Orlando Saltwater Fishing with Captain Paycheck
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Worldrenowned Captain David Paycheck leads this saltwater adventureTarget Snook, Redfish, and Speckled Trout in Indian RiverEighthour offshore fishing experience accommodates two guests maximum
Just an hour from Orlando's theme parks, you'll find some of Florida's best inshore saltwater fishing in the legendary waters around Titusville. Captain David Paycheck has been putting anglers on trophy fish in the Indian River system for years, and this 8-hour adventure is your ticket to world-class action. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add Florida species to your life list or someone who's never held a saltwater rod, this trip delivers the kind of fishing that keeps people coming back to the Space Coast year after year.
Captain Paycheck runs a tight ship that accommodates just two anglers, which means you'll get personalized attention and prime fishing spots without the crowds. The Indian River lagoon system around Titusville offers everything from shallow grass flats where redfish cruise in skinny water to deeper channels where snook ambush baitfish. You'll launch early and spend the day moving between productive areas, adjusting tactics based on tides, weather, and what the fish are doing. The boat is equipped with quality rods, reels, and terminal tackle – everything you need to battle these hard-fighting inshore species. Captain Paycheck knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got the local knowledge to put you on fish when other guides are struggling. The pace stays active throughout the 8-hour trip, with minimal downtime between spots.
This isn't your typical offshore trolling trip – inshore fishing in the Indian River requires finesse and local expertise. You'll work everything from live bait presentations under docks and mangroves to artificial lures cast into schools of feeding fish. Captain Paycheck specializes in sight fishing, where you'll actually see redfish tailing in the shallows before making your cast. For snook, expect to pitch live shrimp or pilchards tight to structure, letting the bait swim naturally into the strike zone. The grass flats come alive with speckled trout, especially when you're working topwater plugs during low-light periods. All gear is provided, including circle hooks for easy releases and a variety of weights to match changing conditions. The captain handles the boat positioning and reads the water, while you focus on making accurate casts and fighting fish. Polarized sunglasses are essential for spotting fish in the clear water, and the captain will coach you through proper techniques for each species.
Redfish are the bread and butter of Indian River fishing, and these copper-colored bulldogs provide some of the most visual and exciting action you'll find anywhere. These fish range from schoolie-sized 20-inchers up to bull reds pushing 40 inches and 30+ pounds. They're most active during moving tides and can be found year-round, though fall and winter months often produce the largest fish. What makes redfish so special is their willingness to feed in extremely shallow water – sometimes with their backs completely exposed – creating heart-pounding sight fishing opportunities. They fight like freight trains, using their broad sides to pull drag and test your skills.
Snook are the ultimate inshore gamefish, combining aggressive strikes with acrobatic fights that'll have you white-knuckling your rod. These fish are structure-oriented, hiding under docks, bridges, and mangrove overhangs where they ambush passing baitfish. The Indian River holds some true giants – fish over 30 inches that can straighten hooks and bust lines if you're not ready. Peak snook action happens during warmer months, with dawn and dusk producing the most explosive topwater strikes. Their gill-rattling jumps and powerful runs make every hookup a memorable experience, and their prehistoric appearance adds to the appeal.
Speckled trout might be the most cooperative species you'll encounter, often feeding in schools over grass beds where you can catch multiple fish from the same spot. These spotted beauties average 2-4 pounds but can reach 6+ pounds in these fertile waters. They're active throughout the year, with spring and fall offering peak action. Trout respond well to both live bait and artificials, making them perfect for anglers wanting to learn different techniques. Their delicate mouths require smooth hooksets, but their willingness to bite makes them ideal for building confidence and keeping the action steady throughout the day.
Captain David Paycheck's reputation for putting clients on fish speaks for itself, and trips like this book up fast, especially during prime fishing seasons. The 8-hour format gives you maximum time on the water without feeling rushed, and the intimate 2-angler setup ensures everyone gets plenty of rod time. Whether you're visiting Orlando and want a break from the tourist scene, or you're a local looking to experience world-class inshore fishing, this trip delivers the kind of action that turns casual anglers into saltwater addicts. The Indian River system is one of Florida's most productive fisheries, and there's no better way to experience it than with a captain who lives and breathes these waters. Book now and get ready for a day of fishing that'll have you planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock.
Set out from Titusville aboard our well-equipped motorboat designed for serious saltwater fishing. This fishing machine comes loaded with everything you need to target Snook, Redfish, and Speckled Trout in the Indian River waters. The onboard fish finder helps locate schools and structure where game fish hide, while GPS keeps you on the productive spots. When stealth matters for spooky fish, the wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly without spooking your targets. Fresh ice keeps your catch pristine throughout the 8-hour adventure. Captain David Paycheck knows these waters inside and out, putting you on fish just an hour from Orlando. Perfect for 2 anglers looking to experience some of Florida's best inshore fishing action in comfortable, fisherman-friendly boat designed for the saltwater environment.
Micropterus SalmoidesWhile we're primarily a saltwater operation, the brackish areas of the Indian River hold some solid largemouth bass that average 2-4 pounds. These green fighters with the oversized mouths love hanging around submerged structure, downed trees, and thick vegetation in the deeper pockets. Early morning and late afternoon during the cooler months produce the best bites when they're actively feeding. Bass are a blast because they'll hit hard and jump when hooked, plus they're not picky - they'll smash everything from topwater plugs to plastic worms. The fight they put up pound-for-pound is tough to beat. Local trick: if the water's murky from wind or rain, throw something with red in it - they're naturally drawn to that color and it'll help them find your bait in stained water.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are hands down one of our most popular targets here in the Indian River. These copper-colored beauties with their signature black spots average 20-30 inches and love cruising our shallow flats in just 1-4 feet of water. You'll find them around oyster bars, grass beds, and dock pilings where they hunt for crabs and shrimp. Fall through spring offers the best action when cooler water has them feeding aggressively. What makes them special? They fight hard, taste great with that mild sweet flavor, and give you those heart-pounding sight fishing opportunities in skinny water. Pro tip: when you spot one tailing, cast your shrimp or soft plastic jig about 3 feet ahead of where they're heading - they spook easily if you drop it right on their head.
Centropomus UndecimalisSnook are the ultimate inshore gamefish here in Titusville - sleek, silver missiles with that distinctive black lateral stripe and serious attitude. Most run 24-32 inches and pack incredible speed in short bursts. They're ambush predators that love mangrove shorelines, bridge pilings, and creek mouths where fresh water meets salt. Summer months are prime time when they're most active, especially around the new and full moons. What makes snook fishing addictive? They're smart, finicky, and when hooked, they'll make blistering runs and try to cut you off in structure. Plus they're catch-and-release only, making each one special. Best advice: use live shrimp or pilchards and keep them close to cover. Snook rarely chase baits in open water - they want easy meals right next to their hideouts.
Fort Pierce