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Damn Good Inshore Fishing Charters In Florida

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Florida inshore fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Inshore Fishing Charters In Florida

Fishing in Fort Walton Beach

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Walton Beach

Captain's Discretion

89% (9)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Tarpon Fishing (seasonally)

100% (18)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $350
Fishing in Panama City Beach

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Panama City Beach

2 Hour Kids Trip

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $400
Fishing in Largo

Deep Sea, Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Largo

Offshore Catch And Release

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Niceville

Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Niceville

Destin Gulf Fishing

100% (5)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Panama City

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Panama City

Half Day Shark Roundup

100% (5)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $700

Top Cities for Inshore Fishing in Florida

Top Types of Inshore Trips in Florida

Top Species for Inshore Fishing in Florida

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More Inshore Fishing Charters In Florida

Fishing in Daytona Beach
Fishing in Daytona Beach
Fishing in Daytona Beach
trip description for Daytona Beach Inshore Fishing in Daytona Beach

Climb aboard with Captain Srbo for an inshore adventure! You will be Push poled around the mangrove banks where the fish are plentiful and the waters calm. You will be casting light tackle in the hopes of getting a bite from one of the many inshore species such as, Flounder, Mangrove Snapper, Redfish, Tarpon, Snook, and Speckled Trout. Up to 3 guests can fit on the 18’ Sterling TR7 flats boat, plus the captain. The vessel is powered by a 60hp Mercury engine. Captain Srbo will bring all the equipment you need for an amazing trip, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. When you get back to the dock he will clean and package your catch so you can take home a delicious dinner. He will bring snacks and water and arizona ice tea for the trip but feel free to bring along anything extra you may like. You should bring sun protection and sunglasses! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Inshore Fishing

100% (25)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $289
Fishing in Lake Clarke Shores
Fishing in Lake Clarke Shores
Fishing in Lake Clarke Shores
trip description for Peacocks and Exotic Fishing Trips in Lake Clarke Shores

Looking to catch Peacock, Largemouth Bass, Clown Knife Fish, or Snakeheads? You came to the right place. With over 50 years of experience in South Florida, Captain Tim knows where the fish are biting and how to catch them! He has everything you need for a great day out on the water with family and friends, so what are you waiting for? Read More

Inshore, Lake Fishing Charter in Lake Clarke Shores

Peacocks And Exotic Fishing Trips

100% (1)
19 ft 1 - 3 People From $275
Fishing in Santa Rosa Beach
Fishing in Santa Rosa Beach
Fishing in Santa Rosa Beach
trip description for 30A Inshore Slam in Santa Rosa Beach

Head out with Captain Marvin for an awesome inshore fishing experience in the rich waters off Santa Rosa Beach, FL. This area has an huge variety of different fish species, from classics like Redfish and Trout, to gamefish such as Jack Crevalle and even Blacktip Sharks! You name it, Captain Marvin will help you land it! To hook these fish, you will be mostly fishing the inshore bays and flats in the Hogtown Bayou area. These flats are a perfect place to practice sightcasting to tailing Reds, so bring your A-game. There is nothing more rewarding than spotting, stalking, and making a perfect cast to an unsuspecting fish. The rush of that hook set is an experience you won't soon forget. Captain Marvin is adept at teaching new fishermen these techniques, so whether you're a seasoned veteran looking for your next trophy or a beginner looking to learn the ropes, Captain Marvin will work his hardest to make sure you have the best possible experience out on the water! You'l fish from the deck of his 22' Cape Horn bay boat—an ideal vessel for these waters. She's powered by a 225 HP Honda, so you'll be on fish in no time at all. Everything for your trip is included, but you're more than welcome to bring any of your own gear if you like. Otherwise, all you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, and Captain Marvin will take care of the rest! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Santa Rosa Beach

30A Inshore Slam

100% (4)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Key Largo
Fishing in Key Largo
Fishing in Key Largo
trip description for Key Largo Backcountry in Key Largo

Head out for the real Florida Keys inshore fishing experience with Captain Andrew! His 24' boat is the perfect vessel for stalking across the beautiful sand and grass flats chasing Jacks, Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit. It is also perfect for maneuvering the intricate network of mangroves that constitute the backcountry and Everglades National Park, which species including Speckled Trout, Redfish, Bluefish, and Mangrove Snapper call home! Captain Andrew will get you set up with all the light tackle gear and tackle you'll need to have a successful day out there. The most common and versatile technique, light tackle makes for a great day out on the water producing numbers of fish like Mangrove Snapper and Jack Crevalle. This experience is perfect for the kids if you'd like to bring them along as well! Captain Andrew of course provides all rods and reels for the trip, but if you have a fishing rod that you would like to bring you are more than welcome to! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key Largo

