In late October and early November, the waters in the Gulf of Mexico clear up with visibility in some areas up to 80 feet. That makes for great scuba diving and spearfishing. 

Most folks know about the stellar conditions in the Florida Keys and on the state's Atlantic Coast, but the Gulf of Mexico has its share of wrecks, artificial reefs and natural limestone outcroppings, often referred to as "hard bottom," that are well worth a visit.

St. Petersburg's Bill Hardman recently hit the water about 60 miles due west of Boca Grande and bagged himself a 82-pound black grouper. Hardman, a scuba instructor and dive shop owner, is an experienced veteran comfortable in deep water.

But you don't have to be a divemaster to take advantage of the great Gulf diving this time of year. There are hundreds of good dive spots stretching from Pensacola to Key West, the vast majority of which are well within the reach of recreational divers. Find a list of charters here or just pick a city, Google scuba diving and you will find a boat that runs regular charters.