St. Augustine Inshore Fishing Charters
St. Augustine Inshore Fishing Charters
Best Inshore Fishing Charters in St. Augustine
Best Inshore Fishing Charters in St. Augustine
Inshore Fishing in St. Augustine
Inshore Fishing in St. Augustine
Famous as the oldest city in the US and rich with both history and wildlife, St. Augustine, Florida is a true Mecca for fishermen looking to experience the best that Northeast Florida has to offer in a serene and culturally significant setting. These waters are the perfect playground enabling a variety of different fishing types and techniques, but for many passionate anglers, St. Augustine inshore fishing tops the list!
What to Catch
Lying on the Intracoastal Waterway, St. Augustine waters are exploding with A-list inshore species. These backwaters, flats, bays, rivers, and salt marshes are home to Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Tarpon, Cobia, Black Drum, Jacks, Snook, a variety of Sharks, Tripletail, King and Spanish Mackerel, Sheepshead, Bluefish, Ladyfish, and the list keeps on impressing. St. Augustine charter boats can take you after the famous Northeast Florida Slam (catching Reds, Flounder, and Trout during the same day) year round.
Redfish can be abundantly found in backcountry waters and flats, and they average 3–10 pounds. Trout offers some amazing top-water action, and the biggest specimens are caught during their spawning season. Flounder average 2–6 pounds, but catching much larger "doormats" is not uncommon. When it comes to the Silver King, it's possible to catch 10–150 lb specimens just off the coast, outside the inlets, and in backcountry waters. Cobia are usually 15–50 pounds, while Jack Crevalle average 25 pounds.
Where to Go
What are the best St. Augustine fishing spots? Most of the species mentioned above can be caught in the inshore bays, shallow flats, creeks, saltwater marshes and rivers, and just off the inlets. St. Augustine boat fishing is certainly the most popular among anglers looking for the most productive experience, but surf and pier fishing can also be fun for beginners. Now let's focus on some of the hottest of spots!
Matanzas, Tolomato, and Guana Rivers
Saint Augustine and Matanzas inlets connect these rich saltwater estuaries to the Atlantic, and their flats, creeks, and marches are known for producing an incredible number and variety of fish. Matanzas, Tolomato, and Guana are tidal rivers influenced by Matanzas and Saint Augustine inlets supplying them with saltwater. Those waters mix with fresh waters from the land, making up a brackish mixture in which multiple species can flourish.
This fishery is abundant in Trout, Flounder, Redfish, Black Drum, Snook, Sheepshead, and much more. Even Sharks can be caught in these fertile waters filled with shrimp, oysters, and crabs. Oysters are an important part of the ecosystem – the oyster beds provide structure for fish and also filter the water. The best thing about these coastal rivers is that most tourists are not familiar with them, so you'll also have a lack of fishing pressure on your side when exploring them. Guana Tolomato Matanzas Estuarine Research Reserve is an excellent fishing spot located just 8 miles from Vilano Beach and offers a unique opportunity to do saltwater fishing on the south side of the dam and go freshwater fishing on the northern side.
Salt Run
Another great spot is Salt Run inlet at the northern side of Anastasia Island. These protected waters are especially popular among fly fishermen looking to land a Redfish of a lifetime. You can also have a productive day here fishing for Flounder, Trout, and other species. Anastasia State Park located nearby boasts boat ramps and various other recreational resources. This spot is also known as a go-to location for kayak fishing.
St. Johns River
If you're looking for some rod-bending freshwater action, the waters of St. Augustine can provide for that as well. St. Johns River attracts numerous freshwater enthusiasts aiming to land Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Black Crappie. The upper part of the river offers saltwater opportunities as well – this area contains brackish water brought by the tides, which means all-you-can catch Redfish, Trout, and Flounder. Inshore fishing doesn't get better and more versatile than this!
How to Fish
- Sight fishing is a popular technique in the area – whether sight fishing for Redfish on the flats, targeting Black Drum, Sheepshead, and Jacks, or sight fishing for Cobia, Tarpon, and Sharks just off the beach. You can use both flies or artificials, depending on the conditions. Sight fishing for Redfish on Guana Lake can be especially productive.
