Looking for a taste of Gulf Coast fishing without committing to a full day on the water? Our 4-hour trip out of Carrabelle is just the ticket. We'll hit the bay and nearby reefs, giving you a shot at some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. Whether you're a first-timer or bringing the whole family along, this trip is set up for success. From Cobia to Flounder, Redfish to Trout, there's always something biting in these parts. Just bring your favorite snacks and drinks, and we'll handle the rest. It's time to wet a line and see what's biting!
When you step aboard our boat in Carrabelle, you're in for a real treat. We'll cruise out into the bay, where the water's usually calm enough for even the most novice angler. As we hit our first spot, you'll see why this area is a fishing hotspot. The mix of sandy bottoms, grass flats, and nearby reefs creates a perfect habitat for all sorts of fish. We'll start you off with some basic techniques - nothing too fancy, just good old-fashioned bait fishing to get those rods bending. Don't worry if you've never held a rod before; our crew is here to show you the ropes. We'll bait your hooks, help you cast, and even take your fish off the line if you're not quite ready for that part yet. As the trip goes on, we might switch up our tactics depending on what's biting. By the end of your four hours, you'll have gotten a real feel for inshore fishing, Gulf Coast style.
On this half-day trip, we keep things pretty straightforward. We'll mostly be using light to medium tackle, perfect for the inshore species we're after. Depending on where the fish are biting, we might do some drift fishing over the grass flats or anchor up near structure. Live bait is often the key to success here, so we'll have plenty of shrimp or small baitfish ready to go. If conditions are right, we might break out some artificial lures - soft plastics or topwater plugs can be deadly on species like Redfish and Trout. For those interested in shark fishing, we've got heavier gear on board. We'll use bigger baits and sturdier tackle to handle those toothy critters. Throughout the trip, we'll show you how to work your bait, set the hook, and play your fish. It's all about learning by doing, and trust me, once you feel that first tug on the line, you'll be hooked!
"Cpt Terry knew where the fish were. We had fish on the hook within a minute of dropping bait. Cpt Terry will bait your hook, take the fish off it, and even filet them up for you. Very knowledgeable and has great fish stories. Very nice guy as well. Highly recommend." - Ronald
Summer Flounder: These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They might not look like much, but they put up a surprisingly good fight and make for some excellent eating. We typically find them in deeper channels or near drop-offs. The best part? They can be caught year-round in our waters, but summer and early fall tend to be prime time.
Redfish: Also known as Red Drum, these copper-colored beauties are a favorite among local anglers. They've got a distinctive black spot on their tail, which legend says wards off predators. Redfish love to cruise the shallows, often revealing their presence with their tails sticking out of the water as they feed - we call that "tailing." They're known for their strong runs, so hang on tight when you hook one!
Blacktip Shark: Don't let their size fool you; Blacktips are one of the sportiest sharks you can catch inshore. They're fast, acrobatic, and known for their impressive jumps when hooked. We typically find them closer to the passes and beaches, especially in the warmer months. Landing one of these toothy critters will definitely give you some bragging rights.
Bull Shark: These are the heavyweights of our inshore shark fishing. Bull Sharks are stocky, powerful, and can grow to impressive sizes. They're not as common as Blacktips, but when you hook into one, you're in for a real battle. We find them in a variety of habitats, from shallow bays to deeper channels. Just remember, with these big boys, it's all about the photo and release.
Black Sea Bass: These might be smaller than some of our other targets, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and taste. Black Sea Bass hang around structure, so we'll often find them near reefs or wrecks. They're eager biters and put up a scrappy fight on light tackle. Plus, they're delicious - if you're looking to take home dinner, these are a great option.
