Your Captain
Chad Duncan
Identity Verified
If you're looking to experience some of the best inshore fishing charters in Jacksonville, Catching Fire Fishing Charters is the place to start. Led by Captain Chad Duncan, a seasoned local angler with more than 30 years of experience, these trips are designed for those who want a hands-on, competitive-style adventure on the water. Captain Chad has spent decades fishing the local waterways, and his passion shows in every trip he runs.
Hop aboard his sleek 18’ flats boat, built for comfort, speed, and precision in shallow waters. It’s the ideal vessel for targeting inshore species, powered by a 250 HP Mercury engine and equipped with a wireless trolling motor. This setup allows for quiet maneuvering through prime fishing areas. The boat seats two anglers comfortably, with room for a third for an added fee.
Captain Chad focuses his inshore fishing Jacksonville trips around the St. Johns River and Intracoastal Waterway. Depending on the season, you might reel in Redfish, Flounder, Sheepshead, Speckled Trout, or even Tarpon. He comes prepared with live bait and offers the option to catch bait together, making the experience even more interactive—especially for families with kids.
Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned pro, these Jacksonville fishing charters cater to all skill levels. Captain Chad is known for being patient and encouraging, especially with beginners. He takes the time to teach technique, explain local patterns, and ensure everyone on board gets a shot at landing fish.
From the moment you step on board, you'll feel part of the action. With expert guidance and some of the best inshore fishing charters in Jacksonville, you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories—and maybe even dinner. Book a trip today and discover why locals and visitors alike choose Catching Fire Fishing Charters.
What's Included
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
What's Included
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
Tour
Starting At $300
Description:
Fishing
Starting At $450
Description:
Fishing
Starting At $550
Description:
Fishing
Starting At $700
Description:
Catching Fire
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
2
Boat Length:
18 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Back Country
Model Year:
2003
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Mercury
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
250
Maximum Cruising Speed:
10
Features: Bait Tank Trolling Motor Fish Finder GPS
Captain Chad invites you to fish aboard his 18’ flats boat, ideal for navigating shallow waters. It seats 2 anglers comfortably, with the option to add a third for $50 (limit 3 total). Powered by a 250 HP Mercury & a silent trolling motor, it’s perfect for getting close to fish without spooking them
Catching Fire
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
2
Boat Length:
18 ft
Vehicle Details
Offshore fishing out of Jacksonville is in full swing this June, with a wide range of species keeping anglers busy. The bite has been steady from the nearshore reefs all the way out past the ledge, with calm seas on most mornings and solid action throughout the water column. Kingfish are running strong right now, especially around the 9- and 12-mile reefs. Slow-trolling live baits like pogies or blue runners has been the go-to method. Expect a mix of school-sized kings with the occasional smoker in the mix. Cobia are also showing up near structure and floating debris, often mixed in with bait schools or cruising just beneath the surface. Bottom fishing has been productive for snapper and grouper. Anglers dropping live pinfish or cut bait on ledges and reef systems are finding solid numbers of vermilion snapper, triggerfish, and the occasional red snapper (check regulations before keeping). Gag grouper are biting well in deeper water, especially when the current slows. Off the edge, mahi-mahi and blackfin tuna are starting to move in with the warmer water. Trolling rigged ballyhoo or chuggers around weed lines and temperature breaks is your best bet. Some sailfish sightings have also been reported, so keep a pitch rod ready. All in all, offshore fishing out of Jacksonville is offering plenty of opportunity right now—from high-speed trolling to deep dropping. It’s a great time to get offshore and put fish in the cooler.
Jacksonville’s inshore bite has been consistent this May, with water temperatures warming and fish becoming more active across the flats and creeks. Redfish are cruising the shallows and responding well to live shrimp, cut bait, and soft plastics near oyster beds and grass lines. The outgoing tide has been especially productive in the early morning hours. Spotted Seatrout are showing up in good numbers along deeper drop-offs and around docks, with topwater lures producing solid action just after sunrise. Flounder have started to move in, especially around sandy points and inlet edges—live finger mullet has been the go-to bait. Sheepshead are still holding near structure like bridges and pilings, hitting fiddler crabs and shrimp. Meanwhile, Tarpon are starting to make early appearances near the river mouths and deeper channels, so it's a great time to gear up if you’re targeting bigger fish. Overall, now’s a great time to book with one of the best inshore fishing charters in Jacksonville. The fish are biting, the weather is cooperating, and Captains like Chad are ready to guide you to your next catch.
Ratings & Reviews Summary
July 5, 2025
Had an unforgettable time fishing with Captain Chad and his crew! From the moment we stepped aboard, they made us feel right at home—super friendly, well-prepared, and clearly passionate about what they do. The captain brought us to some great fishing spots, and we landed a solid mix of fish, including a few real standouts. The boat was spotless and fully equipped with quality gear, which made everything even more enjoyable. It was a smooth, fun day on the water, and I’ll absolutely be booking another trip. For anyone looking to enjoy a great day of fishing, Captain Chad is a solid choice!
July 5, 2025
We hit a bunch of spots throughout the day, and even with the midsummer heat making things a bit challenging, Captain Chad kept us on the fish. He’s a great guy—easy to talk to and full of local knowledge, having grown up in the area. Big thanks to you, Captain Chad! —Jim Flowers & Dave Dawson, retired from WPBFD
July 5, 2025
My wife and I had an incredible day on the water and are already looking forward to our next trip. The captain was not only welcoming and easy to talk to, but also incredibly knowledgeable. He went out of his way to make sure every detail was taken care of so we could truly enjoy the experience from start to finish.
July 5, 2025
Bomb diggity good time!!!!!
July 5, 2025
Just outstanding customer service , safety and incredible knowledge in the charter business. Chad thank you again !!