Cocoa Beach Full Day Deep Sea Fishing
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Ninehour offshore fishing trip targets Mahi, Grouper, and SnapperAll bait, tackle, and licenses included with expert crew assistanceAccommodates up to six guests departing daily at seven AM
When you're serious about getting after the big ones, this full-day charter is exactly what you need. Nine hours on the water with Fin & Fly Charters gives you the time to really get out there and work the best offshore grounds around Cocoa Beach. We're talking about heading to spots where the water's deep blue, the fish are hungry, and your chances of boxing something impressive go way up. Captain knows these waters like the back of his hand and adjusts the game plan based on what's biting and where the action is that day.
Rolling out at 7:00 AM means you'll beat the crowds and hit the fishing grounds while conditions are prime. This isn't a rushed trip where you're constantly watching the clock – with nine hours, you've got time to really work different areas and techniques until you find what's working. The boat handles up to six anglers comfortably, so whether you're bringing the crew or booking with another group, there's plenty of room to fish without getting in each other's way. All your bait, tackle, and fishing licenses are covered, plus the crew's there to help whether you're a weekend warrior or just getting your feet wet with offshore fishing. The captain tailors every trip to current conditions, which means you're not stuck fishing one spot if the bite's slow – we're moving to where the fish are.
Deep sea fishing off Cocoa Beach means working a variety of techniques depending on what we're targeting and what the conditions allow. You'll be trolling with planers and downriggers to cover water and find active schools, then switching to live bait fishing when we mark fish on the finder. The boat's rigged with quality tackle that can handle everything from schoolie mahi to monster grouper in the deep structure. When we're working the edges and drop-offs, you'll be bottom fishing with heavy tackle and circle hooks to get down to where the big snapper and grouper hang out. If the conditions are right and we find birds working, we'll break out the spinning gear for some sight fishing on whatever's pushing bait to the surface. The crew handles all the rigging and re-baiting, so you can focus on fighting fish instead of tying knots.
Wahoo are the speed demons of the offshore world, and when one hits your trolled bait, you'll know it instantly. These fish can hit 50+ miles per hour and make blistering runs that'll test your drag and your nerves. Peak season runs from late fall through early spring, and they're absolute dynamite on light tackle. The meat's white, flaky, and some of the best eating you'll find offshore – think of it as the fish version of prime rib.
Cobia are the brown sharks that aren't actually sharks, and they're one of the most exciting sight fishing opportunities off Cocoa Beach. These fish cruise near the surface around structure and wrecks, often following rays and sharks. Spring and early summer are prime time, and they'll readily take live bait or jigs worked near the bottom. They fight like bulldogs and can push 40-50 pounds, making for an arm-burning battle that'll leave you grinning.
Red Snapper are the crown jewel of bottom fishing, and the deep structure off Cocoa Beach holds some real quality fish. When snapper season's open, these guys are aggressive feeders that'll hammer live pinfish or cut bait dropped down to the bottom. They're smart fish that require finesse and the right presentation, but when you hook into a 10+ pound red snapper, the steady head-shaking fight and incredible table fare make it all worthwhile.
Goliath Grouper are the giants of the deep, and encountering one of these submarine-sized fish is something you'll never forget. These monsters can exceed 400 pounds and live around deep structure and wrecks. They're catch-and-release only, but the experience of hooking into what feels like the bottom of the ocean, only to have it start swimming away, is pure adrenaline. Summer months offer the best opportunities, and the crew knows exactly how to handle these protected giants safely.
Atlantic Sailfish are Florida's signature gamefish, and the waters off Cocoa Beach see good numbers during winter months. These are the fish that'll test your skills with their acrobatic jumps and lightning-fast runs. Trolling with live bait or rigged ballyhoo is the preferred method, and when a sail comes up hot on the baits, the anticipation builds until that electric moment when they eat. The fight is spectacular, with multiple jumps and direction changes that'll keep you on your toes.
This full-day trip is perfect for groups who want to maximize their time on the water and really experience what offshore fishing in Cocoa Beach is all about. With all tackle, bait, and licenses included, you just need to show up ready to fish and maybe bring some snacks and drinks for the day. Remember that tips aren't included, and 15-20% for the captain and crew is standard when they've worked hard to put you on fish. The deposit is non-refundable, so make sure your dates work before booking, but once you're locked in, you're set for a day of fishing that could easily become the highlight of your Florida trip.