So there you have it, folks - a half day of non-stop fishing action right here in Carrabelle. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a morning out on the water, this trip has got you covered. Remember, fishing isn't just about what you catch - it's about the experience, the stories, and the memories you make along the way. But let's be honest, catching fish is pretty darn fun too! We've got the local knowledge, the right gear, and the passion to make your trip a success. All that's missing is you. So why wait? The fish are biting, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Give us a call, book your trip, and let's get out there and wet some lines. Trust me, once you feel that first hit, you'll be counting down the days until your next Carrabelle fishing adventure!
May 24, 2025
Black sea bass are feisty little fighters, usually 2-4 pounds but can reach up to 8. They're bottom dwellers, hanging around rocky areas, wrecks, and reefs in waters up to 120 feet deep. Late spring to summer is prime time when they move closer to shore. Anglers love targeting them for their scrappy nature and excellent table fare. These fish put up a good scrap until they hit the surface. For gear, a medium-weight 6-8 foot rod with 20-30 pound line does the trick. They're mostly bottom feeders, so bait rigs with squid or cut fish work well. Here's a tip: if you're after the bigger males, head to deeper water with rocky bottoms. And keep an eye out during spawning season - the males turn bright blue and develop a distinctive hump on their heads.
Blacktip sharks are some real characters - they're known for their acrobatics, sometimes even jumping into boats! These sharks usually run about 5 feet long, though the big ones can hit 9 feet and 270 pounds. You'll find them cruising in waters up to 100 feet deep, often near artificial reefs or in muddy bays. Summer's prime time for blacktips. Anglers love 'em for the exciting fight and those spectacular jumps. To hook one, you'll need heavy gear - think 50-pound braid and circle hooks. Chum is key. Mash up some oily fish like mackerel or herring and get it in the water. Live sardines make great bait too. Here's a local trick: if you really want to get their attention, try using a fresh eel as bait. The strong smell drives 'em crazy.
Bull sharks are the heavyweights of our local waters, usually 8-12 feet long and weighing up to 300 pounds. These bruisers are unique - they can live in both saltwater and freshwater, so you might find them in coastal areas, rivers, or even lakes. Summer's when they're most active here, especially in shallow, warm waters. Anglers target bulls for the sheer power and challenge. These sharks put up a heck of a fight. To catch one, you'll need sturdy gear and plenty of patience. Float fishing with natural bait works best - try whole fish like mullet or cut bait like mackerel. Here's a local secret: freshwater eel is killer bait for bull sharks. The high oil content and tough skin make it irresistible. Just be ready for a battle when one takes your bait.
Redfish, or red drum, are a favorite around here. You'll spot 'em by that distinctive black spot near the tail - it's actually a false "eye" to confuse predators. Most reds we catch run 28-33 inches, but the real trophies can hit 45 inches and 50 pounds. These guys love shallow water, often in just 1-4 feet. Look for them around oyster reefs, grass flats, and muddy bottoms. Fall's the best time to target redfish, but you can catch 'em year-round. Anglers go nuts for the fight these fish put up, plus they're great eating. If you want to land a big red, try fishing topwater lures in the shallows - nothing beats seeing a redfish explode on a surface bait. Pro tip: when the water's really skinny, sometimes you can spot their backs sticking out above the surface.
Summer flounder are masters of camouflage, changing color to blend with the seafloor. These flatfish usually run 15-20 inches but can grow up to 26 pounds. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, hanging out near the bottom. They're ambush predators, so they like structure - reefs, wrecks, and sandy areas. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing, especially September to November. Anglers love targeting them for their tasty white meat and the challenge of hooking these sneaky bottom-dwellers. When you're after flounder, try using a circle hook with live bait like minnows or mullet. Hook smaller baitfish through the eye, larger ones through the lips. A 7-foot casting rod with sturdy line is your best bet. Don't forget a sinker to keep that bait down where the flounder are lurking.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
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Cpt Terry knew where the fish were. We had fish on the hook within a minute of dropping bait. Cpt Terry will bait your hook, take the fish off it, and even filet them up for you. Very knowledgeable and has great fish stories. Very nice guy as well. Highly recommend.