5.0(1 Reviews)Guided Fishing Trip In Shalimar, Florida
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target amberjack, grouper, and mahi mahi in federal watersInshore fishing charter accommodates up to 5 guests maximumIncludes stops at Crab Island for relaxation between fishing
Ready to hit some of the best fishing waters the Gulf Coast has to offer? This guided charter out of Shalimar puts you right in the heart of federally managed waters where the big fish live. Captain Tanner knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got a knack for putting you on fish that'll have you talking for years. We're talking amberjack that'll test your drag, king mackerel that'll scream line off your reel, and red snapper that are as tasty as they are fun to fight. Plus, when the fish are taking a break, we can swing by Crab Island for some relaxation or just cruise around and soak up that Florida sun. This isn't just another fishing trip - it's your chance to get into some serious action with a captain who genuinely loves seeing folks hook into their fish of a lifetime.
We'll head out from Shalimar and make our way to the productive federal waters where the structure holds the best fish. These deeper waters are home to some serious gamefish, and that's where we'll spend most of our time. The boat holds up to 5 anglers comfortably, so you've got plenty of room to fight fish without getting tangled up with your buddies. Captain Tanner runs a top-rated operation and knows exactly where to find the honey holes that produce consistent action. The vibe on board is relaxed but focused - we're here to catch fish, but we're also here to have a good time doing it. Whether you're bringing the kids for their first real fishing adventure or you're a seasoned angler looking to add some Gulf Coast species to your list, this trip delivers. The federal waters off Shalimar are renowned for holding quality fish year-round, and we've got the local knowledge to put you on them when they're biting best.
We fish these waters using a mix of techniques depending on what's biting and where we find them. For the amberjack and grouper, we'll drop down to the bottom structure with heavy tackle and fresh bait. These fish live around wrecks and hard bottom, so we'll position over the best spots and send down some serious offerings. The mackerel fishing is a different game entirely - we'll troll the blue water with spoons and live bait, covering ground until we find the schools. When the kings are running, you'll know it immediately when that reel starts singing. For the triggerfish and snapper, we'll anchor up on productive spots and fish the bottom with circle hooks and cut bait. All the gear you need is provided, from the heavy tackle for the big amberjack to the lighter setups for the mackerel. Captain Tanner will get you rigged up properly and make sure you know how to handle whatever comes up from the depths. The key to success out here is reading the water, understanding the fish behavior, and being ready when they decide to feed.
"My family definitely had the best time with Captain Tanner!! This was an experience they will never forget. He is very knowledgeable and was great helping my 12 yr old. Definitely recommend!" - Tracy
Red snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf Coast fishing, and these federal waters hold some beautiful fish. These crimson fighters typically run 15-25 pounds out here, with some real trophies pushing 30 pounds or better. They're structure-oriented fish that live around wrecks, reefs, and hard bottom areas. Red snapper are most active during the cooler months, but when they're biting, they'll hit fresh cut bait aggressively. What makes them so special isn't just the fight - though they'll give you a good battle on the way up - it's that they're absolutely delicious on the table. Their firm white meat is prized by anglers and chefs alike.
Spanish mackerel are one of the most fun fish you'll tangle with in these waters. These speedsters typically range from 2-5 pounds and are absolute rockets when hooked. They school up in massive numbers during their peak season from spring through fall, and when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They love small spoons, live bait, and anything that moves fast through the water. Spanish mackerel are perfect for kids and beginners because they bite readily and put up a spirited fight without being too overwhelming. They're also excellent table fare when prepared fresh.
King mackerel are the big brothers of the mackerel family and are considered one of the premier gamefish in the Gulf. These torpedo-shaped predators can reach 40-50 pounds or more, and when they hit your bait, you'll know it instantly. Kings are famous for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps, making them a customer favorite among serious anglers. They prefer deeper waters and are most active during the warmer months. We target them with live bait, large spoons, and diving plugs. The key to landing a big king is having your drag set properly and being ready for that initial run.
Greater amberjack are the bullies of the deep structure, and catching one is like hooking into a freight train. These powerful fish can exceed 50-60 pounds and will test every piece of your tackle. They live around wrecks, reefs, and other vertical structure in deeper water. Amberjack are most active during the cooler months and are known for their stubborn, dogged fight that seems to go on forever. They're not the prettiest fish in the Gulf, but they're definitely one of the strongest. When you hook a big amber, get ready for a battle - they'll use every trick in the book to get back to their structure.
Grey triggerfish are the most underrated fighters in these waters. Don't let their size fool you - these 3-5 pound fish punch way above their weight class. They're incredibly
Our well-equipped motorboat gets you to the fish in Shalimar's productive waters. The wireless trolling motor lets us position quietly over structure without spooking the amberjack and grouper below. GPS navigation takes us straight to the best fishing spots, while the fish finder shows exactly where the schools are holding. This reliable fishing platform handles up to 5 anglers comfortably, with plenty of room to fight those hard-pulling cobia and mahi mahi. The boat's stable design makes it perfect for both experienced anglers and newcomers to offshore fishing. From targeting mackerel near the surface to dropping down for triggerfish, this vessel handles whatever the Gulf of Mexico throws at us.
Seriola dumeriliGreater amberjack are the Gulf's heavyweight brawlers, commonly hitting 30-50 pounds with some topping 80 pounds. These bluish-grey torpedoes with amber stripes cruise wrecks, rigs, and deep structure in 80-300 feet of water. Spring spawning season brings the best action, though they bite year-round when conditions are right. What sets them apart? Pure power - they'll drag you around the boat with runs that test your gear and stamina. The meat is excellent when properly handled, with firm white fillets. They're not picky eaters, hitting live bait, jigs, and trolled lures. Here's the key: use heavy tackle (50+ pound line) and keep constant pressure. The moment you back off, they'll dive for structure and cut you off. Fight them hard from the start - it's the only way to win.
Balistes CapriscusGrey triggerfish are the Gulf's ultimate tricksters - tough to hook but worth every effort. These disc-shaped fish average 12-16 inches and pack surprising strength in their compressed bodies. They live around hard bottom, reefs, and structure in 60-180 feet, using their beak-like mouths to crush crabs and urchins. Summer and early fall offer the best shots when they're most active. What makes them fun? They're incredibly smart, often stealing bait without getting hooked, making each catch feel earned. Plus, they're excellent table fare with firm, white meat. They're notorious bait thieves, so here's the trick: use small chunks of fresh squid on a small hook, drop it to the bottom, then reel up fast to keep tension. When you feel that subtle tap-tap, set the hook immediately.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing mackerel are the Gulf's premier speed merchants, averaging 20-40 pounds with some reaching 60+ pounds. These olive-backed bruisers patrol 40-150 feet of water along structure and drop-offs, following baitfish movements. Spring through fall brings peak action as they migrate through our waters chasing schools of menhaden and blue runners. Kings are prized for their blistering runs that can strip 200 yards of line in seconds - it's pure adrenaline. The meat is rich and oily, perfect for smoking or grilling. Most anglers target them trolling, but live bait works great too. Local tip: always use a wire leader and rig with two hooks - one through the bait's nose, another trailing behind. Kings love to hit the tail section first, so that stinger hook saves the day.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are true bottom dwellers that'll give you a serious workout once hooked. These pink-to-red beauties typically run 1-2 feet and 5-10 pounds, though we've seen some monsters push 20+ pounds. They hang around structure in 30-200 feet - think wrecks, ledges, and rocky bottom. Spring through fall offers the best action when water temps hit that sweet spot of 60-75 degrees. What makes them special? They fight like crazy, diving straight for cover to cut your line, plus they're absolutely delicious with that mild, sweet flavor. The meat alone makes them worth targeting. Pro tip: when you feel that thump, don't hesitate - set the hook hard and keep steady pressure to pull them up and away from structure before they wrap you up.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are speed demons that'll test your reflexes. These silvery rockets with yellow spots typically measure 12-20 inches and weigh 2-4 pounds, but they're some of the fastest fish in the Gulf at nearly 20 mph. You'll find schools roaming near the surface over grass flats and around structure in 10-40 feet of water. They're most active during warmer months from spring through early fall when baitfish are thick. What draws anglers? That blazing speed creates wild runs, plus they're fantastic eating with mild, flaky meat perfect for grilling. They hit hard and fast on small lures and live bait. Here's a local trick: when you spot diving birds, get there quick and cast small spoons or jigs into the frenzy - the mackerel are likely feeding below.
5.0 out of 5.0My family definitely had the best time with Captain Tanner!! This was an experience they will never forget. He is very knowledgeab...
Destin