6-Hour Private Inshore/Nearshore Fishing
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
6hour private charter targets snapper, grouper, and hogfishAccommodates up to 4 guests with light to heavy tackleSeasonal opportunities for cobia and kingfish catches
Looking for a solid day on the water targeting some of the most sought-after species in our local waters? This top-rated 6-hour private charter with Lucky Strike Fishing Charters puts you right where the action is. We're talking prime inshore and nearshore grounds where the bottom structure holds everything from fat grouper to colorful snappers. With room for up to 4 anglers, this trip gives you the perfect mix of relaxed fishing and heart-pounding hookups without the crowds of party boats.
Captain and crew know these waters like the back of their hand, and they'll put you on fish from the moment we clear the inlet. We're targeting the good stuff - various snapper species, hogfish, and grouper that call these reefs and ledges home. Depending on when you book, the season might throw us some curveballs like cobia cruising the surface or kingfish slashing through bait schools. The beauty of this charter is the variety - one minute you're bottom fishing for a nice mutton snapper, the next you might be fighting a bull red grouper trying to get back to his cave. Every cast has potential, and that's what keeps anglers coming back trip after trip.
We run everything from light spinning gear to heavy conventional setups depending on what we're after and where we're fishing. Live bait is king out here - nothing beats a frisky pinfish or grunt when you're trying to coax a big grouper out from under a ledge. The crew will have you rigged up with circle hooks and the right weight to get your bait down to where these fish live. We're talking 30 to 80 feet of water most of the time, working structure that shows up on the electronics. When the cobia show up in spring, we might switch gears completely and throw sight-fishing into the mix. The captain reads the conditions and adjusts tactics accordingly - that's the difference between a good day and a great day on the water.
Red Grouper are the bread and butter of these trips, and for good reason. These chunky fighters average 5 to 15 pounds and know how to use every bit of structure to their advantage. They're most active during cooler months, though you'll find them year-round if you know where to look. The second that circle hook finds its mark, a red grouper will make a beeline for the nearest cave or crevice. It's a tug-of-war that gets your heart pumping every single time. Plus, they're absolutely delicious on the dinner table - firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or frying.
Hogfish are probably the most unique catch you'll encounter on this trip. These reef dwellers have an almost pig-like snout they use to root around for crustaceans and small fish. They're incredibly smart and can be finicky eaters, which makes landing one feel like a real accomplishment. Most hogfish run 2 to 8 pounds, but don't let the size fool you - they fight hard and their white, flaky meat is considered a delicacy by those in the know. Peak season runs from fall through early spring when they're most active on the reefs.
Mutton Snapper are the glamour fish of the snapper family, with their bright colors and aggressive strikes. These fish can get surprisingly large - anything over 10 pounds is a real trophy, though most run in the 3 to 8 pound range. They're notorious for their sharp teeth and ability to cut through lighter leaders, so we use wire or heavy fluorocarbon when targeting them specifically. Summer and fall are prime time for muttons, especially around full moon phases when they're most active. They're also fantastic eating with sweet, mild meat that's perfect for ceviche or blackened preparations.
Lane Snapper might be smaller than their mutton cousins, but they make up for it in numbers and attitude. These feisty little fighters rarely exceed 2 pounds, but they're scrappy and willing to bite when other fish are being picky. They're perfect for newer anglers or anyone who just wants steady action and bent rods. Lane snappers are active year-round and often save the day when other species aren't cooperating. They're also excellent bait for larger predators, so don't be surprised if the captain suggests using one to target something bigger lurking nearby.
This world-class fishing experience fills up fast, especially during peak seasons when the bite is hot. Six hours gives you plenty of time to work different spots, try various techniques, and put together a solid box of fish without feeling rushed. The crew provides all the gear, bait, and local knowledge you need - just bring your fishing license, sunscreen, and appetite for some serious angling action. Whether you're a seasoned pro or someone looking to get into the sport, this charter delivers the kind of fishing memories that keep you planning your next trip before this one even ends. Give Lucky Strike Fishing Charters a call and secure your dates - the fish are waiting, and so is your best fishing story yet.
Lachnolaimus MaximusHogfish are probably the most unique fish you'll encounter on our trips. That pig-like snout isn't just for show - they use it to root around in the sand hunting crabs and shrimp. Most run 2-8 pounds and up to 2 feet long, living around coral reefs and hard bottom areas in 10-100 feet. They're curious fish that'll often swim right up to check you out. The challenge? Their mouths make them tricky to hook with traditional tackle. Live shrimp works best, but you need quick reflexes since they're fast strikers. What keeps people coming back is the table fare - hogfish are hands down some of the best eating fish in these waters, with sweet, mild meat that beats most grouper. Try making noise in the water to attract them - they love the vibrations.
Lutjanus SynagrisLane Snappers are what we call our "bonus fish" - they show up when you're targeting other species and always put a smile on your face. These colorful little fighters run 1-4 pounds and rarely get bigger than 14 inches, but they punch above their weight class. You'll find them around coral reefs and sandy bottoms with grass beds, usually in 10-60 feet of water. They're aggressive biters that aren't shy about hooks, making them great for newer anglers or kids. The pink and yellow striped sides make them one of the prettiest catches you'll see. They're most active at night, but we catch plenty during the day. March through September is prime time when they're spawning. Use small hooks with shrimp or cut bait - they're not picky but they are scrappy fighters.
Lutjanus AnalisMutton Snapper are the prize fighters of the snapper family. These pinkish fish with blue streaks under their eyes typically run 3-8 pounds, though we've seen some push 20+ pounds. They love sandy areas near reefs and structure, usually in 15-80 feet of water. Adults tend to be loners or travel in small groups, making each catch feel special. What sets them apart is that fight - they're stronger than other snappers and will make impressive runs once hooked. The meat is top-shelf too. They're picky eaters, so fresh bait is crucial. Use light weights and let your shrimp or crab drift naturally in the current. Here's the key: once you see that pink flash coming up through the water, keep steady pressure and lead them away from the bottom structure.
Epinephelus MorioRed Grouper are one of our most sought-after catches, and for good reason. These rusty-red beauties typically run 5-15 pounds, though we see some pushing 30+ pounds on the right day. You'll find them hanging around rocky bottoms, ledges, and wrecks in 10-100 feet of water. They're aggressive feeders that'll hit live shrimp, crabs, or cut bait without much hesitation. What makes them special? That fight - they'll pull hard and try to get back into the structure once hooked. Plus, the meat is outstanding - firm, flaky, and sweet with that shellfish flavor from their crab-heavy diet. Pro tip: once you hook one, keep steady pressure and don't let them get back to the rocks, or you'll be retying your rig.
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