This 33' Priority offshore sportfisher cuts through Cocoa Beach waters with authority, powered by a reliable 450 HP Cummins engine that gets you to the deep water fishing grounds where the big fish live. Completely restored in 2019, she's loaded with everything serious anglers need - GPS navigation, advanced fish finder, outriggers, downriggers, and a live bait tank to keep your offerings fresh. The flybridge gives you excellent visibility of the action below, while the onboard toilet means comfort during those long 9-hour fishing days. An icebox keeps your drinks cold and your catch fresh as you target mahi mahi, grouper, snapper, and king mackerel in the productive offshore waters. With space for up to 6 anglers, this boat handles both seasoned fishermen and newcomers with ease, providing a stable platform for battling whatever decides to bite your line.
Istiophorus AlbicansAtlantic sailfish are the acrobats of the deep - sleek blue-gray fish with that signature tall dorsal fin that can stretch nearly 10 feet long. These speedsters cruise the surface waters 30-65 feet deep, hunting schools of baitfish in the warm blue water offshore. Winter months are prime time here in Florida when they migrate through our waters. What makes sailfish fishing special is the aerial show - they'll jump, tail-walk, and put on a display unlike any other fish. Most average 6-7 feet and around 50 pounds. They're typically released, making it all about the experience and photos. The key to success is slow-trolling live bait or using a teaser to get them fired up. Once you get a bite, keep steady pressure but don't horse them - let them run and jump, then work them back when they settle down.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the loners of the offshore world - big brown fish that cruise solo and fight like freight trains. These bruisers average around 6 feet and 100 pounds, but we've seen them push well beyond that. They hang around reefs, wrecks, and any structure in 30-300 feet of water, often just under the surface where you can spot them cruising. Spring through fall is prime time, especially during their spawning runs. What guests love about cobia is the visual game - seeing these big fish swim up to the boat, then watching them absolutely bend rods when hooked. They're also top-shelf table fare with firm, sweet meat. Here's a local trick: when sight fishing for cobia, cast your bucktail jig well ahead of where they're swimming and work it back slowly. They're curious but spook easily, so patience pays off.
Epinephelus ItajaraGoliath grouper are the giants of our reefs - massive fish that can reach 8 feet and several hundred pounds. These prehistoric-looking bruisers live around structure in shallow water, typically 50-150 feet deep on wrecks, reefs, and ledges. They're year-round residents, though summer months tend to be most productive. What makes goliath grouper fishing special is the sheer power - that first pull can literally drag you across the deck if you're not ready. Remember, these fish are protected and must be released, but the experience of hooking into one is unforgettable. The fight is usually intense but short-lived as they try to get back to their holes. Bring heavy tackle - 50-80 class reels with 400+ pound mono. Pro tip: anchor close enough to the structure that they'll come out to feed, but far enough that you can muscle them away before they break you off in the rocks.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the crown jewel of bottom fishing - beautiful red fish that live on reefs and wrecks in 30-200+ feet of water. Most of what we catch runs 1-2 feet long and weighs 5-10 pounds, though they can grow much larger. These bottom dwellers love structure, so we target offshore reefs, ledges, and artificial reefs where they school up. May through October is peak season when they're spawning and most active. Anglers love red snapper because they fight hard for their size and they're absolutely delicious - mild, sweet, and flaky. They're also perfect for families since kids can catch them too. My go-to tip: use circle hooks with live pinfish or cut squid, drop it right to the bottom, then reel up just a few cranks. Keep steady pressure when you hook one or they'll run straight back to the rocks.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are some of the fastest fish in the ocean, hitting speeds up to 60 mph with their torpedo-shaped bodies. These silver speedsters with blue zebra stripes average 3-5 feet and pack serious fight when hooked. We find them in open water, usually 30-66 feet deep, often around floating debris or structure. They're abundant here July through November, making our full-day trips perfect timing. What makes wahoo special is that lightning-fast strike and blistering initial run - they'll test your drag system for sure. Plus, they're fantastic eating with delicate white meat that's perfect for the grill. Pro tip: when trolling for wahoo, use wire leaders since their razor-sharp teeth will slice through mono in a heartbeat. High-speed trolling with diving plugs or ballyhoo works best.
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