Inshore Fishing Adventures with Captain Si
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Expert Captain Si specializes in familyfriendly fishing tripsFixed hourly rates include all equipment and licensing providedInshore and nearshore options accommodate up to six anglers
Looking for a fishing trip that delivers on both action and comfort? Captain Si's inshore and nearshore charters out of Destin put you right where the fish are biting, without the rough seas that can turn a great day into a queasy one. This isn't your typical cattle-boat operation – we're talking about a personalized experience for up to four anglers who want to actually catch fish, not just hope for the best. Captain Si knows these waters like the back of his hand and has built his reputation on putting clients on fish while keeping everyone comfortable and having a blast.
Captain Si runs a tight ship when it comes to customer satisfaction, and that starts with finding the right balance between productive fishing spots and manageable conditions. The beauty of inshore and nearshore fishing around Destin is that you get access to some seriously good fishing without having to venture into the deep blue where swells can get dicey. We're talking about fishing in 10 to 40 feet of water where the action stays hot but the ride stays smooth. Your trip kicks off at 8 AM sharp, and at $200 per hour for up to four people, you're getting world-class guiding without the premium price tag. Need to bring along that fifth or sixth family member? No problem – just expect an additional fee for those extra rods in the water. Captain Si handles all the licensing paperwork, keeps the cooler packed with ice for your catch, and provides everything from bait and tackle to rods, reels, and safety gear. All you need to bring is sunscreen, snacks if you want them, and the enthusiasm to catch some fish.
The fishing approach varies based on what's biting and where Captain Si's been finding the most consistent action. Inshore, we're often working structure – think grass flats, oyster bars, and channel edges where predator fish set up to ambush baitfish. You'll be using medium-action spinning rods paired with quality reels that can handle anything from finicky pompano to bruising king mackerel. Live bait is often the ticket, with shrimp, pinfish, and cigar minnows being go-to options depending on the target species. When we move to nearshore waters, trolling becomes a major player in the game plan. Captain Si sets up a spread of spoons, diving plugs, and live bait that covers multiple depths and attracts everything from spanish mackerel to king-sized cobia. The beauty of this setup is that it keeps multiple lines in the water while covering ground to locate active fish. Don't worry if you've never trolled before – Captain Si walks everyone through the process and handles the technical stuff while you focus on fighting fish.
Cobia: These bronze bulldogs are the crown jewel of nearshore fishing, and Destin's waters serve up some real giants. Cobia typically run 20 to 50 pounds, with fish over 60 pounds showing up regularly during peak season from March through September. What makes cobia fishing so addictive is their curious nature – they'll often swim right up to the boat for a look, giving you that heart-pounding moment before the strike. They're also phenomenal table fare, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or blackening.
Spanish Mackerel: Fast, aggressive, and absolutely delicious, spanish mackerel are a customer favorite for good reason. These silver rockets typically weigh 1 to 4 pounds and provide non-stop action when you find a school. They're particularly active from spring through fall, and their willingness to hit small spoons and jigs makes them perfect for anglers of all skill levels. The key is their speed – when a spanish hits your lure, you'll know it immediately.
Florida Pompano: Pound for pound, pompano might be the best fighting fish in these waters, not to mention the best eating. These deep-bodied beauties average 1 to 3 pounds but fight like fish twice their size. They're typically found around sandy bottoms and grass flats, especially during their spring and fall migrations. Pompano are notorious for their picky eating habits, which makes landing one even more satisfying.
Bluefish: When the blues are running, get ready for some serious arm-burning action. These aggressive predators travel in schools and attack anything that moves, making them perfect for families with kids who want consistent hookups. Bluefish range from snapper-sized juveniles to 10-pound choppers that'll test your drag system. They're most active during cooler months and provide excellent sport on light tackle.
Grey Snapper (Mangrove Snapper): These smart, structure-loving fish are a true test of angling skill. Grey snapper are notorious for their light bites and tendency to steal bait, but that's what makes them so rewarding to catch. They typically run 1 to 5 pounds in these waters and are almost always found around structure like reefs, wrecks, and channel markers. Captain Si knows exactly where to find them and how to present baits that even the most cautious snappers can't resist.
Sheepshead: With their human-like teeth and convict stripes, sheepshead are one of the more unique catches you'll encounter. These structure specialists are masters at stealing bait, earning them the nickname "bait thieves." But when you do hook one, you're in for a solid fight and some of the best eating fish in the Gulf. Sheepshead are most active during cooler months and require precise bait presentation around pilings, reefs, and other hard structure.
