5.0(2 Reviews)Snapper Private 8-Hour Fishing Trip
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Eighthour offshore snapper fishing adventure with expert guideFully equipped boat with latest fishfinding technology includedAccommodates up to four guests for private charter experience
Picture this: you're 20+ miles offshore, the Gulf waters are deep blue beneath you, and your rod suddenly bends double as a hefty snapper takes your bait. That's exactly what you'll get on this private 8-hour charter with Captain James and Aquiline Custom Charters. We're talking about a serious fishing trip here – not some tourist boat shuffle where you're elbow-to-elbow with strangers. Just you and up to three buddies on a boat that's built for business, targeting some of the Gulf's most prized eating fish.
When I say action-packed, I mean it. We launch early to beat the crowds and head straight to the productive structure where snapper love to hang out. You'll spend your day working bottom rigs over reefs, artificial structures, and natural ledges where these fish stack up thick. The boat comes loaded with all the tackle you need – heavy conventional reels spooled with 50-80 pound test, circle hooks to keep fish mortality low, and enough lead to get your baits down in current. Captain James knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's not shy about moving spots if the bite slows down. This isn't a sit-and-wait game – we're constantly adjusting depth, bait, and location to put you on fish. The 8-hour window gives us plenty of time to work multiple spots and really dial in what the snapper want on any given day.
Snapper fishing is all about precision and patience. We'll be dropping Carolina rigs and knocker rigs loaded with cut bait, squid, and live pinfish when we can get them. The key is getting your bait right to the bottom where these fish feed, then lifting it just enough to stay off the structure. Captain James runs top-shelf electronics – GPS, fishfinder, and side-scan sonar – to locate both structure and baitfish. When we mark fish, we'll anchor up or use the trolling motor to stay positioned perfectly over the sweet spots. You'll learn to feel the difference between a fish pickup and bottom contact, how to set the hook properly with circle hooks, and the right amount of drag to put on these bulldogs without breaking them off. The boat's rigged with plenty of rod holders, a large cooler system to keep your catch fresh, and all the gaff and net tools needed to boat fish safely.
"The trip was a great hit! The boat was comfortable, the first mate was attentive to all of our needs and the Captain did not stop short of making the day a successful experience for everyone.I have been on many, many charter fishing trips over the years and Captain James is absolutely the best." - Shane
"James McCanless is the best guide that I have used in the Mississippi Gulf coast area. His boat is very capable and comfortable to fish from. Captain James did everything he could to not only put us on fish, but put us on keeper size quality fish in multiple species. I will be using Captain James again when I fish the area." - Bradd
Red Snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf fishing, and for good reason. These crimson-colored fighters average 5-15 pounds in our waters, with trophy fish pushing 20+ pounds not uncommon. Reds are ambush predators that hold tight to structure during the day, making them perfect targets for our bottom fishing approach. They're incredibly line-shy and structure-oriented, so presentation matters. When you hook into one, expect a powerful initial run followed by a bulldogging fight as they try to wrap your line around whatever reef or wreck they call home. The meat is phenomenal – firm, white fillets that taste amazing grilled, blackened, or fried. Red snapper season typically runs from June through July in federal waters, making timing crucial for targeting these fish legally.
Grey Snapper, also called mangrove snapper, are year-round residents that provide consistent action when reds aren't in season. Don't let their smaller average size fool you – these fish are scrappy fighters that punch well above their weight class. Greys are incredibly smart and cautious, often requiring lighter leaders and smaller hooks to get bites. They average 2-8 pounds but can reach double digits around the right structure. What makes grey snapper special is their willingness to bite in tough conditions when other species shut down. They're also excellent table fare with sweet, flaky meat that's perfect for fish tacos or ceviche. You'll find them mixed in with other bottom species throughout the year, and they're often the fish that save the day when conditions get challenging.
This isn't your average half-day trip where you're rushing to get lines wet. Eight hours gives us the flexibility to chase the bite, work different depths, and really put you on quality fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add to your personal best list or someone new to offshore fishing wanting to experience what the Gulf has to offer, this charter delivers. Captain James has built his reputation on putting clients on fish consistently, and the boat's equipped with everything needed for a successful day. The 4-person capacity keeps it intimate and ensures everyone gets plenty of rod time. Don't wait – prime dates fill up fast, especially during peak snapper season. Book your spot today and get ready to experience some of the best bottom fishing the Gulf Coast has to offer.
This fully-equipped motorboat is built for serious snapper fishing adventures on the open water. With space for up to 4 anglers, she's loaded with everything you need for a productive day targeting these hard-fighting fish. The GPS and fish finder will help locate the best snapper grounds, while the radar keeps you safe in changing conditions. VHF radio ensures reliable communication with other vessels and marina. When you need a break from the action, cool off in the onboard shower or grab cold drinks from the icebox. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over structure without spooking fish below. After hours of battling snapper, relax with the multimedia system while heading back to port. The onboard toilet means no cutting trips short, so you can make the most of every fishing hour on the water.
Lutjanus GriseusGrey snapper, also called mangrove snapper, are crafty fish that keep you on your toes. Most run 1-3 pounds inshore, but offshore specimens can hit 15-20 pounds. They love structure - docks, mangroves, reefs, and wrecks where they hide and ambush prey. Being nocturnal, they're most active at dawn, dusk, and night. What guests love is their finicky nature makes them a real challenge, plus they're fantastic eating with sweet, white meat. My go-to trick: use live shrimp hooked through the tail, let it sink to the bottom, then barely lift it off. No jerky movements - these opportunistic feeders want easy prey, so patience pays off big time.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the prize catch of deep water fishing, averaging 1-2 feet and 5-10 pounds, though giants over 30 pounds lurk in the depths. These brilliant red fighters live around structure in 50-200 feet - reefs, wrecks, and ledges where they ambush prey. They're most active during warmer months when baitfish are plentiful. What makes them special? That powerful run when hooked will test your drag, and the white, flaky meat is restaurant-quality delicious. Here's the trick: when you feel that first tap, don't set the hook immediately. Let them take it and run a bit - red snapper are notorious for stealing bait, but once they commit, hold on tight.
5.0 out of 5.0The trip was a great hit! The boat was comfortable, the first mate was attentive to all of our needs and the Captain did not sto...
Shane Miller, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
James McCanless is the best guide that I have used in the Mississippi Gulf coast area. His boat is very capable and comfortable to...
Brad Steffens, Thank you! You folks were awesome to roll with the weather changes. Looking forward t...
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