Wickstrom Reef Highlights

• Location:

  • Approximately 9 nautical miles offshore from St. Lucie Inlet.
  • Coordinates: 27° 13.492' N, 80° 00.318' W.

• Depth:

  • Maximum: 188 feet.
  • Deck Level: 160 feet.
  • Mast Top: 120 feet.

• Profile:

  • A towering 71-foot relief from the seabed.

• History:

  • Built in 1944 for the U.S. Army as FS 553.
  • Purchased by Florida Sportsman founder Karl Wickstrom and the Martin County Anglers Club in 2002.
  • Scuttled in 2003 to create an artificial reef.

• Marine Life:

  • Species: Grouper, Amberjack, Spadefish, Warsaw Grouper.
  • Unique coral: Oculina varicosa (Ivory Tree Coral).
  • Seasonal visits by Gulf Stream currents bring nutrient-rich waters supporting abundant marine biodiversity.

Dive Type and Requirements

• Skill Level:

  • Advanced/Technical Divers Only – Requires training in deep decompression diving with mixed gas (Helium/Oxygen).
  • Strong currents make this a challenging yet rewarding site.

• Recommended Equipment:

  • Technical diving setup with redundant air systems.
  • DSMB (Delayed Surface Marker Buoy) for safe ascents in strong currents.
  • Underwater camera to capture this magnificent wreck and its inhabitants.

What Makes Wickstrom Reef Unique?

• Artificial Reef Collaboration:

  • A joint effort by Martin County and marine organizations added Reefmaker modules in 2005, enhancing the site’s habitat.
  • Modules connect Wickstrom to nearby wrecks like the Tree Barge and High Queen, forming a dynamic reef corridor.

• Marine Legacy:

  • Honoring Karl Wickstrom, a champion for marine conservation and recreational angler rights.

Plan Your Dive with Stuart Scuba

As South Florida's premier dive shop, Stuart Scuba offers expert guidance for this advanced dive:

• Professional Support: Experienced technical instructors and dive guides.
• Full-Service Boats: Freshwater rinses, snacks, drinks, and gear handling.
• Custom Dive Charters: Explore Wickstrom Reef and neighboring wrecks safely.

Book Your Dive Adventure Today