Key Largo Backcountry

100% (24)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Fort Myers Beach
Fishing in Fort Myers Beach
Fishing in Fort Myers Beach
trip description for Back Bay Trip – 27’ Carolina in Fort Myers Beach

Hop aboard and get ready for our fun, affordable back bay, inshore, and nearshore private fishing charters located on Fort Myers Beach, Florida! Our operation is family-owned and operated by the native Irishman, himself, Capt Rich! His passion for fishing grew stronger than ever when he moved to Florida and began fishing the Gulf of Mexico. With over 20 years of knowledge and experience on Fort Myers Beach, Capt Rich set out to pursue his dream in sharing a love of fishing with others. Captain Rich prides himself on running fun charters for all ages as he offers a variety of fishing trips for four, six, and eight hour trips targeting Redfish, Snapper, Snook, Trout, Grouper, Shark and more! On this Fort Myers Beach Back Bay Fishing Charters, Captain Rich will show you how to hook into Redfish, Sheepshead, Snapper, Snook, Trout, Shark, and more! Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you also come across dolphins, manatees, manta rays, turtles, native waterbirds, and other exotic wildlife as you fish the mangroves of Southwest Florida. All charters are tailored for private parties so let Captain Rich know what species your looking to chase, and he will work to make your dreams a reality! ​ Captain Rich will provide all the poles, bait, and fun! All he asks is that you bring along whatever food and beverages you wish, as well as coolers and ice if you need them. In Fort Myers, FL, it is very important to protect your skin. We encourage all passengers to pack hats, sunglasses, and sun screen (SPF 50+). Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Myers Beach

Back Bay Trip – 27’ Carolina

100% (9)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
trip description for Flats Backcountry Quest in Islamorada

Get out there on board a 2021 22' Skeeter with Captain Eric! This boat is a custom-built Bay Boat for fishing the shallow waters of Florida Bay. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Florida Keys while catching fish on the flats and estuaries, or venture back into the Everglades National Park. There are a variety of species to target while Inshore Fishing with Captain Eric-Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Permit, Bonefish, Speckled Sea Trout, and Mangrove Snapper! Captain Eric specializes in Light Tackle Fishing, and with more than five generations of local Florida Keys fishing experiences in his veins. Captain Eric knows where the fish are!! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Flats Backcountry Quest

94% (16)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
See All Inshore Trips in Florida

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Everything to Know About Booking a Florida inshore fishing charter

What are the best inshore fishing charters in Florida?

Why should I book an inshore fishing charter in Florida with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 731 inshore trips in Florida, and the most popular trips in the area are Captain's Discretion guided by Joey, Tarpon Fishing (seasonally) guided by Antonio, and 2 Hour Kids Trip guided by Joshua.

Our guides in Florida are rated a 4.92 out of 5 based on 3522 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly inshore guides / fishing lessons in Florida? Check out our beginner and family friendly inshore guides in Florida.

What types of inshore fishing charters are common in Florida?

The most commonly sought after species for inshore fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. snook, 4. tarpon, and 5. mangrove snapper.

The most common fishing techniques in Florida are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but bottom fishing and cut bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do Florida inshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for inshore fishing in Florida can range anywhere from about $475 to $1,400, but the average price for a half day trip for inshore fishing in Florida is $728. The average price for a full day trip for inshore fishing in Florida is $1,084.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for inshore fishing in Florida?

The most popular season for inshore fishing in Florida is summer, and most anglers book their trips 16 days in advance.

Do I need a Florida fishing license and what are the bag limits in Florida?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Florida, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Florida. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Florida.

What is inshore fishing in Florida all about?

In Florida, inshore fishing is a beloved pastime that offers anglers an abundance of opportunities to connect with a diverse range of species in the state's extensive coastal waters. The Sunshine State's inshore fishing is renowned for its accessibility, catering to both novice and experienced anglers. With an expansive network of mangroves, estuaries, flats, and coastal rivers, Florida provides habitats for an array of sought-after species, including redfish, snook, speckled trout, flounder, and tarpon.

One of the appealing aspects of inshore fishing in Florida is the versatility it offers throughout the year. Each season brings its own unique opportunities and challenges. In the cooler months, the inshore waters become a haven for anglers pursuing sheepshead, black drum, and trophy-sized speckled trout. As temperatures rise, the spring and summer months attract tarpon enthusiasts, with the chance to hook into these powerful and acrobatic game fish. Florida's inshore fishing truly shines in its ability to cater to diverse preferences and skill levels, ensuring that anglers can enjoy a rich and ever-changing fishing experience.

