Georgia Offshore Fishing Charters
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Offshore charter targets kingfish, snapper, grouper, and triggerfish yearroundBottom fishing techniques accommodate all skill levels with experienced guidesWeatherdependent trips ensure safe conditions for small groups of four
Picture this: you're 20+ miles offshore in Georgia's prime fishing grounds, surrounded by nothing but blue water and endless possibilities. Cumberland Fishing Charters offers the real deal – authentic offshore fishing adventures that put you face-to-face with some of the Southeast's most sought-after game fish. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned angler, our 6 and 8-hour charters deliver the kind of action that keeps folks talking long after they've hung up their rods. With a maximum of 4 anglers per trip, you'll get the personalized attention and prime fishing spots that bigger boats just can't offer.
Georgia's offshore waters are alive year-round, which means there's never a bad time to wet a line out here. We're talking about productive fishing grounds where the continental shelf drops off and creates the perfect habitat for everything from hard-fighting King Mackerel to table-fare favorites like Red Snapper and Vermilion Snapper. Your captain knows these waters like the back of his hand – the ledges, the structure, the current breaks where fish stack up waiting for an easy meal. Bottom fishing is our bread and butter, but don't be surprised if we switch things up based on what's biting. The fish don't read the rulebook, so neither do we. Just remember, Mother Nature calls the shots out here, so we'll always prioritize safety over fishing when the weather turns nasty.
Bottom fishing might sound simple, but there's definitely an art to it when you're working 60-100 foot depths over structure. We're talking about precision drops to rocky ledges, artificial reefs, and natural bottom contours where the fish congregate. Your tackle setup will vary depending on current and depth – sometimes we're using 8-ounce sinkers to punch through the current, other times we can get away with lighter weights when conditions cooperate. Circle hooks are the name of the game here, especially when targeting snapper and grouper. They hook fish in the corner of the mouth, making for easier releases and better survival rates. We'll have you rigged with quality rods and reels that can handle the fight, plus all the terminal tackle you'll need. Bring your own gear if you've got favorites, but our equipment gets the job done day in and day out.
Red Snapper are the crown jewel of Georgia offshore fishing, though they're only available during specific seasons when federal regulations allow. These ruby-red beauties average 3-8 pounds, with the occasional teenager that'll test your drag system. They're structure-oriented fish that love rocky bottom and artificial reefs, and they're notorious for their quick, decisive bite. When snapper season opens, it's pure magic – limits come fast when you find the right spot. What makes them so special isn't just the fight, but the fact that they're absolutely delicious on the plate.
Black Sea Bass might not win any beauty contests, but they're scrappy fighters that show up consistently throughout the year. These bottom-dwellers average 1-3 pounds and have an attitude way bigger than their size suggests. They love structure just like snapper, but they're more aggressive and less finicky about bait presentation. Sea bass are perfect for novice anglers because they bite readily and fight hard for their size. Plus, they're excellent eating with firm, white meat that's perfect for the grill or fryer.
King Mackerel, or "Kings" as we call them, are the speed demons of the offshore world. These torpedo-shaped predators can stretch the tape anywhere from 15-40+ pounds and they'll test every component of your tackle system. Kings are typically found around structure and temperature breaks, often suspended in the water column rather than hugging the bottom. When a King hits your bait, you'll know it – they make blistering runs that can strip 100 yards of line in seconds. The fight is what legends are made of, with multiple runs, jumps, and enough attitude to make your arms burn.
Grey Triggerfish are the quirky characters of the offshore scene. These disc-shaped fish have powerful jaws designed for crushing shellfish, and they'll put a serious bend in your rod despite their unusual appearance. Triggers are smart fish – they'll steal your bait, test your patience, and then surprise you with a fight that's way stronger than you'd expect from their body shape. They show up around structure and are most active during warmer months. Many anglers underestimate triggerfish until they hook their first one and realize these fish pack serious power in that compressed body.
Georgia's offshore fishing scene delivers world-class action just a short boat ride from shore. With Cumberland Fishing Charters, you're getting more than just a fishing trip – you're getting access to prime fishing grounds, expert local knowledge, and the kind of personalized service that only comes with small group sizes. Whether you choose the 6-hour or 8-hour option, you'll have plenty of time to work the best spots and target multiple species. The variety keeps things interesting, the action keeps your rod bent, and the memories will keep you planning your next trip before you even hit the dock. Don't wait for the perfect day – book your Georgia offshore adventure and find out why anglers keep coming back to these productive waters season after season.
