Half Day Afternoon Fishing in Jacksonville Beach
Jacksonville's backwaters hold some of the most productive shallow water fishing on Florida's east coast, and this half-day afternoon trip puts you right in the thick of it. Captain Dave knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to share his local knowledge with up to three adults and one child per trip. You'll spend your afternoon targeting four of the area's most sought-after species using techniques that really work in these unique coastal environments. The timing is perfect too – afternoon bites can be absolutely electric when conditions line up right.
What to Expect on the Water
This isn't your typical deep-sea charter – we're talking about getting into the skinny water where the big fish come to feed. Captain Dave will have you working the grass flats, oyster bars, and creek mouths that make Jacksonville's inshore fishing so special. The boat stays in protected waters, so even if it's a bit choppy outside, you'll be comfortable and focused on fishing. Families love this setup because kids can actually see what's happening below the surface in these clear, shallow areas. You'll learn to read the water, spot fish movement, and understand why certain spots hold fish day after day. The trip moves at a good pace – when one spot slows down, we're already heading to the next honey hole.
Techniques and Tackle
Captain Dave keeps it simple but effective with the gear and methods. You'll be using light to medium tackle that's perfect for these inshore species – think spinning reels with 15-20 pound test that can handle the fight without overpowering smaller fish. Live bait is king out here, and you'll work with shrimp, finger mullet, and mud minnows depending on what the fish are wanting that day. Artificial lures play a big role too, especially soft plastics rigged on jig heads that you can work through the grass without getting hung up constantly. The captain will show you how to work different bottom types – from sandy potholes to oyster-crusted structure – and explain why each spot requires a slightly different approach. Don't worry if you're new to inshore fishing; these techniques are easy to pick up, and the fish will let you know when you're doing it right.
Customer Stories
"Great captain , would go with Capt Dave again without hesitation A++" - LEO
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish are the crown jewel of Jacksonville's inshore scene, and for good reason. These copper-colored fighters typically run 18 to 30 inches in these waters, with the occasional bull red pushing the limits. They're most active during moving tides when they cruise the flats looking for crabs and baitfish. What makes redfish so special is their attitude – they fight hard from the hookset to the net, often making multiple runs and using their broad sides to stay deep. Fall and spring offer the most consistent action, but Jacksonville's year-round fishery means you've got a solid shot any time you're out there.
Sea Trout might not have the glamour of redfish, but they're pure fun on light tackle. These spotted beauties love grass flats and typically run 14 to 20 inches, though keeper-sized fish over 15 inches are what you're really after. They're aggressive feeders that will absolutely crush a well-presented shrimp or soft plastic. Trout fishing teaches you finesse – they can be picky about retrieve speed and bait presentation. The best part is their numbers; when you find a school of feeding trout, you can often catch several before they move on. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall when water temperatures are optimal.
Southern Flounder are the masters of disguise in these waters, and catching one always feels like solving a puzzle. These flatfish typically measure 14 to 18 inches and are absolute table fare champions. They ambush prey from sandy bottoms and channel edges, which means you need to get your bait down to their level and keep it moving naturally. The trick with flounder is patience – they often follow a bait for a while before committing. When they do hit, it feels like you've snagged bottom until that distinctive head shake gives them away. Summer months are prime time when they move into the shallows to feed heavily.
Black Drum round out the slam with their bulldozer-style fight and impressive size potential. These bottom-dwellers commonly reach 20 to 35 inches around Jacksonville, with some true giants mixed in. They're suckers for fresh shrimp fished near structure, especially around oyster bars and bridge pilings. What's exciting about drum fishing is never knowing if you've got a smaller fish or a real bruiser until it's at the boat. They use their weight and power rather than speed, making for arm-burning battles in shallow water. They're most cooperative during cooler months when they school up in predictable areas.
Time to Book Your Spot
Jacksonville's inshore fishing delivers year-round action with seasonal peaks that keep things interesting. This half-day format gives you a real taste of what makes these waters special without committing to a full day on the water. Captain Dave's local knowledge and proven track record mean you're getting more than just a boat ride – you're getting an education in reading water, understanding fish behavior, and techniques that will make you a better angler long after the trip ends. With space for three adults and one child, it's sized perfectly for families or small groups who want personalized attention. Don't wait around – good captains book up fast, especially during peak seasons when the fishing is hottest.
5.0(1 Reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Jacksonville, FL
Half
