Book a Fishing Charter in Apalachicola, FL

Isn’t it a great experience to visit a town that feels like home the moment you set foot in it? Apalachicola, FL, is a town filled with warm and hospitable people, making visiting anglers feel welcome. 

The word Apalachicola was derived from the Apalachicola tribe. It is said to be a combination of the Hitchi word, apalachi and okli, which directly translates to people on the other side (of the river). However, in the original reference, Apalachicola means “land of the friendly people” which is more applicable as the people in this town are brimming with smiling faces and full of hospitality. This makes locals and visitors alike feel at home. 

Visiting Apalachicola would be much more than what you expect. This wonderful town is full of preserved and restored buildings. Likewise, the plaques appearing on nearly every block will give you a walk back to the memory lane. However, what completes your trip in this town is a visit to its abundant waters. With over 100 species to fish for any time of the year, Apalachicola is a must-visit for beginner anglers to professional ones.  

Apalachicola: Experience Multiple Fishing Opportunities

The town of Apalachicola is a small coastal town that is nestled on the mouth of the Apalachicola River, on the shore of the Apalachicola Bay. Its geographical location gives anglers multiple fishing opportunities like inshore, nearshore and offshore fishing, surf fishing, freshwater fishing, and shore fishing.

The Apalachicola bay provides one of the finest spots for inshore fishing especially during summer when there are more species of fish nestling in the water. Some of the most popular targets for year-round fishing are sheepshead, flounder and black drum which are found near the bridge piling. Redfish and sea trout are also some of the most popular catches in this area and you may spot them near the flats and bridges.

Experience nearshore fishing in Apalachicola and visit the Indian Pass. Some of the species caught here include grouper, snapper, kingfish, cobia and tarpon, which is the best catch in this area. The best area to fish is that with a tidal change as these species are found to nestle in those areas. 

If you are looking for deep sea fishing, go to the middle of the bay until you reach waters with depth between 80-100 feet. Experience fishing for red snapper during its open season in the months of June and July. One could also visit during the months of August to June and target some Gag grouper during its open season. One could also fish during the winters and land on some mangrove snapper, lane snapper, Key West grunts and black sea bass. 

One could also go shore fishing Apalachicola, and explore the mile-long shores along the town and catch some whiting, pompano and redfish. Other popular catch are the sheepshead, black drum, flounder, seatrout and sharks which can be found in areas near the bridges.

A Walk Through the Town of Apalachicola

1.Explore St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge

Established in 1968, this wildlife refuge was initially for waterfowl. However, today, it now provides protection for endangered species such as the red wolves. It also offers different activities like hunting, wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling, nature photography and kayaking.

2. Visit the Raney House Museum

The Raney House Museum is a beautiful old southern home that was built for the family of David Raney, who was a prosperous cotton trader in Apalachicola. You will witness the beauty from the structure, to the furniture, to the very details of the house that was meticulously planned. Visiting the museum will be a great place to tour with your family while knowing more of the house’s history.