This 25-foot Contender center console puts you right in the action for serious offshore fishing in Georgia waters. Built in 2017 and powered by twin 350HP Suzuki engines, she cuts through the waves at 37 knots to get you to the fishing grounds fast. The spacious layout accommodates up to four anglers with plenty of elbow room for battling those big Kings and Grouper. Equipped with everything you need for a productive day - GPS navigation keeps you on the productive spots, radar handles those foggy mornings, and the fish finder shows you exactly what's below. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over structure without spooking the fish. There's even a head onboard for those long 6-8 hour trips chasing Red Snapper, Vermilion Snapper, Triggerfish, and Black Seabass. Whether you're bottom fishing the reefs or working the ledges, this boat delivers the performance and comfort to make the most of Georgia's year-round fishing opportunities.
Centropristis Striata## Black Sea Bass Fish Species (Centropristis Striata) ## Fish Description Black Sea Bass is a member of the Grouper family. They are plump-bodied with an extended pelvic and dorsal fin. The dorsal fin comes with a soft rayed rear section and a spiny forward section, marked with a sequence of white spots and bands. Their body color is gray to black, but the center of the scales is white. During the spawning season, males can turn bright blue in color and have a large hump on their heads. Juveniles are brown and have a dark stripe running down the body. ## Fish Size The Black Seabass can reach about 25 inches in length; weigh more than 8 pounds, although most of them caught is less than 4 pounds in weight. The Black Sea Bass world record catch is 10 lb 4 oz. and was caught in Virginia Beach, January 2000. ## Fun Facts About Black Sea Bass Up until recently, the furthest north the black bass was found was Massachusetts. Because of the warming climate, the bass has ventured up to the Gulf of Maine where the water temperatures have increased over the years. They are born as females then change to males. This generally happens when they reach 9 - 13 inches Social interaction can play a big role in this sex reversal. The removal of the big male from the Black Sea Bass population may cause one or more of the remaining bigger females to change sex and play the male role. The female Black Seabass normally matures at the age of 2 to 5 years and produces about 280,000 pelagic eggs. ## Fish Diet Adult and juvenile Black Sea Bass feed on a variety of invertebrates such as hermit crabs, rock crabs, squid, and razor clams. ## Distribution and Habitat  ## Fishing Method The best time to fish for Black Sea Bass is from late spring to summer when they congregate close to the shore. Underwater structures like jetties, piers, and wrecks, is where you will be likely to find them. The bigger males will be found in deeper water and a rocky bottom. The Black Seabass will put up a good fight until it breaks water. A medium-weight rod that's 6-8 feet long with a reel with a 20-30 pound fused, mono or braided line will be successful. They are mostly bottom feeders although they will occasionally strike at jigs, plugs, and lures including a 2 hook bait rig. Live bait such as squid or fish strips is a very good method. The Federal Recreational Black Sea Bass season is February 1 through 28, and May 15 through December 31. ## Habitat During the summer months, they will gather around sunken wrecks, rocky bottoms, old pilings, and wharves and are most abundant at depths of less than 120 feet. Juvenile seabass tend to prefer estuaries where they feed and avoid predators. During the winter months, they migrate to the more south Atlantic states and offshore. ## Distribution Black Seabass are found on the US eastern seaboard from the Gulf of Maine to the Florida Keys and then to the Gulf of Mexico.
Balistes CapriscusGrey Triggerfish are quirky bottom fish with personality - they're curious, aggressive, and surprisingly smart. Running 12-17 inches on average, they hang around hard bottom, ledges, and structure in 30-180 feet. They're year-round residents but bite best spring through fall when they're most active. What makes them fun is their attitude - they'll steal bait right from other fish and aren't shy about it. Sharp teeth and tough mouths make them tricky, but they're excellent table fare with firm, sweet meat. Here's my trick: use small chunks of fresh squid on a small hook, and when you feel that telltale nibbling, don't set the hook right away. Let them take it and run a bit first - they love to test the bait before committing, and patience pays off with these clever fish.
