Peace River Fishing with Straw Hats Charters
Private Trip
River Fishing
Guided river fishing on Peace River with Captain CodyAll fishing equipment provided for up to four guestsTarget personal best catches in productive fishing waters
When you're looking for a top-rated river fishing experience that delivers real results, Captain Cody and the Peace River are a winning combination. This isn't your typical afternoon on the water – we're talking about a productive day targeting some of Florida's most sought-after species. The Peace River has earned its reputation as a customer favorite for good reason, and with Capt. Cody's local knowledge backing you up, you're set for the kind of day that gets talked about back at the dock.
The Peace River runs differently than most Florida waters, and that's exactly what makes it special for serious anglers. You'll be fishing with up to three other guests, which keeps the boat from getting crowded while still letting you share the excitement when someone hooks up. Capt. Cody handles all the gear, so you don't need to worry about bringing rods, reels, or tackle – he's got the right setup for what's biting. The river's brackish mix creates perfect conditions for both cobia and tarpon, and these fish use the river as a highway between feeding areas. You'll cover productive water throughout the day, from deeper bends where big fish cruise to shallow flats where you can sight-fish when conditions are right. The Peace River's current keeps bait moving naturally, which means fish stay active and your chances of connecting stay high all day long.
Fishing the Peace River means adapting to what the water gives you, and Capt. Cody knows how to read these conditions better than anyone. You'll likely start with live bait presentations – mullet, pinfish, and crabs work great here – drifted along structure and drop-offs where fish ambush prey. When cobia are moving through, you'll switch to sight-fishing mode, scanning the surface for those dark shadows cruising just below. Tarpon fishing often means positioning near creek mouths and deeper holes, using the current to your advantage. The river's structure includes everything from oyster bars to deeper channels, and each spot fishes differently depending on the tide. Capt. Cody brings rods rigged for different situations – heavy tackle for tarpon that want to jump and run, and medium-heavy setups for cobia that prefer to dive deep and stay down. You'll learn to work different depths and adjust your technique as conditions change throughout the day.
Cobia are one of those fish that make the Peace River special. These brown sharks, as some folks call them, cruise the river looking like small sharks until they turn and show that distinctive flat head and powerful build. Spring through fall brings the best cobia action, with fish ranging from 20 to 50 pounds being common catches. What makes cobia so exciting is their curious nature – they'll often swim right up to the boat to investigate, giving you a perfect shot at a sight-cast. Once hooked, they dive deep and stay strong throughout the fight, using their broad body to pull hard against the current. Cobia also happen to be excellent table fare, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or blackening.
Tarpon turn the Peace River into world-class fishing territory during their seasonal runs. These silver kings use the river as a travel route and feeding area, particularly during spring and summer months. Peace River tarpon typically range from 60 to 150 pounds, with some real giants pushing even bigger numbers. What every angler remembers about tarpon is that first jump – there's nothing quite like watching 100 pounds of silver fish launch itself completely out of the water, rattling its gills and shaking its head. Tarpon are pure adrenaline from hookup to release, often jumping multiple times and making long, powerful runs that test both your tackle and your endurance. The river's structure gives tarpon plenty of places to hide and ambush bait, and Capt. Cody knows exactly where to position for the best shots at these legendary fish.
The Peace River delivers the kind of fishing that keeps anglers coming back season after season, and with Capt. Cody providing both the local knowledge and quality gear, you're looking at a day that's built for success. Whether you're hoping to sight-cast to cruising cobia or feel the power of a jumping tarpon, this renowned fishery offers shots at personal best fish in a setting that's purely Florida. The small group size means personalized attention and better fishing for everyone on board, while the river's diverse structure keeps things interesting all day long. Book your trip with Straw Hats Fishing Charters and get ready to experience why the Peace River has earned its place as one of the best fishing destinations in the state.
This well-equipped motorboat is built for serious anglers tackling the Peace River's productive waters. With room for up to 4 guests, you'll have plenty of space to cast lines and land your catch without crowding. The onboard fish finder takes the guesswork out of locating schools, while GPS navigation keeps you on course to the hottest spots. Captain Cody knows these waters like the back of his hand and comes loaded with all the tackle you'll need. Between strikes, enjoy tunes from the multimedia system or grab a cold drink from the ice box. The reliable engine gets you to prime fishing locations quickly, so you spend more time with lines in the water instead of searching. Perfect for both seasoned fishermen and newcomers looking to hook their personal best on one of the region's most rewarding rivers.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are dark brown bruisers that average 6 feet and 100 pounds - they're often mistaken for sharks until you see that single dorsal fin. These solitary hunters prefer structures like reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-70 feet of water, though they'll cruise shallower estuaries too. Spring through summer is prime time when they're spawning and migrating. What makes cobia special is their aggressive fight and premium table fare - firm, white meat that rivals any fish you'll eat. They hit bucktail jigs hard, especially around current breaks near structure. Pro tip: when sight fishing, cast well ahead of a cruising cobia and work your jig slowly - they're curious but spook easily if you splash it right on their head.
Megalops AtlanticusTarpon are the silver kings of inshore fishing, typically running 4-6 feet and 80-100 pounds in our waters. These prehistoric fish love shallow coastal areas, estuaries, and brackish rivers where they can gulp air at the surface. Late spring through summer is peak season, especially around new and full moons when they're most active. What draws anglers is their explosive jumps - they can launch 10 feet out of the water trying to throw your hook. Most folks practice catch and release since they're bony and tough eating. Live shrimp or pinfish work great, but here's the key: when one jumps, bow to the fish by dropping your rod tip toward the water. It reduces tension and keeps them buttoned up during those wild aerial shows.
Port Charlotte, FL