Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in Jacksonville

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Jacksonville, FL
$450 - $800 price range

Summary

Jacksonville's shallow waters are a prime fishing spot, and this 4-hour trip with Backwater Fishing Adventures lets you make the most of them. You'll head out in the afternoon to target species like redfish, flounder, brook trout, and black drum. The guides know these waters inside and out, so they'll show you different techniques to improve your chances of landing a catch. It's a great option for families or small groups, with room for 3 adults and 1 kid on the boat. Even if you're new to fishing, don't worry - the crew is patient and happy to teach. You'll get to experience the natural beauty of the area while trying your hand at some quality inshore fishing. It's a fun way to spend an afternoon on the water and maybe bring home some fresh fish for dinner.

Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in Jacksonville

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Reel in the Action: Jacksonville's Inshore Hotspots

Hey there, angler! Ready to hit the local honey holes and tangle with some of Jacksonville's most sought-after inshore species? Backwater Fishing Adventures has you covered with this 4-hour afternoon trip that'll have you casting lines and swapping fish tales in no time. We're talking prime fishing grounds just off Jacksonville Beach, where the redfish are tailing, and the flounder are lurking. This isn't your average boat ride – it's a chance to learn the ropes from seasoned pros who know these waters like the back of their hand. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's get after some fish!

What's the Scoop?

Picture this: You're cruising through crystal-clear shallows, rod in hand, ready to outsmart some of Florida's wiliest game fish. This trip is all about giving you the full Jacksonville inshore experience. We'll hit up all the local hotspots – from grass flats where redfish love to prowl, to deeper holes where hefty black drum hang out. And the best part? It's perfect for the whole crew. We can take up to 3 adults and 1 kid, so bring the family or round up your fishing buddies. No experience? No worries! Our guides are here to show you the ropes, from rigging up to reeling in the big one.

Fishing Know-How

Alright, let's talk tactics. On this trip, you'll get schooled in the art of inshore fishing, Jacksonville style. We're talking light tackle that'll give you a real run for your money when a chunky red decides to take off. You might find yourself sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water – talk about a rush! Or maybe we'll set you up with a popping cork rig to entice some speckled trout. And don't forget about the ol' bottom fishing for those tasty flounder. Our guides will have you dialed in on the best techniques for each species, so you'll be fishing like a local in no time. We provide all the gear, but feel free to bring your lucky rod if you've got one.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Let's break down the stars of the show – the fish you'll be chasing on this trip. First up, the redfish. These copper-colored beauties are the pride of Jacksonville's inshore waters. They love to cruise the shallows, often with their tails sticking out of the water as they root for crabs. Spring and fall are prime time for reds, but you can catch 'em year-round. They put up a heck of a fight and are delicious on the dinner table.

Next, we've got the southern flounder. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. They're ambush predators, so we'll target them around structure and drop-offs. Fall is the best time to catch big flounder as they migrate to spawn, but you can find them throughout the year. The thrill of hooking a flounder is matched only by their fantastic taste.

Don't sleep on the black drum. These cousins of the redfish can grow to monster sizes, but we usually target the smaller "puppy drum" that are perfect for eating. They love hanging around bridges and docks, and you can catch them year-round. When you hook one, get ready for some serious pull – these guys don't give up easily!

Last but not least, the sea trout, or as we call 'em, speckled trout. These spotted beauties are a blast to catch on light tackle. They're most active in the cooler months, but you can find them year-round in Jacksonville. Trout are known for their soft mouths, so finesse is key when fighting them. They're also mighty tasty, making them a favorite among local anglers.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Listen, I've been guiding these waters for years, and I still get pumped every time I head out. There's something special about Jacksonville's inshore fishing scene. Maybe it's the variety – one minute you're sight-casting to redfish, the next you're working a jig for flounder. Or maybe it's the scenery – from the golden marshes to the sparkling waters, it's a slice of Florida paradise. But what really keeps folks coming back is the thrill of the catch. There's nothing like feeling that first tug on the line, not knowing if it's a bull red or a gator trout on the other end. And let's be real, the bragging rights don't hurt either. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, these waters have something for everyone.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, here's the deal – if you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best inshore fishing Jacksonville has to offer, don't wait around. These trips fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a day on the water with family and friends, Backwater Fishing Adventures has got you covered. We provide all the gear, know-how, and local insight to make your trip a success. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call, book your spot, and get ready to make some memories (and maybe catch dinner while you're at it). Trust me, once you fish these waters, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the boat!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black drum are the bulldogs of our local waters. These powerful fish can reach over 50 pounds, though eating-size ones are usually 5-15 pounds. You'll find them in brackish areas around oyster beds, pier pilings, and muddy bottoms. They use those strong jaws and teeth to crush shellfish - you can actually hear them crunching sometimes! Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn, making them easier to target. But you can catch 'em year-round. Black drum put up a stubborn fight, and smaller ones (under 15 pounds) are great eating with firm, white meat. They're not the prettiest fish, but anglers love 'em for the challenge. Use fresh crab or shrimp on the bottom - they're not picky eaters. A local trick is to chum with crushed oysters or mussels to really get them going. Just be ready when that rod doubles over!

Redfish

Sea Trout

Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a blast to catch. These silvery, spotted fish usually run 14-20 inches and 1-3 pounds, though bigger ones aren't uncommon. Look for them around grass flats, creek mouths, and deeper holes on falling tides. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on moving tides. Sea trout put up a good fight with some acrobatic jumps, and they're excellent eating with delicate, white meat. Locals love 'em for both the sport and the table. Live shrimp under a popping cork is deadly, but artificial lures work great too. Try a soft plastic jig bounced along the bottom or a topwater plug early in the morning. One trick is to look for diving birds - they'll lead you right to feeding trout. Just remember to set the hook quick, as they have soft mouths and can throw the hook easily.

Southern Flounder

Redfish are a favorite around here, and for good reason. These reddish-bronze beauties typically run 20-30 inches, though they can get much bigger offshore. You'll find them in shallow water - sometimes with their backs out of the water! They love hanging around oyster beds, grass flats, and muddy bottoms in 1-4 feet of water. Fall is prime time as they school up, but you can catch 'em year-round. Redfish put up a great fight and are excellent eating with mild, sweet meat. That black spot near the tail isn't just for looks - it tricks predators into attacking the wrong end. Pretty clever, huh? If you want to land a big one, try tossing a topwater lure like a Skitter Walk early in the morning. That explosion when they hit is something else. Or use live shrimp on a popping cork - gets 'em every time. Just remember to release the big breeders over 27 inches so we keep the population healthy.

About the

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Grab your fishing gear and join us for an awesome afternoon on the water in Jacksonville Beach! We'll spend 4 hours exploring the rich inshore fishing spots this area is famous for. You'll get to try out different techniques to catch prized fish like redfish, flounder, brook trout, and black drum. Our boat has room for 3 adults and a kid, so it's perfect for a small group or family outing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, our guides will show you the ropes and help you reel in some great catches. The shallow waters around Jacksonville offer some of the best inshore fishing you'll find anywhere. Don't miss this chance to experience it for yourself - book your trip with Backwater Fishing Adventures today and get ready for a fun-filled afternoon on the water!

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