In addition to the varied species and year-round fishing, Florida's inshore waters provide an immersive experience within a stunning natural backdrop. Whether navigating the labyrinthine mangroves, casting along seagrass beds, or exploring the winding channels of coastal rivers, anglers are treated to the scenic beauty of Florida's coastal landscapes. The state's commitment to conservation and sustainable fishing practices ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the thrill of inshore fishing in this aquatic paradise.

What species are most popular inshore fishing in Florida?

Florida's inshore waters offer an exciting array of species that make every fishing adventure memorable. Redfish, known for their bronze coloration and powerful fights, are a staple for inshore anglers. These resilient fish thrive in the shallow waters of Florida's flats, estuaries, and mangrove-lined shorelines, presenting anglers with the challenge of sight fishing and precise casting. The year-round presence of redfish makes them a consistent target for those seeking a rewarding inshore fishing experience in Florida.

Another prized catch in Florida's inshore waters is the snook. These elusive and predatory fish are often found near structures like mangroves, docks, and bridges. Renowned for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps, snook provide an exhilarating challenge for anglers. The warmer months, in particular, see an increase in snook activity, making them a prime target for those exploring Florida's coastal ecosystems.

For anglers seeking a thrill, the silver king, or tarpon, is a sought-after species in Florida's inshore fishing scene. Known for their massive size and impressive aerial displays, tarpon attract anglers from around the world. The shallow flats and coastal waters of Florida provide a vibrant habitat for tarpon, especially during the warmer months when they migrate along the coast. Successfully hooking and battling a tarpon is a bucket-list experience for many anglers, adding an extra layer of excitement to inshore fishing adventures in Florida.

What are the inshore fishing seasons in Florida?

In Florida, the inshore fishing seasons are as diverse as the array of species that inhabit its coastal waters. Winter brings cooler temperatures and a focus on species like sheepshead, black drum, and trophy-sized speckled trout. These months provide anglers with the opportunity to target fish seeking warmth in deeper channels and structures. As spring unfolds, the inshore scene transitions with the warming weather, and redfish become more active in the shallows. The resurgence of baitfish activity also attracts predatory species like snook, initiating a season of increased inshore fishing excitement.

Summer in Florida signals the arrival of tarpon season, arguably one of the most thrilling aspects of inshore fishing. These majestic silver kings migrate along the coast, creating a spectacle for anglers looking to test their skills against these powerful and acrobatic giants. The warmer months also see increased activity from species like snook, trout, and redfish, offering a diverse range of targets for inshore anglers. Fall continues the action, with redfish schools becoming more prevalent and the chance to encounter the tailing tails of these powerful fish making for an exciting angling experience.

Florida's year-round mild climate ensures that inshore fishing is accessible throughout the seasons. However, each season brings its unique charm and opportunities, making it possible for anglers to tailor their pursuits based on their preferences and the specific species they want to target. Whether it's the cooler months focusing on winter species, the lively spring and summer tarpon pursuits, or the autumn redfish rallies, Florida's inshore fishing calendar ensures a dynamic and ever-changing angling landscape for enthusiasts to explore.

What techniques are popular for inshore fishing in Florida?

Mastering inshore fishing techniques in Florida requires a versatile skill set due to the diversity of habitats and species present in the state's coastal waters. One commonly employed technique is sight fishing, especially in the clear, shallow flats that are home to species like redfish and snook. Polarized sunglasses are a crucial tool for anglers to spot fish in the shallows, allowing for precise casting to these often-wary species. Techniques such as using artificial lures, like soft plastics or topwater baits, add an extra layer of finesse to sight fishing, making it an exhilarating and visually engaging experience for anglers in Florida.

Live bait fishing is another highly effective technique for inshore anglers in Florida. Shrimp, mullet, and pilchards are popular choices that can entice a variety of species, including redfish, snook, and trout. Free-lining or using a popping cork to suspend the bait at a desired depth are common methods, offering versatility in adapting to different inshore environments. This technique is particularly effective near structures such as mangroves, docks, and oyster bars, where predatory fish often lurk.

