%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F56567%2Fimages%2F17629147579642180f72e-cee2-41f7-afdb-4a968155d032.png&w=1200&q=100)
Expert-Guided Beginner Fishing in Jacksonville
- Published Date: November 14, 2025
- Fishing
- $550 price range
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F15ca7534-3a1e-42fc-b836-ff621f4a6c27%2Fratecard%2F565fc8928e12448e8eb3527ef5b5fcd3-mhvdd9uu.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Inshore Catches
Jacksonville waters never disappoint.
From docks to deep sea, it’s all here.
Bait, cast, catch, repeat.
Chill vibes and tight lines.
Jacksonville fishing at its finest.
Inshore calm, offshore excitement.
Good times start on the water.
Your next great catch is right here.
Nothing beats a Florida fishing day.
Rods ready, tides rising—let’s go!
Jacksonville waters never disappoint.
From docks to deep sea, it’s all here.
Bait, cast, catch, repeat.
Chill vibes and tight lines.
Jacksonville fishing at its finest.
Inshore calm, offshore excitement.
Good times start on the water.
Your next great catch is right here.
Nothing beats a Florida fishing day.
Rods ready, tides rising—let’s go!
Jacksonville waters never disappoint.
From docks to deep sea, it’s all here.
Bait, cast, catch, repeat.
Chill vibes and tight lines.
Beginner's Luck: Jacksonville's Inshore Fishing Gems
Ready to dip your toes into the exciting world of inshore fishing? Captain Tom Wheeler's got you covered with this laid-back 4-hour trip that's perfect for newbies and those looking to brush up on their skills. You'll be cruising the St. Johns River and Atlantic waters near Jacksonville, FL, aboard a comfy 25' Robalo bay boat. It's the ideal setup for first-timers to get their sea legs and maybe even land their first big catch. With all the gear provided and Captain Tom's expert guidance, you'll be reeling in Redfish, Black Drum, and more before you know it. Let's dive into what makes this trip a top-notch choice for beginner anglers.
What's the Deal?
Picture this: You're out on the water, the Jacksonville skyline fading behind you as Captain Tom points out the best spots to drop a line. This isn't your grandpa's boring fishing trip – it's a hands-on intro to inshore angling that'll have you hooked (pun intended) in no time. You and up to two buddies will spend half a day learning the ropes, from baiting hooks to reading the water. The best part? Everything's included – rods, reels, live bait, and even your fishing license. Just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a snack or two.
Casting 101
Worried about looking like a fish out of water? Don't sweat it. Captain Tom's all about making sure you're comfortable before you start casting. He'll walk you through the basics of inshore fishing techniques, like how to work a soft plastic lure for Redfish or the gentle touch needed for Sea Trout. You'll be using light tackle that's easy to handle, perfect for getting a feel for the fight of these inshore species. And hey, if you're struggling, no worries – Tom's got patience in spades and plenty of tricks up his sleeve to help you land that first catch.
Fish Tales
Ever wonder what makes Jacksonville's waters so special? It's all about the mix of freshwater from the St. Johns River meeting the salty Atlantic. This creates a unique playground for a variety of fish species. You might start your day chasing Redfish in the shallows, then switch gears to target Black Drum around structure. If the bite's on, you could even find yourself tangling with a hard-fighting Cobia. Each species has its own personality, and Captain Tom knows just how to introduce you to these underwater characters.
Top Catches This Season
Let's talk fish – the stars of the show on this trip. Jacksonville's inshore waters are teeming with some real beauties, and even as a beginner, you've got a solid shot at landing a few. Here's the lowdown on what you might be reeling in:
Redfish: These copper-colored brutes are the local celebrities. They love hanging out near oyster beds and grass flats, and they put up one heck of a fight. Redfish can range from "puppy drum" size to over 40 inches, and they're known for their distinctive black spot near the tail. The best part? They're great eating if you decide to keep one for dinner.
Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mug fool you – Black Drum are a blast to catch. These cousins of the Redfish can grow to monster sizes, but the ones you'll likely encounter inshore are perfect for beginners. They've got a sweet tooth for crustaceans, so if you're using shrimp or crab for bait, you're in business.
Sea Trout: Also known as Spotted Seatrout, these guys are the ninjas of the inshore world. They're quick, they're sneaky, and they've got a mouth full of teeth. Sea Trout are a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts because they'll hit topwater lures with explosive strikes that'll get your heart racing.
