont Key Reef (Bay)?
Egmont Key Reef (Bay) consistently reports a maximum depth of approximately 7.6 m (25 ft). This makes it suitable for divers across all certification levels, including newer divers.
Where is Egmont Key Reef (Bay) located?
Egmont Key Reef (Bay) is approximately 1 nautical mile (1.85 km) from Egmont Key's southern tip, within Tampa Bay. This placement, east of Egmont Key, helps shield it from open Gulf conditions.
How does visibility vary at the reef?
Visibility at Egmont Key Reef (Bay) is highly tide-dependent. It typically improves significantly during an incoming tide, as clearer Gulf waters flow into the bay. Outgoing tides can often lead to reduced clarity.
Are there strong currents at the dive site?
Currents at the reef can vary, primarily influenced by tidal movements. Divers should anticipate potential currents and plan their dives to coincide with slack tide or an incoming tide for better conditions.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
The artificial reef attracts various species, including snapper and other resident reef fish. Occasional reports mention larger pelagics such as tarpon and sharks in the area, particularly when baitfish are abundant.
Is this a good site for beginner divers?
Yes, its shallow depth of 7.6 m (25 ft) makes Egmont Key Reef (Bay) generally suitable for beginner divers. However, awareness of potential currents and fluctuating visibility is important for all experience levels.
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