Topwater fishing adds an exciting dimension to inshore angling in Florida, creating explosive moments during the early morning or late afternoon hours. Species like speckled trout, redfish, and snook are known to strike surface lures, creating thrilling visual encounters for anglers. The strategic use of walk-the-dog style lures or popping plugs can trigger aggressive strikes, making topwater fishing a dynamic and rewarding technique in the diverse inshore ecosystems of Florida. Adaptability and a willingness to switch techniques based on conditions and target species are key elements for success in Florida's ever-changing inshore fishing landscape.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience. Allen went above and beyond to ensure we hd a great tine. This was our first time lobstering, and Allen patiently taught us everything we need to know and helped us every step of the way. Could not have asked for more, as Allen made this trip exceed our expectations!

    Stephen R. | September 15, 2024

    Trip: Catch Your Own Tasty Lobster!

  • ★★★★★
    Super guide. Knows the waters and area. Had a great time.

    David G. | September 12, 2024

    Trip: Flats fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had the best time! Bowfishing is one of our favorite sports and being able to have the opportunity to take this trip was without a doubt the coolest experience! Thank you again for a great night!

    Kyle S. | September 11, 2024

    Trip: Nighttime Bowfishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Tyler was awesome! Super nice guy who is incredibly knowledgeable about fishing the Everglades. We hooked multiple tarpon and Tyler cleaned our mangrove snapper which made for some great fish tacos that night. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for a unique Everglades experience!

    Michael S. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Had a blast with Steven would definitely go again!

    Trevor P. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Saltwater Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    David Larson was a great captain and worked his ass off. we caught our limit of four different species of fish. Good day !

    Dennis W. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Key West Lobstering - 24’ Yellowfin

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing trip! Lots of laughs and tons of fish! We even got our target fish which was tarpon. Captain mark is great and we will definitely use him again.

    Angela F. | September 6, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain David did an amazing job I asked for an out of season Tarpon trip . He got hooked up after a few spots. Then we went to deep water and caught a nice Mutton Snapper.

    Larry F. | September 3, 2024

    Trip: Key West Tarpon Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    It was a great trip. Three of us fished comfortably for a half day. Mother Nature provided the fish, and Nick provided a great atmosphere. Easy to talk to and gave some good local recommendations, will look to book with Nick again in the future.

    Michael L. | September 2, 2024

    Trip: Reel Salty Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Jimmy took great care of us and helped my son and his friend create the memory of a lifetime!

    Steve B. | September 2, 2024

    Trip: Early PCBeach trip

  • ★★★★★
    Antonio was awesome! Got us on some good spots and limited out! Great time!

    Stephen D. | August 31, 2024

    Trip: Lobstering Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip, would recommend without hesitation!

    Steven B. | August 31, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Live Action Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Jeremy was phenomenal and it was an amazing day!

    Jacob C. | August 31, 2024

    Trip: Scalloping

  • ★★★★★
    Antonio IV was the best guide ever best lobster trip ever our guide was right in the water with us and really took time to show us how to catch the lobster will definitely book more trips when we are in the keys definitely need to use them can’t say enough how awesome our experience was

    Jose V. | August 30, 2024

    Trip: Lobstering Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Very professional Captain. Very helpful and knowledgeable at his profession.

    Michael A. | August 28, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Rod Bending Action

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Hunter & his guide, Valerie were awesome. Florida weather tried to rain on our parade but they made it happen. We went home with a great dinner & that's all we could've hoped for. We will definitely book them again on our future trips!

    Brittney S. | August 26, 2024

    Trip: Key West Lobstering - 30’ Seahunter

  • ★★★★★
    My families trip with Captain John was awesome. John is a humble, hardworking, easy going, chill, dude and fit right in with our families vibe. He was great with our 5 year old son and answered all of his many fishing questions. John made it clear that between the time of year and conditions that day we would have to really work at it to get anything. That’s exactly what we did and we ended up catching a good amount of fish. Most importantly our 5 year old son, who is obsessed with fishing, had the time of his life and caught fish he’s never seen before. 5 stars, highly recommend. If you have a small group this is the charter to go on!

    Jacob D. | August 25, 2024

    Trip: Full Day Private Fishing Charter

  • ★★★★★
    My grandkids loved it. Captain Christian was a real professional with the patience of a saint for my two novice anglers!

    Fred R. | August 25, 2024

    Trip: Fishing Fun in the Florida Sun

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip

    Mike R. | August 24, 2024

    Trip: Peacocks and Exotic Fishing Trips

  • ★★★★★
    Outstanding! Worked hard to find fish, great adventure

    Mark H. | August 24, 2024

    Trip: Chasing Monsters - 24’ Pathfinder

The Best Places to Fish in Florida

Other Types of Fishing in Florida

Other Types of Hunting in Florida

How are fishing conditions in Florida?

View Florida Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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See All Inshore Trips in Florida