- If you're a fan of fly fishing, these waters will provide for that as well. You can fly fish for schools of Bluefish, Jacks, and Ladyfish during summer or blind cast for Trout. Sight fishing for smaller schools of Trout near the surface can also be very fun. You can sight fish for various other species off the beach during spring/summer, including Cobia, Tarpon, Tripletail, Jacks, and more. Sight fishing for Redfish (especially during the flood tide) and Sharks on the fly is a favorite of many local captains.
- Flood tide fishing is an absolute must – don't miss the chance to try this style of fishing unique to the area. When tides go over 5 feet during late spring and early fall, they push the water on the grass flats. The phenomenon occurs around new and full moon cycles and when there's more wind from hurricanes and storms. The tides bring Redfish, Sheepshead, and others to the otherwise dry areas, and it's possible to spot them from more than 100 feet away. You can go after them on foot or by poling, just make sure your casts are precise and 20–50 feet away.
- St. Augustine provides some of the best canoe and kayak fishing in the area. These shallow waters are perfect for some relaxing and noise-free fishing using spinning gear and artificials.
When to Go
St. Augustine offers incredible inshore fishing year round, with species such as Trout, Flounder, and Redfish available every day of the year. Some of the biggest Trout can be caught during their spawning season in spring and fall, which is also the prime time for catching huge Flounder. Tarpon are available from June–September and prime time for Cobia is from March–June. Sharking action is the hottest during summer, while Black Drum is peaking during colder months. If you're after Jack Crevalle, focus on the spring–fall season. If you want to land huge Jacks, you can find them in schools off the beaches during summer months.
Whether you're looking to experience flood tide fishing for the first time, land that legendary Northeast Florida Slam, sight fish for a variety of species, or just spend some unforgettable time on the water with your family and friends, the inshore waters of St. Augustine will give you all of that, and even more.
St. Augustine
4.5
/
5
Based on 26,578 reviews by FishingBooker anglers
What anglers said about Inshore Fishing in St. Augustine
What anglers said about Inshore Fishing in St. Augustine
If you want to catch fish, Capt Al and Ethan are the way to go! They work hard and know where to go!
5.0
/
5
If you want to catch fish, Capt Al and Ethan are the way to go! They work hard and know where to go!
Eric C.
Bottom fishing for flounder proved to be productive! Snagged some decent size blues in the process as well
5.0
/
5
Bottom fishing for flounder proved to be productive! Snagged some decent size blues in the process as well
Eric S.
Bradleyville, MO
The inshore trip was good fishing and also got to see the attractions from a different viewpoint
5.0
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5
The inshore trip was good fishing and also got to see the attractions from a different viewpoint
Brandon H.
Hooper, UT
From our understanding fish are still out a ways in April but come closer once it warms up. Wind in April sometimes makes it hard to get out. We got lucky and had a very calm day!
5.0
/
5
From our understanding fish are still out a ways in April but come closer once it warms up. Wind in April sometimes makes it hard to get out. We got lucky and had a very calm day!
Stanley C.
Camillus, NY
Very good, some of the fish were back but there were a few species that will show up later.
I had a blast!!!
4.7
/
5
Very good, some of the fish were back but there were a few species that will show up later.
I had a blast!!!
Randy H.
New Kent, VA
Snappers cannot be taken, they are catch and release, This surprised me. I would recommend an all day trip or at least a 6 hr day so you can get out to the sportfish.
5.0
/
5
Snappers cannot be taken, they are catch and release, This surprised me. I would recommend an all day trip or at least a 6 hr day so you can get out to the sportfish.
CHRISTOPHER S.
Johns Creek, GA
Be open to what the captain has planned for you. They are the professionals.
5.0
/
5
Be open to what the captain has planned for you. They are the professionals.
Josh D.
Howard City, MI
YES, but I can only reccommend that you Book with Captain Chris because that was our only experience...and it was AWESOME....this was our first visit to St. Augustine...we booked with Captain Chris based on reviews alone....reviews were on the mark....he was great
5.0
/
5
YES, but I can only reccommend that you Book with Captain Chris because that was our only experience...and it was AWESOME....this was our first visit to St. Augustine...we booked with Captain Chris based on reviews alone....reviews were on the mark....he was great
Steven R.
