Next AvailableNov 21
Book with Phil Cox
Phil's Charter Service
Identity Verified Port St. Joe FL
Phil Cox, Captain at Phil's Charter Service
Welcome to Phil’s Charter Service, led by Captain Phil Cox, with over 1,000 successful trips on St. Joseph Bay and surrounding waters. Phil ensures safe and enjoyable fishing experiences for families, friends, and anglers of all skill levels. St. Joe Bay offers a diverse range of fish species, including speckled sea trout, red drum, black drum, flounder, sheepshead, Spanish mackerel, pompano, and even sharks.
Phil provides everything needed for the trip, from experience and equipment to bait and licenses. Guests only need to bring sunscreen, snacks, and drinks. Fish cleaning services are included for those who wish to take home their catch. Raised on a beef cattle farm near Huntington, WV, Phil developed a passion for fishing on the Ohio River. After moving to Port St. Joe in 2010, he became a licensed captain in 2012 and transitioned into his dream career as a full-time fishing guide.
Over the years, Captain Phil has hosted numerous family outings, where children catch their first big fish, and multi-generational trips, where grandparents take their loved ones on memorable fishing adventures. Phil also leads fun buddy trips, where friends reunite while fishing for dinner. Phil operates a 23-foot Ranger Bay boat, powered by a 300 HP Suzuki engine, equipped with Garmin GPS, fishfinder, Hydrowave fish attractor, powerpole, and a 36-volt Minn Kota Ulterra trolling motor. It also includes all necessary Coast Guard safety equipment for a secure and smooth trip.
Guests enjoy fishing on calm waters, guided by Captain Phil’s expert knowledge of the area. The boat’s setup ensures a quiet, effective approach to target fish, with a large live bait tank keeping bait fresh for the day’s catch. Captain Phil specializes in light spinning tackle and customizes each trip with either artificial lures or live bait, based on guest preferences.
All trips include a fishing license and the cleaning of the catch at no extra charge. Scenic cruises and snorkeling trips are also available, with guests bringing their own snorkeling gear. Experience the beauty of Florida's Panhandle waters with Phil’s Charter Service and create unforgettable memories.
Ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure on the serene waters of St. Joe Bay? With over 1,000 successful trips, Captain Phil Cox guarantees an amazing day, whether you're after speckled trout, red drum, or sharks. Don't miss out on the perfect day of fishing, scenic cruises, or snorkeling!
Upcoming Availability
Trips Available with Phil's Charter Service
Water Sports
Starting At $400
4 HR Private Scalloping Adventure
Water Sports: Snorkeling
Fishing Boat:
Phil's Charter Service • 23' Ranger 2300 Bay • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Snorkel for scallops in the clear, shallow waters of St. Joe Bay! This seasonal adventure feels like an underwater Easter egg hunt as you explore for scallops. All you need to bring is your own snorkeling gear, and you're set for a fun and memorable experience. Perfect for families or friends looking to try something unique. Book now to reserve your spot and check availability!
Fishing
Starting At $500
Half Day Inshore Private Fishing Trip
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Phil's Charter Service • 23' Ranger 2300 Bay • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Enjoy a thrilling 4-hour inshore fishing adventure starting at 8AM and 1:00 PM. Whether you prefer using artificial lures or live bait, this trip offers the best of both worlds for targeting local species. Perfect for anglers of all skill levels, you’ll experience the excitement of fishing in the calm waters of St. Joe Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway. Book now for an unforgettable afternoon of fishing!
Fishing
Starting At $800
Whole Day Private Fishing Adventure
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Phil's Charter Service • 23' Ranger 2300 Bay • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Enjoy a thrilling full-day inshore fishing adventure, perfect for anglers of all levels! Starting at 8:00 AM, this trip combines the best of both worlds with the option of using artificial lures or live bait. You’ll target a variety of species in the calm, pristine waters of St. Joe Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway. From catching redfish to speckled trout, you’ll experience the excitement of a full day on the water, with ample time to fish, relax, and make unforgettable memories. Book now for an action-packed, full-day fishing adventure!
Fishing Territory
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Ratings & Reviews Summary
November 21, 2024
Captain Phil is an incredibly skilled and experienced guide who knows how to find fish, even in challenging conditions. We were able to limit out on Redfish, though it took several stops to land fish within the legal size limit. At the cleaning station, Captain Phil’s expertise was clear—while other captains didn’t have any Redfish, everyone in our group had keeper-sized fish thanks to his efforts. We’ll definitely be booking with Captain Phil again for our next trip. Thanks for an amazing experience!
November 21, 2024
While on vacation, our family decided to try a fishing trip, and we're so glad we did! Captain Phil was honest about the hot weather affecting the fishing conditions, even offering to reschedule if we preferred. We chose to go ahead, and it was an absolute blast! Everyone caught fish, and Captain Phil went above and beyond—he baited hooks, casted, removed fish, and kept the boat in the perfect spots. Despite the heat, Phil still found us fish. Not every catch was a keeper, but every moment was enjoyable. We’ll definitely be booking with Captain Phil again!
November 21, 2024
Captain Phil was incredibly accommodating and an excellent guide during our morning fishing trip. He was especially great with my two grandsons, helping them catch a bunch of nice fish. I highly recommend Captain Phil to anyone looking to catch fish and have an unforgettable time!
November 21, 2024
We booked an 8-hour inshore fishing trip with Captain Phil, and it was an amazing experience. Although the wind and chop were strong at first, Phil offered us the option of a shorter, prorated trip if needed. He was very considerate of our comfort and made the experience enjoyable for all of us, especially as first-time fishermen. We learned a lot while fishing and caught a variety of species, even venturing into the Intracoastal Waterway to avoid the rough bay conditions. It turned out to be a fantastic 8-hour trip. Phil truly loves what he does, and it shows in his expertise. We’ll definitely choose his services again!
November 21, 2024
Just finished a trip with Captain Phil, and after having experience with many other captains, I can honestly say he is the best I've worked with. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable, but his equipment is also well-maintained. What sets him apart is his ability to network with other guides to put you on the fish. I left the trip feeling like I had spent the day fishing with an old friend. Highly recommended—Captain Phil earns a solid 5 stars!
November 21, 2024
Capt. Phil put my 11YO son and I on some fish even with rain, wind and two water spouts. We caught trout, sharks and catfish. Very knowledgeable Capt and helpful to my son. I highly recommend!
