Offshore Fishing Charters Jacksonville FL
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Offshore fishing adventure targeting king fish with trolling techniquesProfessional crew provides guidance for all experience levels aboardSixperson capacity trips feature modern equipment and bottom fishing
Jacksonville's offshore waters are calling your name, and Big Blue Sportfishing Charters is ready to get you out there where the real action happens. When you're talking serious fishing in Northeast Florida, you're talking about heading past the nearshore structure and into the deep blue where the big boys live. Our offshore trips put you right in the heart of king mackerel territory during peak season, with plenty of opportunities for bottom fishing and trolling action that'll keep your arms burning and your cooler filling up.
You'll be fishing with a crew that knows these waters like the back of their hand, heading out to proven spots where the fish are actively feeding. We're talking about a full day on a boat that's built for offshore work – stable, comfortable, and equipped with everything you need to land whatever decides to take your bait. The trip accommodates up to 6 anglers, so you're not fighting for rail space or dealing with a crowded deck. Whether you've been fishing these waters for years or this is your first time past the 3-mile mark, our captain will put you on fish and make sure you know how to handle whatever comes up from the depths. The ocean out here changes throughout the day, and part of what makes offshore fishing so rewarding is reading those changes and adjusting your approach accordingly.
We run a combination approach that gives you the best shot at multiple species throughout the day. Trolling is where we shine during king mackerel season – we'll have multiple lines out with different lures and baits, covering water at the right speed to trigger strikes from these fast-moving predators. When we find structure or good bottom, we'll anchor up or drift fish with heavy tackle, dropping baits down to where the amberjack, triggerfish, and other bottom dwellers are holding. All the gear is provided, from the heavy trolling rods perfect for kings to the stout bottom rigs that can handle whatever decides to grab your bait 80 feet down. Circle hooks are the standard for most of our bottom fishing – they hook fish better and make releasing anything you don't want much easier on the fish.
King mackerel are the headliners out here, and for good reason. These fish are built for speed and put up a fight that'll test your drag and your arms. Kings typically run anywhere from 15 to 40 pounds in these waters, with the occasional smoker that'll peel line off your reel like it's nothing. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall, and when they're here, they're aggressive. They'll hit live bait, dead bait, and lures with equal enthusiasm, but the key is presenting it at the right depth and speed.
Grey triggerfish might not look like much, but don't let their appearance fool you – these guys are some of the best eating fish in the Gulf Stream. They're structure-oriented fish that hang around wrecks and hard bottom, and they'll test your patience with their habit of stealing bait. But when you hook one, especially a big one, you'll feel that distinctive head-shaking fight that makes them a favorite among bottom fishermen. They're most active during the warmer months and can be finicky about bait presentation.
Yellowtail amberjack are the bullies of the bottom, and when you hook into one, you'll know it immediately. These fish don't give up – they'll run straight for the structure and try to cut you off, making every fight a test of tackle and technique. Amberjack can range from 20-pound schoolies up to 60-pound brutes that'll leave you wondering what just hit your bait. They're year-round residents, but the bigger fish seem to show up more consistently in the cooler months.
Tripletail are one of the more unique catches you might encounter, often found floating near debris or structure in the open water. They're ambush predators with incredible camouflage abilities, and catching one is always a treat because they're not as common as some of the other species. When you do hook one, they're known for their jumping ability and strong runs. They're excellent table fare and always generate excitement when they come over the rail.
Bull sharks represent the apex predator experience you can have on these trips. When a bull shark decides to take your bait, everything changes – the fight is powerful, sustained, and absolutely memorable. These sharks are built like trucks and fight like it, making long runs and testing every component of your tackle. Jacksonville's offshore waters see bulls throughout the year, but they're most common during the warmer months when baitfish are abundant.
Jacksonville's offshore fishing scene doesn't wait around, and the best trips fill up fast during peak season. Big Blue Sportfishing Charters has built a reputation on putting clients on fish and providing the kind of day on the water that has you planning your next trip before this one's over. With space for just 6 anglers, you're getting a personalized experience with room to fish comfortably and learn from a crew that lives and breathes these waters. The fish are out there, the boat's ready, and all that's missing is you with a rod in your hands. Book your offshore adventure today and find out why Jacksonville's deep water fishing keeps anglers coming back season after season.