Clanton, AL
I'd recommend a shorter trip for first time charter fishing. This way you can see how people react to the motion of the water because its certainly a unique feeling that can get people motion sickness. If you do well, then a longer trip is in your future as ate bigger fish!
5.0
/
5
I'd recommend a shorter trip for first time charter fishing. This way you can see how people react to the motion of the water because its certainly a unique feeling that can get people motion sickness. If you do well, then a longer trip is in your future as ate bigger fish!
Scott M.
Mount Plymouth, FL
It was a bit cold so we didn't have luck in a few of the places. The wind on the river was really cold but once the sun came out it was much better.
5.0
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5
It was a bit cold so we didn't have luck in a few of the places. The wind on the river was really cold but once the sun came out it was much better.
Jordan M.
Jacksonville, FL
Definitely book with captain Guy. He did a fabulous job we were thrilled with the experience and with all the fish caught. We will definitely be booking with him again.
5.0
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5
Definitely book with captain Guy. He did a fabulous job we were thrilled with the experience and with all the fish caught. We will definitely be booking with him again.
Cindy B.
Griffin, GA
Yes, get a good guide and it will be a great experience. I have also been catching smaller fish from the shore.
5.0
/
5
Yes, get a good guide and it will be a great experience. I have also been catching smaller fish from the shore.
Gregory G.
Duluth, GA
Take a Red Snapper trip. Only once a year for 3 days for Atlantic Season, but weโll worth the trip.
5.0
/
5
Take a Red Snapper trip. Only once a year for 3 days for Atlantic Season, but weโll worth the trip.
Timothy B.
Jacksonville, FL
Stay up to date on the weather, book as early as possible in the morning, as the days can be very warm there. Also, call the captain if possible and review what you should bring with you, such as food, snacks, etc.
Be clear as to what is included for the price of the charter. our captain was very good at this, so there was no misunderstanding on the matter.
5.0
/
5
Stay up to date on the weather, book as early as possible in the morning, as the days can be very warm there. Also, call the captain if possible and review what you should bring with you, such as food, snacks, etc.
Be clear as to what is included for the price of the charter. our captain was very good at this, so there was no misunderstanding on the matter.
Thomas G.
United States
Fishing was good once we got on them. we kept Spanish Mackeral but also caught blue and black drum. It was too rough to venture near shore outside the harbor so we worked the channels and the bridges
5.0
/
5
Fishing was good once we got on them. we kept Spanish Mackeral but also caught blue and black drum. It was too rough to venture near shore outside the harbor so we worked the channels and the bridges
Stan O.
Leesburg, GA
Highly recommend Mitch and his charter service! Best experience of our lives!
5.0
/
5
Highly recommend Mitch and his charter service! Best experience of our lives!
James W.
Aylett, VA
I would but you have to keep an eye on the cooler day, and would do a inter coastal , when the nigh temp
don't drop too much and make the fishing harder because of the colder water,
and check out reports on the web and talk with Capt. Guy Spear he would be the best in this area
Capt. Guy would give you a great shot at fishing for the first time in St. Augustine
5.0
/
5
I would but you have to keep an eye on the cooler day, and would do a inter coastal , when the nigh temp
don't drop too much and make the fishing harder because of the colder water,
and check out reports on the web and talk with Capt. Guy Spear he would be the best in this area
Capt. Guy would give you a great shot at fishing for the first time in St. Augustine
Charles F.
Palm Coast, Florida
Fish in the morning, when possible. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and dangerous.
4.7
/
5
Fish in the morning, when possible. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and dangerous.
Brian D.
Jacksonville, FL
We did not catch any keepers. Capt. Zach made the best of things to make it a pleasurable adventure.
5.0
/
5
We did not catch any keepers. Capt. Zach made the best of things to make it a pleasurable adventure.
Lee M.
Saint Augustine, FL
October may not be the best time due to fish patterns, but it was still a blast.
5.0
/
5
October may not be the best time due to fish patterns, but it was still a blast.
Jade C.
Black River Falls, WI