Port Orange Nearshore & Offshore Fishing Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Six-hour charter targets tarpon, cobia, and grouper offshoreCaptain Daniel guides trips from nearshore reefs to deeper watersExtended half-day format allows multiple fishing techniques and locations
Captain Daniel Levesque knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on fish during this extended 6-hour charter out of Port Orange. This isn't your typical half-day trip – you're getting the extra time needed to really work the productive spots along Florida's Atlantic coast. Whether we're hitting the inlet structure, working nearshore reefs, or making the run to deeper offshore grounds, you'll have plenty of opportunities to bend the rod on some serious gamefish. With room for up to 6 anglers, this top-rated charter gives your group the flexibility to target multiple species and explore different techniques throughout the day.
This extended half-day format is a customer favorite because it gives you the best of both worlds – nearshore action and offshore opportunities without committing to a full day. Captain Daniel tailors each trip based on current conditions, seasonal patterns, and what's biting. You might start the morning working live bait around the inlet jetties for tarpon and snook, then make a move to nearshore reefs for cobia and grouper before finishing the day trolling for pelagics. The variety keeps things interesting, and the extended timeframe means we're not rushed to get back to the dock. You'll fish productive structure like wrecks, reefs, and ledges that hold fish year-round, plus seasonal hotspots that light up when conditions are right. The captain provides all the tackle and knows exactly where to position the boat for the best shot at hookups.
This charter covers the full spectrum of fishing techniques, so you'll learn something new whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started. Bottom fishing with cut bait and live bait is deadly around structure for grouper, amberjack, and snapper. We'll also do plenty of live bait fishing – nothing beats a frisky sardine or pilchard when cobia are cruising the reefs or tarpon are rolling in the inlet. Trolling comes into play when we're covering water to locate schools of Spanish mackerel or when conditions favor running and gunning for pelagics. Drift fishing lets us work larger areas efficiently, especially when targeting flounder over sandy bottom or working the edges of reefs. Captain Daniel will put you on the technique that's working best for the conditions, but he's always willing to mix it up if you want to try something different. All rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included, so you just need to bring your fishing license and be ready to fish.
Barracuda are absolute rockets when they hit, and these waters hold some bruiser cuda that'll test your drag system. They're aggressive predators that strike hard and fast, often jumping multiple times during the fight. You'll find them around structure year-round, but they're most active during warmer months. What makes barracuda so exciting is their explosive strikes – one second you're trolling or drifting, the next your reel is screaming as a 4-foot torpedo takes off with your bait. They're also excellent table fare when prepared properly, despite what some people think.
Greater Amberjack are the bulldogs of the reef, and Port Orange's offshore structure holds some serious fish that can push 50+ pounds. These powerful fighters will test every knot and connection on your tackle as they try to get back to their rocky homes. Peak season runs from fall through early spring when they're most aggressive and feeding heavily. Amberjack fights are all about endurance – they'll make long, steady runs and then try to wrap you around whatever structure they can find. Landing a big AJ is a real accomplishment that'll leave your arms burning, but the satisfaction of winning that tug-of-war makes it all worthwhile.
Crevalle Jack might not win beauty contests, but they're pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting fish in these waters. These silver bulldogs show up in schools around structure and in nearshore waters, especially during spring and fall migrations. A 10-pound jack fights like a fish twice its size, making blistering runs and using its broad sides to leverage against your drag. They're perfect for getting kids or new anglers hooked on fishing because they're aggressive biters and guaranteed to put a bend in the rod. You'll often find them mixed in with other species around reefs and wrecks.
Cobia are one of the most sought-after species in these waters, and for good reason. These brown sharks, as some locals call them, are curious fish that often cruise near the surface around structure, making them exciting targets for sight fishing. Peak season runs from March through June when they're migrating along the coast. What makes cobia special is their combination of size, fight, and table quality – they commonly reach 20-40 pounds, fight hard with powerful runs, and are absolutely delicious on the dinner table. They're also smart fish that require some finesse, making them a favorite target for experienced anglers who appreciate the challenge.