Scomberomorus Cavalla<h2><strong>King Mackerel (</strong><i><strong>Scomberomorus cavalla</strong></i><strong>) Fish Description</strong></h2><p>Also known as Spanish Mackerel or Kingfish, this migratory species belongs to the mackerel family specifically found in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. </p><p>What makes the King Mackerel striking are the small and vaguely visible, loosely attached scales on their entire body. Its dorsal fin is totally without color and usually folded back into a groove (same with the pelvic fins). Generally, King Mackerel are olive in color on the back parts, with a white underbelly, and rosy, iridescent sides. The smaller King Mackerel may have some brown to yellowish spots on the flanks, smaller than that of the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-mackerel">Atlantic Mackerel</a>. Interestingly, the teeth of King Mackerel are highly similar to that of the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/bluefish">Bluefish</a>. </p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel Diet and Size</strong></h2><p>As an opportunistic carnivore with a voracious appetite, King Mackerel have several choices on their food menu. Depending on the season, they may feast on <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/blue-runner">Blue Runner</a>, Northern Mackerel, Striped Anchovy, <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/squeteague">Weakfish</a>, Cutlassfish, Jack, Menhaden, and squid. </p><p>This fish is considered of medium size, typically weighing around 30 pounds; some King Mackerel caught weighed a little over 90 pounds. Females weigh more than males. For example, at 7 years old, a female King Mackerel can weigh 22 pounds, whereas the male is only half as heavy.</p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>Interesting Facts About the King Mackerel </strong></h2><ul><li>The sperm and eggs of King Mackerel are spread into the sea; they are fertilized by chance.</li><li>Fertilized eggs of King Mackerel hatch in less than a day!</li><li>King Mackerel started being marketed fresh only in 2005. Their grayish flesh has a high fat content.</li><li>Along with <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-goldeneye-tilefish">Tilefish</a>, Shark, and <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/swordfish">Swordfish</a>, King Mackerel should be avoided by children and pregnant women due to their high mercury content.</li><li>The King Mackerel is often mistaken for the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-spanish-mackerel">Atlantic Spanish Mackerel</a> and <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/cero">Cero Mackerel</a>. To distinguish them, know that the last two species’ lateral aliens slope gradually from the gill’s top edge to the tail, whereas the King Mackerel’s stops mid-body.</li></ul><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel — Fishing Techniques</strong></h2><p>King Mackerel belong to the most sought-after gamefish in Texas to North Carolina. They are popular due to their speed which is matched only by the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/wahoo">Wahoo</a>, their distant relative. </p><p>The most common ways of capturing King Mackerel are by jigging, trolling, and using live or dead bait, spoons, and other artificial lures.</p><p>Commercial anglers use gear consisting of run-around gill nets. Recreational anglers typically troll using large planers, heavy tackle, and lures. </p><p>If you plan to use live bait, make sure to tie two hooks to a strong metal leader. The first hook (single/treble) must be attached to the live bait’s mouth and/or nose. The second hook (treble) must be put through the bait’s back or allowed to dangle. You must do these because King Mackerel are known to bite the rear section of a live bait.</p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel Habitat and Distribution</strong></h2><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/King_Mackerel_Heat_Map_c15f9805ba.webp" alt=""></figure><p>As a subtropical fish, King Mackerel are found mainly in the Atlantic Coast along the US. They are highly abundant in Brazil, especially Rio de Janeiro, and are also found in North Carolina. This fish also inhabits the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf of Maine, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.</p><p>King Mackerel are commonly found in depths ranging from 40 feet to 150 feet. The bigger King Mackerel are usually found inshore, particularly in harbors and inlets with waters as deep as 590 feet. They occur in waters with temperatures in the range of 68 to 84°F. </p>