Meet your fishing machine for Jacksonville's offshore waters – a 39-foot SeaVee center console that's built to chase kings and bottom fish in the deep blue. This 2012 beauty runs on four screaming 300HP Suzuki outboards that'll get you to the fishing grounds at 55 knots, cutting through swells like butter. The spacious center console layout gives all 6 anglers plenty of room to work lines without getting tangled up. She's loaded with everything serious fishermen need – GPS to mark your honey holes, radar for those foggy morning runs, and a fish finder that'll show you exactly what's swimming below. The wireless trolling motor lets you position perfectly over structure without spooking the fish, while the icebox keeps your catch fresh and your drinks cold during those long offshore battles. Whether you're pulling kings on the troll or dropping bottom rigs on the reefs, this SeaVee delivers the speed, space, and technology to make your Jacksonville fishing adventure one for the books.
Carcharhinus LeucasBull sharks are apex predators that bring serious excitement to our charters. These thick-bodied bruisers run 6-10 feet and 200-400 pounds, cruising shallow coastal waters and even moving into brackish areas. Summer months are peak season when they're most active in our waters. What guests love is the pure adrenaline rush - bulls are aggressive fighters with incredible power. We practice catch and release for these amazing animals. The key is using heavy tackle with wire leaders and big baits like whole mullet or cut mackerel. Fresh eel works fantastic due to its oil content. Once hooked, expect long runs and don't try to muscle them - let your drag do the work and enjoy the ride.
Balistes CapriscusGrey triggerfish are scrappy bottom dwellers that'll test your patience and reward your persistence. Most run 12-17 inches and up to 13 pounds, hanging around reefs, ledges, and hard bottom in 50-180 feet of water. They're year-round residents but bite best during warmer months. What guests love about triggers is their stubborn fight - they'll use every rock and crevice to try breaking you off. The meat is fantastic, white and firm like snapper. Here's the trick: use small chunks of squid on a dropper rig with 6-8 oz weight. Drop to bottom, then reel up fast to feel those subtle nibbles. When you get bit, reel hard and don't give them a chance to dive into structure.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing mackerel are one of our most popular targets, averaging 15-30 pounds with some bruisers pushing 50+ pounds. These speed demons cruise offshore waters from 40-150 feet, often around structure and bait schools. Spring through fall offers the best action when water temps hit 68-84°F. What makes kings special is their blistering runs - they'll strip line faster than almost any fish out there. The meat is rich and flaky, perfect for the grill. Pro tip: always use a wire leader and rig with two hooks - one in the bait's nose, another trailing behind. Kings love to hit the tail section of live baits, so that stinger hook will save you plenty of missed fish.
Lobotes SurinamensisTripletail are one of our most unique targets - they look like floating debris until you get close. These olive-colored fish average 2-13 pounds and can hit 40 pounds, floating near the surface around weed lines and structure. Summer through fall is prime time, especially July and August. What makes them special is their acrobatic fight and excellent table fare - tastes like a cross between snapper and grouper. They're becoming popular with fly fishermen too. The secret is sight casting - once you spot one, cast well past it and slowly work your bait back. They spook easily, so stay quiet and keep your distance. Live shrimp or small crabs work best.
Seriola LalandiYellowtail amberjack are powerful offshore fighters that'll give you a workout. These silver bullets typically run 15-25 pounds, though 40-pounders show up regularly. They patrol deeper reefs and structure from 80-200 feet, especially during warmer months when baitfish are thick. What makes yellowtails special is their incredible strength and speed - they'll make long, bulldogging runs that'll test your drag system. The meat is excellent, oily and perfect for sashimi or grilling. Key tip: use live bait when possible and heavy tackle - 50-80 pound class gear. Once hooked, keep steady pressure but don't horse them. Let them run, but don't let them get back into the reef where they'll cut you off on the rocks.
Jacksonville, FL