Red Snapper are the crown jewel of bottom fishing, and when the season opens, these reefs come alive with some of the best snapper action on the Atlantic coast. These beautiful fish are both challenging to catch and exceptional table fare, making them a world-class target species. They're structure-oriented fish that require precise boat positioning and quality bait presentation to consistently hook up. Red snapper have excellent eyesight and can be picky about bait, but when you find an active school, the action can be fast and furious. Their distinctive red coloration and excellent eating quality make them a trending target that keeps anglers coming back for more.
This extended half-day format gives you the time needed to really experience what Port Orange fishing is all about. Captain Daniel's local knowledge combined with quality tackle and proven techniques puts you in the best position for success. Whether you're after a trophy tarpon, a cooler full of snapper, or just want to experience the variety
Captain Daniel's 31' Cape Horn sportfisher is built for serious offshore action along Florida's Atlantic coast. Twin 350HP Mercury engines push this 2020 beauty up to 45 knots, getting you to productive fishing grounds fast. The boat handles rough seas with confidence while keeping up to 6 anglers comfortable during those extended 6-hour charters targeting tarpon, cobia, and grouper. Fish finder and GPS help locate structure and schools, while the radar keeps you safe in changing conditions. The wireless trolling motor lets you work jetties and reefs quietly without spooking fish. Between battles with big fish, stay refreshed with the onboard icebox and multimedia system. Whether you're bottom fishing wrecks, live bait fishing for tarpon, or trolling for cobia, this Cape Horn delivers the performance and features serious anglers expect.
SphyraenidaeBarracuda are torpedo-shaped predators that can reach up to 6 feet, though most we catch are 2-3 feet. These aggressive fish hang around nearshore reefs, wrecks, and jetties in 10-60 feet of water. They're visual hunters attracted to shiny lures and fast-moving bait. Spring through fall gives the best action when water temps are up. Guests love their explosive strikes and blistering runs - they'll test your drag for sure. The meat's decent eating when prepared right. Pro tip: use a wire leader and keep your lure moving fast. They hunt by sight, so bright spoons and tube lures work great. Once hooked, they'll jump and thrash, so keep steady pressure and watch those razor teeth when landing them.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are brown, shark-looking fish that average 20-50 pounds and make fantastic table fare. These curious fish cruise alone around buoys, wrecks, and structure in 20-100 feet of water. Spring migration from March to May is peak season when they move through our area. What sets them apart is their willingness to approach the boat - you can often sight-cast to them. They're aggressive feeders and excellent eating with firm, white meat. The fight is strong but manageable. Best technique is sight fishing with bucktail jigs or live bait. When you spot one, don't cast right at it - lead them by a few feet and work the bait naturally. They're curious, so be patient.
Caranx HipposCrevalle Jack are the bulldogs of the flats - most run 3-8 pounds but they fight like fish twice their size. You'll find them in shallow bays, around structure, and pushing bait in 5-50 feet of water. They school up and create surface chaos when feeding. Spring through fall offers steady action, especially when mullet are running. Anglers love their aggressive strikes and bulldogging fights that'll burn your arms out. They're not great table fare but fantastic sport fish. Look for diving birds - that's where the jacks are pushing bait to the surface. Cast fast-moving spoons or jigs past the school and reel fast. They love the chase, so don't slow down your retrieve.
Seriola dumeriliGreater Amberjack are serious fighters that average 15-40 pounds, though big ones can hit 60+. These deep-bodied fish live around offshore wrecks, reefs, and structure in 60-200 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime time when they're most active. What makes them special is their raw power - they'll dive straight for the bottom and test every inch of your tackle. The meat's excellent eating, firm and white. You'll find them year-round, but April through June gives the best shot at trophy fish. My go-to trick is dropping live bait or heavy jigs right to the bottom near structure, then holding on tight. Use at least 50-pound tackle because they don't give up easy.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed Snapper are bottom dwellers that live around hard structure in 60-200 feet of water. Most run 2-10 pounds, but bigger ones over 20 pounds show up regularly. These deep-water fighters are prized for their excellent table fare - sweet, flaky white meat that's hard to beat. Summer months offer the best action when they're most active. They'll give you a solid fight and try to get back to structure to break you off. The key is using heavy tackle with circle hooks and fresh bait like squid or cigar minnows. Drop your bait to the bottom near reefs or wrecks. When you feel that tap-tap bite, don't jerk - let the circle hook do its job and reel steady.
Port Orange, FL