Damn Good Homosassa Fishing Charters

Homosassa, a small town located on the Homosassa River in Florida, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. The area boasts a range of wildlife that is unrivaled almost anywhere in the Sunshine State. The town's name comes from the Seminole for ""river of fishes,"" and locals are proud to maintain their tradition. Homosassa offers a variety of fishing charters to cater to your needs.

Three rivers feed into the backcountry, flats, and out into the Gulf of Mexico, providing ample angling opportunities. Inshore, expect to find a variety of fish species, including Snappers, Jacks, Tripletail, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Flounder, and many more. Scallops are a delicacy in these parts, while world-record Tarpon have also been caught here.

Nearshore charters offer the chance to battle Groupers, Kingfish, Cobia, Triggerfish, Hogfish, Amberjack, and the elusive Red Snapper when the season hits. The further you go, the bigger the fish get, making a full day in the Gulf a must-try for serious anglers.

Inshore trips can last anywhere from a couple of hours to 10 hours or more, while nearshore trips usually last around six hours. During Tarpon season, night trips are popular. Fishing licenses are covered when going out on a charter, and professional guides ensure that all legal limits are followed.

Inshore fishing is the crown jewel of Homosassa angling opportunities. This area is made up of mangrove shorelines, grassy flats, oyster beds, and every other habitat anglers dream of targeting. With perfect spots in every direction, the only thing limiting what you can catch are the seasons. Throughout the year Homosassa is home to popular inshore species including redfish, speckled sea trout, flounder, and Spanish mackerel each with their own peak bite.

For redfish, the best bite starts at the end of summer and runs through the fall when huge bull reds move into the shallows to spawn. Speckled trout peak twice a year with the strongest bite happening in the spring and the second starting in the fall and continuing into early winter. Spanish mackerel prefer warmer waters with their peak bite starting in the summer and continuing until temperatures start to drop in the fall.

The inshore heavy weights of Homosassa are tarpon and cobia which can grow into giants. Both of these fish move into the area in the spring and by summer they are firing on all cylinders. Once fall hits, cobia head to deeper water, and tarpon move down the coast to find somewhere warm to ride out the winter.

Tripletail are one of the most interesting and delicious fish that call Homosassa home. From early spring through the end of the year, tripletail are in the area and feeding heavily. These fish can often be seen floating on their side which is perfect for sight casting but occasionally they will strike while you’re targeting other species.

Heading away from shore, the deeper open water flanking Homosassa holds prized gamefish in the channels and reefs that are surprisingly close. Usually, deep water is nearly impossible to find along the big bend coastline but thanks to deep channels and being located on an island grouper, snapper, kingfish, mahi mahi, and cobia are all hanging around deep structure.

Casting live bait near buoys for cobia is an exciting way to spend a day on the water especially when a school of kingfish or mahi comes through. If the fish are biting near the surface you can always head to the reefs and bottom fish for snapper and grouper species but don’t be surprised if you find a cobia there instead.

Homosassa fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Homosassa are inshore, offshore, and scalloping. Inshore charters are perfect for those who want to catch redfish, trout, and snook in the shallow waters of the Homosassa River. Offshore charters are for those who want to go after bigger fish like grouper, snapper, and kingfish in the Gulf of Mexico. Scalloping charters are a unique experience where you can catch your own scallops in the crystal-clear waters of Homosassa Bay.

Some of the most common fish to catch in Homosassa include redfish, trout, snook, grouper, snapper, and kingfish. Inshore charters are best for catching redfish, trout, and snook, while offshore charters are ideal for catching grouper, snapper, and kingfish. Scalloping charters offer a chance to catch scallops, which are a local delicacy.

Homosassa fishing charters often visit landmarks like the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and the Homosassa River. These areas are known for their abundant wildlife and beautiful scenery, making them the perfect backdrop for a day of fishing.

Homosassa, Florida is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, there are plenty of great spots to cast a line. Here are some of the best places to fish in Homosassa, whether you're going on a fishing charter or just casting from shore:

1. Homosassa River: This scenic river is home to a variety of fish species, including redfish, trout, and tarpon. Fishing charters are available for those who want to explore the river's many channels and backwaters.

2. Crystal River: Known for its abundant scallops, Crystal River is also a great place to fish for redfish, snook, and trout. Fishing charters can take you to the best spots and provide all the gear you need.

3. Chassahowitzka River: This winding river is a popular spot for kayak fishing, with plenty of opportunities to catch redfish, snook, and sheepshead. Fishing charters are also available for those who prefer a guided experience.

4. Ozello Keys: This chain of islands and mangrove-lined channels is a prime spot for catching redfish, trout, and snook. Fishing charters can take you to the best spots and provide all the gear you need.

5. Gulf of Mexico: For those who want to venture offshore, the Gulf of Mexico offers a chance to catch grouper, snapper, and other big game fish. Fishing charters can take you out to the best spots and provide all the gear you need.

While Homosassa fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this Florida city. Take a scenic boat tour of the Homosassa River, visit the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park to see manatees up close, or explore the Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park. For a unique experience, check out the Monkey Island at the Homosassa Riverside Resort. If you're looking for a thrill, try an airboat ride through the swamps with River Safaris and Gulf Charters. And don't forget to indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants.