Half Day Beginner-Friendly Boca Grande Fishing
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
4hour private inshore trip targets King Mackerel and Red SnapperBeginnerfriendly charter includes all gear, tackle, and fishing licensesAccommodates up to 6 guests with expert captain guidance
When you're looking for world-class inshore fishing without the commitment of a full day on the water, this 4-hour Boca Grande charter hits the sweet spot. Captain and crew from Family Traditions Charter Co. know these waters like the back of their hand, and they'll put you on fish whether you've been casting lines for decades or just picked up a rod last week. The beauty of Boca Grande's inshore waters is the variety – one minute you're battling a king mackerel, the next you're watching a massive tarpon roll just off your bow. With all gear, tackle, and licenses included, you just need to show up with snacks, drinks, and the desire to catch some fish.
Your half-day adventure kicks off in some of the Gulf Coast's most productive fishing grounds, where shallow flats meet deeper channels and structure holds plenty of hungry fish. The captain will read the conditions – wind, tide, bait movement – and adjust the game plan accordingly. Some days that means working the grass flats for redfish, other days it's trolling the edges for kings or positioning over structure where gag grouper like to hang out. The boat accommodates up to 6 anglers, making it perfect for family outings or a group of friends who want to split the cost. Don't worry if you're new to saltwater fishing – the crew takes pride in teaching proper techniques while keeping experienced anglers challenged. You'll learn to read the water, understand why fish hold in certain spots, and pick up tricks that'll serve you well on future fishing trips.
Depending on what's biting and where the fish are holding, you'll experience different fishing methods throughout the trip. Live bait fishing with shrimp, pinfish, or sardines works magic around structure and grass beds where redfish and grouper patrol. When targeting king mackerel, expect some trolling action with spoons, plugs, or rigged baits that cover water and locate schools. The captain carries quality spinning and conventional gear matched to the target species, from lighter tackle for trout and reds to heavier setups when tarpon show up. You'll fish everything from 2 feet of water on the flats to 30-foot depths around channels and drop-offs. The crew handles all the rigging, bait preparation, and net work, so you can focus on feeling that first tap and setting the hook. They'll also teach you proper fighting techniques and how to handle different species safely for photos and release.
Gag grouper are the bottom dwellers that make every angler smile when they feel that distinctive thump-thump bite. These chunky fish hang around hard structure, ledges, and rocky areas in 15-30 feet of water. They're notorious for trying to get back to their holes once hooked, so you'll need to muscle them up quickly. Gags are most active during cooler months, and they're excellent table fare if you're looking to take a few home for dinner.
Tarpon are the silver kings that turn a good day into an legendary one. These prehistoric giants can show up any time but are most common from late spring through early fall. When a 100-pound tarpon explodes on your bait and starts jumping, everything else stops. Most tarpon are catch-and-release, but the photos and memories last forever. They're often found rolling in passes, around bridges, and along deeper flats during moving tides.
King mackerel are the speed demons of the Gulf, with razor-sharp teeth and blistering runs that test your drag system. They school up offshore but often move into nearshore waters chasing bait. Kings are most active during warmer months and respond well to both trolling and live bait fishing. They're excellent eating and provide some of the most consistent action when they're around.
Redfish are the copper-colored bruisers that cruise shallow flats and mangrove shorelines. They're year-round residents that eat just about anything and fight hard in shallow water. Reds are perfect for beginners because they're forgiving on technique but still provide plenty of excitement. You'll often see them tailing in skinny water or cruising grass beds in small schools.
Tripletail are the oddball species that float like leaves around structure, buoys, and debris. They're ambush predators with a unique appearance and exceptional table quality. Tripletail fishing requires patience and precision since they're often spooky and selective about their food. Finding one is exciting, but they're never guaranteed – which makes catching them even more special.
This top-rated half-day charter offers the perfect introduction to Boca Grande's renowned inshore fishing scene. Whether you're a local looking for a quick fishing fix or visiting the area for the first time, 4 hours gives you enough time to experience different fishing styles and target multiple species without burning a whole day. The captain's local knowledge and commitment to putting clients on fish has made this a customer favorite for good reason. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so plan accordingly, but also know that you're booking with a crew that takes pride in delivering memorable days on the water. Bring your camera, pack some snacks and drinks, and get ready to see why anglers keep coming back to these productive Gulf Coast waters year after year.
Your fishing adventure starts aboard this well-maintained 23' Hanson center console, built in 2017 and powered by a reliable 150HP Suzuki engine that'll get you to the productive spots around Boca Grande waters at speeds up to 25 knots. The spacious layout comfortably fits your group of up to 6 anglers, whether you're targeting King Mackerel or hoping to hook into some of those famous Boca Grande tarpon. The boat comes equipped with everything serious anglers need - a fish finder to locate schools, GPS to mark your best spots, VHF radio for safety, and even a wireless trolling motor for those times when you need to move quietly through the shallows without spooking the fish. There's an onboard toilet for convenience during your 4-hour trip, so you can stay focused on the action instead of heading back to shore. Perfect for both rookie anglers getting their first taste of Gulf Coast fishing and experienced fishermen looking to explore these productive inshore waters.
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag Grouper average around 20 inches but can reach 4+ feet and 80 pounds - the bigger ones put up a serious fight. They love structure like rocky bottoms, reefs, and old wrecks where they can ambush prey. You'll find them in 40-150 feet of water, though juveniles hang closer to shore. Fall through spring offers the best action when water temps cool down. What makes them fun to target is their hard strike and bulldogging runs - once hooked, they'll try dragging your bait straight back to their hole. The meat is excellent eating, firm and flaky. Pro tip: keep your drag locked tight and don't give them any line to run with. The second they feel the hook, they're heading for the nearest structure to break you off.
Scomberomorus CavallaKings are speed demons that'll test your drag system - averaging 15-30 pounds with some pushing 50+. They patrol depths from 40-150 feet, cruising over structure and following baitfish. Spring through fall gives you the best shots when they're actively feeding. What makes them a blast is their blistering runs and sharp teeth that can slice through mono in seconds. They're also excellent table fare with rich, flaky meat. Trolling with spoons or live bait works great. My go-to trick is using a wire leader with two hooks - one in the bait's nose, another trailing behind. Kings often bite the tail end of live bait, so that second hook saves the day. When one hits, hang on tight because they're heading for the horizon fast.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are perfect for sight fishing in 1-4 feet of water around grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines. They average 20-30 inches and 5-15 pounds, with that distinctive black spot near the tail. Year-round fishing here, but fall and winter offer cooler water action when they school up. What makes them special is watching them cruise the shallows with their backs almost out of water - plus they eat well with sweet, mild meat. They'll hit everything from topwater plugs to live shrimp. Best advice: when you spot one tailing in shallow water, cast well ahead of where it's heading and let your bait sit still. They spook easily, so patience beats aggressive casting every time. The strike is explosive when it happens.
Megalops AtlanticusThe Silver King is what dreams are made of - these giants average 4-6 feet and 80-100 pounds, but monsters over 200 exist. They cruise shallow flats, harbors, and passes looking for baitfish. Spring through fall is prime time here in Boca Grande, especially during mullet runs. What hooks anglers is their aerial show - they'll jump 10 feet out of the water multiple times, trying to throw your hook. Most folks practice catch and release since they're not great eating. Live bait like mullet or pinfish works best. Here's the key: when one jumps, bow to the fish by dropping your rod tip toward the water. This gives slack so they can't use their body weight against the line and throw the hook. Pure adrenaline from start to finish.
Lobotes SurinamensisTripletail are oddball fish that float on their sides near the surface, looking like floating debris until you get close. They run 18 inches and 2-5 pounds typically, with some reaching 15+ pounds. Summer through early fall is prime time when they cruise weed lines and structure in 10-50 feet. What's cool is sight casting to them - they're surface feeders that put up a scrappy fight for their size. The meat rivals snapper or grouper, firm and sweet. Live shrimp or small crabs work best. Here's the secret: when you spot one "playing dead" near floating grass, cast past it and slowly work your bait into their strike zone. They're ambush predators, so let them think your bait just wandered by naturally.
Boca Grande