Half Day Afternoon Fishing In Riviera Beach
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fourhour afternoon fishing trip targeting grouper and kingfishAll gear, licenses, and refreshments included in trip priceMaximum four guests with experienced captain and crew
Looking for a solid afternoon on the water without the early morning wake-up call? Papa Bear's Fishing Charters has you covered with this top-rated 4-hour fishing trip that kicks off at 1 p.m. We're talking about real offshore action in some of Florida's most productive waters, where grouper, kingfish, and snapper are just waiting to test your drag. This isn't some crowded party boat situation either – we keep it intimate with just 4 anglers max, so you'll get the attention and fishing spots you deserve.
When you roll up to the dock, everything's already dialed in. Captain's got the boat fueled, gear rigged, and coolers stocked with complimentary snacks and drinks. We're not wasting time with prep work when fish are biting. Within minutes of leaving the marina, you'll be heading to proven honey holes where the bottom structure holds serious fish. The afternoon bite can be absolutely lights-out, especially when the sun starts to drop and those predators get active. Whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who's never held a rod, our crew knows how to put you on fish and make sure you're having a blast doing it. All your tackle, rods, reels, and even fishing licenses are handled – you just need to show up ready to bend some rods.
We're fishing the offshore waters where bottom structure creates fish highways, and our approach changes based on what's biting that day. For grouper, we're talking heavy tackle and serious bottom rigs that can handle these bruisers trying to dive back into their holes. The kingfish action usually calls for live bait presentations or high-speed trolling with flashy spoons and ballyhoo. When the barracuda are around, they'll crush just about anything that moves fast enough. Our boat carries premium Penn and Shimano reels paired with medium to heavy action rods that can handle whatever decides to eat your bait. Live bait is where the magic happens though – goggle eyes run $100 per dozen and pilchards start at $30, but trust me, the difference between live and dead bait out here is night and day. The crew knows exactly how to rig everything from circle hooks for the snappers to wire leaders for those toothy 'cuda.
Red Snapper are the crown jewel of these waters, and when they're in season, few fish fight harder or taste better. These crimson beauties typically run 5-15 pounds in our area and love hanging around hard bottom and artificial reefs. They're smart fish with excellent eyesight, so our crew uses lighter leaders and smaller hooks to fool them. The bite is usually best during moving tides, and once you hook one, expect a serious scrap all the way to the boat. Peak season runs from June through July, but we see good numbers spring through fall.
Gag Grouper are the bullies of the reef, and landing one is like winning a tugof-war with a freight train. These guys can push 20-30 pounds easily and their first instinct when hooked is to dive straight back into whatever rock pile or wreck they call home. You've got maybe 3-4 seconds to turn their head before they cut you off on structure. They're most active during cooler months from October through April, and the bigger females are always the hardest fighters. The meat is absolutely phenomenal – firm, white, and perfect for the grill.
Northern Kingfish, or king mackerel as most folks call them, are speed demons that'll scream line off your reel like nothing else out here. These silver bullets average 10-30 pounds but can push 40-plus when conditions are right. They're primarily caught trolling or with live goggle eyes on the drift, and their razor-sharp teeth mean wire leaders are mandatory. Spring and fall migrations bring the best action, but we see kings year-round in South Florida waters. When one hits, you'll know it – the rod doubles over and line starts disappearing fast.
Barracuda might not win beauty contests, but they're absolute blast to catch and surprisingly good eating when prepared right. These toothy predators are lightning fast and incredibly aggressive, often hitting lures or baits with explosive strikes that'll catch you off guard. They're around year-round in our area and typically run 5-15 pounds, though bigger fish over 20 pounds show up regularly. Their razor teeth and powerful jaws make them exciting but dangerous to handle – our crew knows exactly how to safely unhook and release them.
Cobia are the wildcards of offshore fishing – you never know when one might show up, but when they do, it's game time. These brown sharks of the reef world are curious fish that often swim right up to the boat, giving you shots at sight-casting. They're powerful fighters that make long runs and can weigh anywhere from 20-50 pounds. Spring and early summer are prime time for cobia in our waters, especially around floating debris or structures. They're also outstanding table fare with firm, white meat that's perfect for grilling or blackening.
