Half-Day AM Fishing (Fall Special)
Fall fishing is hands down the best time to get on the water, and this half-day morning trip with On the Fly Outfitters proves it. When the temperatures drop and the water cools, fish get active and hungry – which means non-stop action for you. We're talking about prime time fishing in calm, protected creeks where you won't have to worry about rough seas or seasickness. Perfect for up to 2 guests, this trip targets some of the most sought-after inshore species: Redfish, Black Drum, Summer Flounder, and Sea Trout. Your captain handles all the gear, bait, and licensing, so you can focus on what matters – landing fish and making memories.
What to Expect on the Water
This isn't your typical offshore grind where you're battling big swells and praying your breakfast stays down. We fish the protected creeks and backwaters where the water stays calm and the fish stay active. The fall season brings cooler air temperatures, which means the water temperature drops just enough to kick these fish into feeding mode. You'll be fishing from a well-equipped boat with an experienced captain who knows exactly where these species like to hang out during the cooler months. The half-day format means you're on the water during prime morning hours when fish are most active, typically from dawn until mid-morning. Expect to move between several productive spots, using different techniques to target whatever's biting best that day.
Techniques and Tackle
Your captain comes loaded with everything you need – rods, reels, tackle, bait, and all the local knowledge that makes the difference between a good day and a great day. We use light to medium tackle that's perfect for these inshore species, giving you the fight you want without overpowering the fish. Depending on conditions and what's biting, you might be throwing live shrimp under popping corks, working soft plastics along grass lines, or dropping fresh cut bait near structure. The beauty of fishing these calm creeks is versatility – we can adjust techniques quickly based on what the fish want that day. Your guide will teach you the nuances of each technique, from proper bait presentation to reading water for the best spots. All fishing licenses are included, so you're completely covered and legal to fish these local waters.
Target Species You'll Want to Hook
Black Drum are the bulldogs of the inshore world, and fall brings some of the best Black Drum fishing of the year. These fish move into the shallows to feed on crabs and shellfish, making them perfect targets for bottom fishing with fresh cut bait. They're not the prettiest fish, but they make up for it with pure pulling power. A good Black Drum will test your drag and your patience – they're notorious for long, steady runs that'll make your arms burn. Most fish run between 3-8 pounds, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 15+ pound bull that'll give you a workout.
Summer Flounder, or fluke as locals call them, are the masters of camouflage and one of the best eating fish you'll find. Fall fishing means these flatfish are fattening up before winter, making them more aggressive and easier to target. They lie flat on sandy or muddy bottoms, waiting to ambush baitfish swimming overhead. The trick is bouncing soft plastics or live bait just off the bottom – too high and they won't see it, too low and it gets buried in the mud. When a flounder hits, it feels like you snagged bottom until suddenly that "bottom" starts swimming away. Most range from 14-20 inches, with keeper size varying by local regulations.
Sea Trout, particularly Speckled Trout, are the bread and butter of inshore fishing and absolute customer favorites. Fall brings some of the most consistent trout fishing as schools move into the creeks following baitfish. They're aggressive strikers that hit everything from live shrimp to artificial lures, making them perfect for anglers of all skill levels. The fight is fast and acrobatic – expect jumps, runs, and head shakes that'll keep you on your toes. Most trout run 12-16 inches with occasional fish pushing 20+ inches. They're also excellent table fare, with sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for the grill.
Redfish are the crown jewel of inshore fishing and the reason many anglers get addicted to these waters. Fall concentrations bring schools of reds into the shallow creeks where they feed aggressively on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. These copper-colored bruisers are known for their powerful runs and stubborn fighting style – they'll use every trick in the book to break your line or throw the hook. Most slot-sized reds run 18-27 inches and provide the perfect combination of fight and food value. The distinctive black spot near their tail makes them easy to identify, and their willingness to eat both live bait and artificials makes them a blast to target.
Time to Book Your Spot
Fall fishing doesn't last forever, and this half-day morning format fills up fast with both locals and visiting anglers who know when the fishing is best. With only 2 spots available per trip, you're getting personalized attention from your captain and plenty of room to fish comfortably. The calm creek fishing means this trip works for everyone – from kids to grandparents to anyone who gets queasy on rough water. All gear, bait, and licenses are included, making this a hassle-free way to experience some of the year's best fishing. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so make sure your dates work before booking. Don't wait too long – fall fishing season is prime time, and the best dates go fast.