Flounder: Flat as a pancake and just as tasty, Flounder are the ambush predators of the inshore scene. They like to bury themselves in the sand and wait for prey to swim by. Catching them requires a bit of finesse, but when you hook into one, it's like reeling in a dinner plate – a really delicious dinner plate.
Cobia: These bruisers are the wildcards of the trip. While not as common as the other species, hooking into a Cobia is like hitting the jackpot. They're strong, they're stubborn, and they'll test your newfound skills to the max. Plus, they've got a quirky habit of following large animals like sharks or rays, so keep your eyes peeled for some cool marine life while you're out there.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Sure, catching fish is great, but it's not just about what ends up on the end of your line. This trip is all about getting your feet wet (figuratively speaking) in the world of inshore fishing. You'll learn how to read the water, spot fish activity, and work with the tides – skills that'll stick with you long after you're back on dry land. Plus, there's something special about being out on the water, watching dolphins play in the distance or ospreys diving for their lunch. It's a chance to disconnect from the daily grind and tune into nature's rhythm.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, let's reel it in (last fish pun, I promise). If you're looking to try your hand at inshore fishing without getting in over your head, Captain Tom's beginner-friendly trip is your ticket. Whether you're a total newbie or just need a refresher, this 4-hour adventure is the perfect way to get a taste of Jacksonville's inshore fishing scene. With all the gear provided, expert guidance at your fingertips, and a boatload of potential catches swimming around, you're set up for a day of firsts and fun. So why not grab a couple friends, book your spot, and see what the fuss is all about? Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite hobby. Tight lines and see you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are the heavyweights of the drum family, ranging from 5 to 30 pounds, with some monsters hitting 90 pounds. You'll find them in brackish waters, estuaries, and around oyster beds. These fish love shallow, muddy flats but can also hang out in depths up to 100 feet. Spring's the hot time for Black Drum as they school up to spawn. Anglers get a kick out of their strong fight and the weird croaking sound they make. For the best eating, stick to smaller ones under 15 pounds - the big ones can be tough and less tasty. When fishing for Black Drum, use fresh crab or clams on the bottom. Here's a pro tip: if you're not getting bites, try crushing your bait a bit to release more scent. These guys have a great sense of smell and will come running.
Cobia
Cobia are the bruisers of our local waters, often mistaken for sharks due to their size and shape. These solitary fish can grow up to 6 feet and 100 pounds, though most you'll catch are in the 30-50 pound range. Look for them around structures like reefs, buoys, and even large rays or sharks they like to follow. Spring and early summer are prime Cobia seasons as they migrate through our area. Anglers prize Cobia for their hard-fighting nature and excellent eating quality. To catch one, try sight fishing with large jigs or live eels. Here's a local trick: when you spot a Cobia, cast well ahead of it and let the bait sink. These curious fish will often investigate and strike if the presentation looks natural. Be ready for a battle - Cobia are known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are a staple in our local waters. These copper-colored beauties, known for the distinctive black spot near their tail, typically range from 20 to 35 inches. You'll find them in shallow waters, often as shallow as 1 to 4 feet, hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and even old piers. They're year-round residents but really fire up in the fall. Anglers love Redfish for their strong fights and excellent table fare. To catch one, try sight fishing in the shallows with topwater lures or live bait like shrimp. Here's a tip: look for 'tailing' Redfish in very shallow water - their tails sticking up as they root for food in the bottom. It's an exciting way to target these fish and can lead to some explosive strikes.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also known as Spotted Seatrout, are a favorite among local anglers. These silvery, torpedo-shaped fish typically run 14 to 24 inches, with some reaching up to 5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They're most active in our warmer months but form big schools in deeper waters during winter. Sea Trout put up a good fight and are known for their delicate, mild flavor. To catch 'em, try using artificial lures like jerk baits or topwater plugs in grass flats. They're suckers for live shrimp too. Here's a local secret: if you're having trouble locating them, try trolling slowly along grass edges. The bite is often best during tide changes, so time your trip right and you'll be in for some great action.
Southern Flounder
These flat, oval-shaped fish are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Southern Flounder typically range from 15 to 18 inches, but can grow up to 33 inches. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing as they move to deeper waters to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their delicious, mild white meat. To catch one, try drifting or still fishing with live bait like bull minnows or mullet. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab their prey and reposition it before swallowing, so give them time to take the bait fully.
About the Out N About Fishing Charter
%2F%2Fusers%2F15ca7534-3a1e-42fc-b836-ff621f4a6c27%2Fvehicle_picture%2Fd552a47c1e6c5f05396d205ce2e32f79-mhvd4b9b.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 60
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