This world-class afternoon fishing trip delivers everything you want without the hassle – professional crew, top-shelf equipment, productive fishing grounds, and enough room to actually enjoy yourself. At just 4 anglers max, you're not fighting for rod space or competing with a dozen other people for the captain's attention. The 1 p.m. start time means you can sleep in and still get serious fishing action, plus the afternoon bite often heats up just as other boats are heading in. Remember to factor in that 20% tip for the crew – these guys work hard to put you on fish and make sure your trip is memorable. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just bend some rods, Papa Bear's has the local knowledge and equipment to make it happen. Book your spot
Step aboard this 1995 30-ft Pursuit Offshore Cruiser and get ready to chase grouper, kingfish, and snapper in Florida's productive waters. This well-equipped fishing machine comfortably handles up to four anglers with plenty of deck space to work those trophy fish. The hard top provides shade during those hot afternoon runs, while the enclosed head and galley keep everyone comfortable during the 4-hour trip. You'll find an icebox and refrigerator to keep your catch fresh and drinks cold, plus GPS and fish finder to locate the hottest fishing spots. With a comfortable bed for anyone needing a break between bites, this boat has everything covered. The captain provides all premium rods, reels, and tackle, so just bring your enthusiasm for some serious offshore action starting at 1 p.m. Perfect for both seasoned anglers and newcomers looking to experience what Riviera Beach's waters have to offer.
SphyraenidaeBarracuda are pure adrenaline on a fishing line. These torpedo-shaped predators can stretch 3-6 feet and are built for speed - they'll hit 35 mph when they want to. You'll spot them cruising shallow flats, around reefs, and near structure in 10-30 feet of water. They hunt by sight, so clear water days are money time. What gets anglers fired up is their explosive strike and wild jumps - they'll go airborne trying to throw your hook. They're also great eating when prepared right, with firm white meat. The trick with cuda is movement - they attack anything that looks like a fleeing baitfish. I like casting shiny spoons or tube lures and keeping them moving fast. Wire leaders are a must since their razor teeth will slice through regular line in a heartbeat. Work the edges of grass flats where they ambush prey.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are one of the most sought-after fish in our waters, and for good reason. These brown, shark-looking fish average around 30-40 pounds, but the big females can top 60+ pounds and 5 feet long. They're loners, cruising around reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 20-80 feet of water. Spring migration from March through May is prime time, especially during spawning season. What makes cobia special is their incredible fight and world-class table fare - firm, white meat that rivals any fish. They're curious too, often swimming right up to the boat. The best approach is sight fishing when you spot their dark shape near the surface. My favorite technique is pitching a bucktail jig or live bait right in front of their nose. They're not shy about eating, but be ready for a serious battle once hooked.
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag grouper are tough customers that'll test your gear and your patience. Most run 20 inches, but the big males can stretch past 4 feet and 50+ pounds. They love hanging around rocky bottoms, reefs, and wrecks in 60-200 feet of water. Younger fish stay closer to shore, but the trophies are out deep. Spring and summer are prime time when they're active and feeding hard. What guests love about gags is the brutal fight - they'll try to drag your bait straight back to their cave the second they grab it. The meat is fantastic too, white and firm. Here's the key: soon as you feel that thump, lock your reel and don't let them run. Keep steady pressure and work them up quick. Live pinfish and mullet are money baits, but fresh squid chunks work well too.
Menticirrhus SaxatilisNorthern kingfish might be small, but they're scrappy little fighters that'll surprise you. These bottom feeders typically run 10-14 inches and weigh up to a pound and a half. You'll find them cruising sandy and rocky bottoms in shallow water, especially during late summer when they're most active near shore. They're perfect for light tackle fishing - great for kids and beginners who want steady action. What makes them fun is their speed and attitude; they'll put up a good fight despite their size. The white meat is sweet and flaky too. Since they're bottom feeders with that little chin barbel, they hunt by feel and smell. My go-to trick is using small pieces of fresh clam or bloodworm on a light rig. Keep your bait right on the bottom and be patient - they'll find it.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the prize catch most anglers dream about. These bottom dwellers typically run 1-2 feet and 5-10 pounds, though the big ones can hit 35+ pounds. They hang around structure in 30-200 feet of water - reefs, wrecks, ledges, anywhere they can ambush prey. Spring through fall gives you the best shots at them. What makes snapper special? They fight like hell, diving straight for cover the moment they feel the hook. Plus, there's nothing better on the dinner table - that sweet, flaky white meat is restaurant quality. Here's a pro tip: once you hook one, lock that reel down tight and keep your rod tip low. Don't give them an inch or they'll cut your line on the nearest rock. Fresh squid and cigar minnows work great, but live pinfish will get you the monsters.
West Palm Beach