King Mackerel: The kings are the apex predators of the nearshore waters, and tangling with one is an experience you won't forget. These toothy speedsters can reach
Captain Si's motorboat is perfectly set up for productive inshore fishing around Destin's calm waters. The boat comes equipped with a wireless trolling motor that lets you quietly approach fish without spooking them, plus a reliable fish finder to locate where they're hiding. GPS navigation keeps you on track to the best spots, while the onboard ice box ensures your catch stays fresh. With room for up to 4 anglers, this setup is ideal for families or small groups looking to target redfish, speckled trout, and other inshore species. Captain Si provides all the gear you need - rods, reels, bait, tackle, and safety equipment - plus he handles fishing licenses and brings a large cooler with ice. At $200 per hour starting from 8 AM, you're getting an experienced guide who knows exactly where to find fish in comfortable conditions that work for everyone on board.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBluefish are aggressive predators with razor-sharp teeth and attitudes to match. They typically run 3-15 pounds with blue-green backs fading to white bellies. You'll find schools roaming from the surf to 100+ feet offshore, especially around bait schools. Fall and spring are peak times when they're feeding heavily during migration. What guests love is the non-stop action - when you find a school, it's game on. They hit hard and fight dirty, plus they're decent eating when prepared fresh. We catch them trolling or casting to surface action. Here's the deal: always use wire leaders because they'll bite through anything else. When you see birds diving and water churning, that's a bluefish blitz - get there fast and hang on. Just watch your fingers when handling them.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are unique fish that often get mistaken for sharks due to their dark brown color and single dorsal fin. These solitary hunters typically run 30-50 pounds, though we've seen some push 80+ pounds. You'll find them around structure like reefs, wrecks, and oil rigs in 30-150 feet of water. Spring through fall are prime time when they're moving through our area. What makes cobia special is their incredible fight - they're strong, stubborn, and will test your drag. Plus, they're outstanding table fare with firm, white meat. My go-to trick is using bucktail jigs around structure, but here's the key: when you spot one, don't spook it. Cobia are curious and will often follow the boat, so be patient and make your presentation count.
Trachinotus CarolinusFlorida pompano are the gold standard of eating fish around here - silvery, deep-bodied fish with bright yellow fins. Most run 1-3 pounds and 10-14 inches, though we occasionally see bigger ones. They love sandy bottoms near Gulf beaches where they hunt shrimp and crabs. Summer and fall are your best bets when they're cruising the nearshore waters. What makes pompano special is that buttery, sweet meat - it's why restaurants charge top dollar for them. They're also scrappy fighters for their size. The key to catching them is using small hooks since they have tiny mouths. Live shrimp or small jigs work best. My local trick: look for them around structure where they can ambush prey, but don't overlook open sandy areas where they're rooting around for food.
Lutjanus GriseusGrey snapper, also called mangrove snapper, are smart fish with copper-red coloring and a distinctive dark stripe through the eye. Most run 1-3 pounds, though open water fish can hit 8-10 pounds. You'll find them around any structure - docks, reefs, mangroves, and wrecks in 10-80 feet. They're year-round residents but bite best during warmer months. What makes them popular is that excellent white, flaky meat and their challenging nature. They're notorious bait thieves with incredible eyesight, making them fun to target. We use live shrimp or small baits around structure. Here's my trick: once your bait hits bottom, bring it up just a foot or two. Don't move it much - these fish are ambush predators. When you feel that tap, wait a second before setting the hook or you'll pull it right out of their mouth.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing mackerel are the speed demons of the Gulf - sleek, silver torpedoes that average 15-30 pounds but can hit 50+ pounds. You'll find them in 40-150 feet trolling around structure, temperature breaks, and bait schools. Spring through fall are prime, especially when water temps hit 70+ degrees. What makes kings special is that blistering run when they hit - nothing quite like it. They're also solid eating despite the bad rap. We troll live bait or spoons around structure and current lines. Here's the key: always use wire leaders and rig with two hooks - one in the nose, one trailing. Kings often hit the back half of baits. When one hits, hang on tight because that first run will test your drag. Keep steady pressure but don't horse them - those sharp teeth can cut the line if they thrash near the boat.
Archosargus ProbatocephalusSheepshead are the convict fish of the Gulf - grey bodies with black prison stripes and human-like teeth. Most run 2-8 pounds and love munching barnacles off any structure they can find. Look for them around docks, bridges, and reefs year-round, with spring being prime time. What makes them unique is those teeth - they can crack crabs and steal bait like pros. The meat is sweet and flaky, excellent table fare. They're also challenging since they're notorious bait stealers. Fiddler crabs and shrimp work best on small hooks. My secret: get as close to structure as possible and keep your bait tight to the pilings. When you feel that subtle nibble, set the hook hard immediately. These fish will clean your hook faster than you can blink, so stay sharp and be ready.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are fast-moving silver bullets with yellowish spots along their sides. Most run 1-3 pounds and 12-20 inches, perfect for families since they're eager biters. You'll find schools near the surface around structure, grass flats, and open water from spring through fall. They're some of the fastest swimmers out there, hitting lures at blazing speed. Kids love them because they bite aggressively and fight hard for their size. They're also excellent eating - mild, flaky meat that grills up perfect. We typically troll small spoons or jig around structure. Here's a local tip: when you find one, there's usually a whole school nearby. Work the area quickly with multiple lines because once they move on, they're gone. Wire leaders are a must - those sharp teeth will cut through mono in a heartbeat.
Destin, FL