Lutjanus Campechanus<h2><strong>Red Snapper (Lutjanus campechanus)</strong> </h2><h3><strong>Fish Description </strong></h3><p>Red Snapper can grow very large. They are pink to light red in color when they are young, and as they mature they turn red over most of their body. The lower area of their body is pale-white in color. </p><p>They are popular with recreational fishermen as well as commercial seafood markets and restaurants. Snappers are bottom dwellers that are a trophy catch for anglers.</p><p> </p><figure class="image"><a href="https://guidesly.com/search"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/Fish_Species_Guide_Click_Banner_087dadb714.png" alt=""></a></figure><h3><strong>Habitat and Distribution</strong></h3><p>The Red Snapper is commonly found on the Atlantic coast of the US and the Gulf of Mexico. They like water temperatures of 50-70 degrees. Juveniles are found inshore and muddy bottoms. Adult snappers are found mainly near structure in deep water. </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/Snapper_HeatMap%401600x_15a36ea8e6.png" alt="Red Snapper Habitat Region Heatmap"><figcaption>Red Snapper Map of Habitat</figcaption></figure><p>Red snapper is commonly found at the depth of 30 - 620 feet in the Gulf of Mexico and down the eastern coast of the US.</p><h3><strong>Size </strong></h3><p>Red snapper can grow to 3 feet and weigh 35 pounds or more, but the average size caught is 1-2 feet long and weighs less than 10 pounds. The world record is 50 lbs 4 oz. the monster was caught off Louisiana water in 1966. Their lifespan is more than 20 years. </p><h3><strong>Spawning</strong></h3><p>Larger, matured Red Snapper produces more eggs than the young ones. A 24-inch female snapper (about 8 years) produces a large number of eggs as 212 17-inch females (about 5 years), most of the red snapper caught in the Gulf today is around 4-6 years old. </p><p>Fertilized eggs drift to the surface and hatch in about one day. After just a month, the young fish settle out of the water column in shallow water, and as they grow older they move to a regulated habitat where they will mature and eventually move to the deeper Gulf waters of the bay. The spawning season is between May and October. </p><p>The females lay eggs in rocky and shallow regions or on coral reefs. Generally, the eggs hatch within a day, and the young one settles out of the water column in shallow waters. </p><h3><strong>Fishing Techniques - How to Catch Red Snapper</strong></h3><p>Red Snapper can be caught using rigs, manual reels, handline, and electric reels, all dressed with heavyweights and multiple hooks. Lure with cigar minnows or fresh squid; pigfish or live pinfish will land the biggest snapper. Other effective bait is octopus, live squid, and shrimp, followed by small natural baitfish in the area. Keep in mind that you need to take the baits down the bottom to where the Red Snapper settles. When fishing Red Snapper, don’t forget that they are true warriors They will give you a real fight when hooked. They will often run to cover or near debris, which can be entangled or even cut your line. </p><p>Snappers can also be caught fly fishing. Some anglers like to work chum in the snapper area and then fly fish to rising fish. But if snapper is near the surface, fly fishing is a great and exciting technique. Rig setup is an 11 - 13-weight fly line tipped with Clouser minnows and deceivers. The key is presenting the fly to the snapper naturally. As the fly floats back toward the snapper, strip the line as you would normally retrieve the fly. The snapper will attack the moving fly.</p><h3><strong>Red Snapper Good to Eat? </strong> </h3><p>Absolutely! Red Snapper is a fish that has a mild and nutty taste. It is delicious and a very popular fish for at home and in restaurants<span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(32,33,36);">. It is considered one of the most in-demand fish. </span>To really experience the true essence of Red Snapper's taste, it is important to cook it with minimal seasoning. A light seasoning of salt and pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice is enough to enhance its natural flavor. Whether baked or pan-fried, this fish tastes delicious when cooked in a straightforward manner. Its taste is one of the main reasons why Red Snapper is such a popular dish among seafood enthusiasts. The next time you eat Red Snapper, try to savor its unique taste by keeping the seasoning simple.</p><p>This tasty fish will not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides numerous health benefits. From improving heart health to aiding in weight loss, red snapper is full of essential nutrients that can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. </p><h3>Health Benefits of Red Snapper</h3><p>Red Snapper is a highly satisfying seafood that is not only an absolute delight to taste buds, but also a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. In addition, Red Snapper is low in calories, high in protein, and low in saturated fats, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to maintain a healthy diet. It is rich in vitamins B12 and D, iron, and potassium, all of which are essential nutrients for a healthy life. As a result, consuming Red Snapper offers numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, improving brain function and memory, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin and hair. When it comes to choosing a delicious and healthy seafood option, Red Snapper is undoubtedly an excellent choice.</p><p> </p>
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