Diving atMontgomery Reef (United States)
Montgomery Reef functions as a foundational artificial reef in the United States, positioned approximately 8.5 miles (13.7 km) from the St. Johns River jetties in Jacksonville, Florida. Its approximate coordinates are 30.44650, -81.22000. Originally a natural depression, this site evolved into one of the earliest purpose-built artificial reef projects in the area, offering a complex underwater structure for marine life.
As evening covers Montgomery Reef, the local air temperature is measured at 26°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.6 m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Exploring Montgomery Reef reveals a fascinating blend of human ingenuity and natural marine processes, standing as the Jacksonville Offshore Sport Fishing Club's initial artificial reef endeavor. Descending into this unique site, divers will discover remnants of its unconventional beginnings, with scattered appliances and miscellaneous junk now forming integral parts of the habitat.
A significant addition includes a barge laden with concrete culverts, enhancing the reef's structural complexity. At the northern end of the area, a distinct ledge, approximately 0.9 to 1.2 meters (3 to 4 feet) in height, presents an additional feature to navigate.
The natural depression here reaches depths of 23 to 24 meters (76 to 78 feet), making it the deepest point within a nine-mile radius from the St. Johns River. These varied structures provide critical shelter and foraging grounds, supporting diverse marine ecosystems.
Montgomery Reef
Conditions are Good
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Montgomery Reef show 26° air, 28° sea temperature, 0.5 m waves, and 23 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Optimal diving conditions at Montgomery Reef often present themselves across several months, notably during January, February, April, May, June, July, August, and November, which consistently report a 'Good' dive score. Air temperatures during these periods generally range from 12.5°C (54°F) in January to highs of 27.5°C (82°F) in August, influencing surface comfort before and after dives. While specific water temperature data for Montgomery Reef isn't consistently reported, prevailing air temperatures can indicate a need for appropriate thermal protection, especially outside of peak summer. During these favorable months, wave heights typically average below 1 meter (3.3 feet), and wind speeds tend to be more moderate, around 26-30 km/h (16-19 mph), contributing to calmer surface conditions. Rainfall is also generally lower, ranging from 1.32 mm (0.05 inches) in November to 5.75 mm (0.23 inches) in August, minimizing runoff and potential visibility impacts.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
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
Diving at Montgomery Reef primarily involves exploring a depth profile that varies from shallower sections of the reef structures to a maximum depth within the natural depression of 23-24 meters (76-78 feet). Divers will navigate through an artificial landscape comprised of concrete culverts, the mentioned natural ledge, and various other materials that have contributed to its growth over time. The site's character as an artificial reef means encountering an array of submerged objects, which now serve as habitat. Water temperatures for this specific site are not consistently reported, however, based on regional climate, surface water temperatures generally align with seasonal air temperature patterns, which can vary from cooler in winter to warmer in summer months. Visibility fluctuates depending on recent weather and currents, but often allows for clear views of the reef's varied architecture.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching Montgomery Reef requires divers to maintain heightened situational awareness due to its composition as an artificial reef. Given the presence of miscellaneous junk and older materials, there's a potential for sharp edges or entanglement hazards, necessitating excellent buoyancy control and careful finning techniques. Always dive with a reliable buddy and carry cutting tools as a precaution. As a popular fishing location, boat traffic in the vicinity can occur, so deploying a surface marker buoy (SMB) upon ascent is a wise safety practice. Prior to your dive, consult local dive operators for the most current conditions and any temporary advisories affecting the site. Adhering to responsible diving practices, such as avoiding contact with the reef structures, helps preserve this unique underwater environment.
Recommended Equipment
- Dive Computer
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Montgomery Reef, United States. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Current diving conditions indicate water temperatures around 28°C (82°F) at Montgomery Reef. Surface air temperatures are resting at 26°C (79°F).
The upcoming forecast points to generally steady conditions in the area.
Divers who prefer moderate insulation typically choose 2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit in similar environments. Many experienced divers adjust their exposure protection depending on the type of dive planned.
Due to technical issues with our weather providers, data hasn't been fetched for over 48 hours. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Montgomery Reef.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN World.
+1-919-684-9111- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Marine Life at Montgomery Reef
Montgomery Reef's diverse structural composition, incorporating accumulated culverts and other materials, establishes a complex underwater landscape conducive to marine life. This artificial environment successfully attracts a variety of fish species, thriving within protective nooks and crannies formed by submerged structures. Extensive surface area provided by these artificial elements allows sessile invertebrates to colonize, creating microhabitats that support a broader ecosystem. While specific species reports vary, the site generally functions as a productive feeding and shelter ground, contributing to localized biodiversity and supporting the 'good fishing' reported throughout the year.
Dive Centers Near Montgomery Reef
Working Hours
Today: 12:00 - 17:00
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Search Flights
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What is Montgomery Reef?
Montgomery Reef is an artificial reef located off the coast of Jacksonville, Florida, United States. It began as a natural ocean floor depression and was significantly augmented with various materials, including concrete culverts and recycled items, to create marine habitats.
What is the typical depth at Montgomery Reef?
The dive site features a natural depression that reaches depths of 23-24 meters (76-78 feet). Divers can expect to explore areas ranging from shallower reef sections down to this maximum depth.
What kind of structures can divers expect to see?
Divers will encounter a range of artificial structures, including concrete culverts and various older materials that have been repurposed to form the reef. There is also a natural ledge, 0.9 to 1.2 meters (3 to 4 feet) high, in the northern part of the site.
Is Montgomery Reef suitable for beginner divers?
While parts of the reef are within recreational depth limits, the presence of varied structures and potential entanglement hazards suggests that confident buoyancy control is beneficial. Consulting with local dive operators is recommended to assess current conditions and suitability for your experience level.
What are the water conditions like at Montgomery Reef?
Specific water temperature data is not consistently reported for this site. However, air temperatures range from cooler in winter to warmer in summer, indicating seasonal variations in water temperature. Visibility varies based on weather and current conditions, but is often good.
What marine life might I encounter at Montgomery Reef?
The diverse structures of the artificial reef create a rich habitat, attracting a variety of fish species seeking shelter and food. While specific species reports vary, the site is known to support local marine biodiversity and is considered a good location for fishing.
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Montgomery Reef
Conditions are Good
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Montgomery Reef show 26° air, 28° sea temperature, 0.5 m waves, and 23 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.