Damn Good Nearshore Fishing Charters In Florida Bay

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

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Recently Booked Nearshore Fishing Charters In Florida Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Bank And Bight Backcountry

100% (3)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
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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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Back Country Bonanza

100% (3)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Lobster Free Dive Trip

100% (15)
26 ft 1 - 12 People From $850
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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Big Shark Trip

100% (10)
24 ft 1 - 12 People From $650
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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Marathon

Top Notch Tarpon Trips

100% (3)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
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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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Everglades Inshore Trip

100% (10)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $650

Top Types of Nearshore Trips in Florida Bay

Top Species for Nearshore Fishing in Florida Bay

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More Nearshore Fishing Charters In Florida Bay

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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Marathon

Sportfishing Half Day

100% (3)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $925
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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

SALTWATER SAFARI REEF TRIP

94% (16)
1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Fishing Experience

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $675
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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Everglades Inshore Trip

100% (10)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Marathon

Top Notch Tarpon Trips

100% (3)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Big Shark Trip

100% (10)
24 ft 1 - 12 People From $650
See All Nearshore Trips in Florida Bay

Other Trips in Florida Bay

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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Flats And Backcountry

100% (5)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Homestead

Full Day - Everglades National Park

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
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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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Marathon

Top Notch Offshore Pelagics

100% (3)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Marathon

Top Notch Swordfish Seeking

100% (3)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,900
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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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Tarpon On Natural Bait

100% (5)
17 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Inshore Fishing Fun!

100% (5)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600

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Everything to Know About Booking a Florida Bay nearshore fishing charter

What are the best nearshore fishing charters in Florida Bay?

Why should I book a nearshore fishing charter in Florida Bay with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 9 nearshore trips in Florida Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Bank and Bight Backcountry guided by Jon-Paul, Back Country Bonanza guided by Eric, and SALTWATER SAFARI REEF TRIP guided by Eric.

Our guides in Florida Bay are rated a 4.92 out of 5 based on 3671 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 nearshore guides / fishing lessons in Florida Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly nearshore guides in Florida Bay.

What types of nearshore fishing charters are common in Florida Bay?

The most commonly sought after species for nearshore fishing are: 1. mangrove snapper, 2. jack crevalle, 3. redfish, 4. tarpon, and 5. snook.

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

How much do Florida Bay nearshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for nearshore fishing in Florida Bay can range anywhere from about $750 to $2,350, but the average price for a half day trip for nearshore fishing in Florida Bay is $1,143. The average price for a full day trip for nearshore fishing in Florida Bay is $1,601.

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 nearshore fishing in Florida Bay?

The most popular season for nearshore fishing in Florida Bay is summer, and most anglers book their trips 12 days in advance.

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

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

What is nearshore fishing in Florida Bay all about?

Nearshore fishing in Florida Bay offers anglers a unique and exciting fishing experience amidst the scenic beauty of the Florida Keys. Situated between the southern tip of the Florida mainland and the Keys, Florida Bay is renowned for its shallow flats, mangrove islands, and pristine waters, providing ideal habitat for a variety of fish species year-round. Anglers can target prized catches such as bonefish, tarpon, permit, snook, redfish, and trout, among others, making it a premier destination for both recreational and sport fishermen looking to test their skills in one of Florida's most diverse marine environments.

One of the highlights of nearshore fishing in Florida Bay is its abundant fishing opportunities and the chance to explore different habitats. Whether fishing from a flats boat, kayak, or wading in shallow waters, anglers have access to a myriad of fishing spots and techniques. The bay's clear, shallow waters make it ideal for sight fishing, allowing anglers to spot fish cruising the flats and tailing in search of prey, creating thrilling opportunities for anglers to hone their skills and experience the excitement of catching trophy fish in a spectacular setting.

Beyond the thrill of the catch, nearshore fishing in Florida Bay allows anglers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of the Florida Keys. With its breathtaking views of turquoise waters, mangrove-lined shorelines, and vibrant marine life, every fishing trip becomes an opportunity to connect with the region's unique ecosystem and enjoy encounters with local wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, and various bird species. Whether casting lines at sunrise, exploring secluded fishing spots, or simply enjoying the serene ambiance of the bay, nearshore fishing in Florida Bay promises a memorable blend of adventure, relaxation, and appreciation for the natural wonders of the Florida Keys.

What are the most popular months to go nearshore fishing in Florida Bay?

Florida Bay, located within Everglades National Park, offers anglers a unique and rewarding nearshore fishing experience year-round. Spring kicks off the fishing season as warmer temperatures stimulate the activity of various fish species near the bay's shallow flats, mangrove islands, and seagrass beds. Anglers can target prized catches such as bonefish, tarpon, and snook, which are abundant in these nutrient-rich waters during this time. The calm mornings and mild temperatures of spring create optimal conditions for casting lines and exploring the pristine and diverse ecosystem that thrives in Florida Bay.

Summer brings warmer temperatures and increased fishing opportunities nearshore in Florida Bay. This season is ideal for targeting species like redfish, spotted seatrout, and mangrove snapper, which thrive in the bay's expansive flats and channels. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times for fishing as the cooler temperatures and quieter waters attract these fish closer to shore. Anglers can enjoy the scenic beauty of Florida Bay while pursuing their favorite catches, taking advantage of the longer daylight hours for extended fishing adventures.

Fall in Florida Bay continues to provide excellent fishing conditions as cooler temperatures stimulate increased fish activity. Redfish and snook remain popular targets, often found in deeper channels and around mangrove shorelines. This season is also known for productive fishing for snapper and grouper, which can be found feeding near structure and along the grassy edges. Anglers can appreciate the serene surroundings and coastal views of Florida Bay in fall, making it a perfect time to enjoy the thrill of hooking into strong and elusive fish species amidst the tranquil waters and vibrant natural scenery.

What techniques are popular for nearshore fishing in Florida Bay?

Nearshore fishing in Florida Bay, situated between the Florida Keys and the mainland, offers anglers a unique and diverse fishing experience in its shallow, brackish waters. This bay is renowned for its rich marine life, including species such as bonefish, tarpon, snook, redfish, permit, and various types of snapper and grouper. Each species requires specific techniques and strategies. Bonefish, for example, are often targeted on the expansive flats using lightweight tackle and small, shrimp-like flies presented with delicate casts to avoid spooking these wary fish.

One prevalent technique for nearshore fishing in Florida Bay is flats fishing, especially popular for targeting species like bonefish, tarpon, and permit. Anglers pole or drift quietly over the shallow flats, scanning the clear waters for signs of feeding fish. Precision casting and presenting baits or lures with natural movements are essential to entice strikes from these elusive species. Another effective method is sight fishing for redfish and snook around mangrove shorelines and oyster bars. Anglers use live bait such as pilchards or pinfish, or artificial lures like jerkbaits and swimbaits, to tempt these predatory fish.

Understanding local conditions such as tidal movements, water clarity, and seasonal fish migrations is crucial for successful nearshore fishing in Florida Bay. Anglers often rely on local knowledge from experienced guides or join fishing communities to stay informed about productive spots and effective techniques. Conservation efforts play a vital role in preserving the bay's delicate ecosystem, ensuring sustainable fishing opportunities for future generations of anglers to cherish in this scenic and biodiverse area of the Florida Keys.

What species are popular for nearshore fishing in Florida Bay?

Nearshore fishing in Florida Bay, nestled within the expansive Florida Everglades, offers anglers an exceptional variety of species to target in its pristine and diverse ecosystem. One of the most coveted catches is the snook, known for its powerful strikes and acrobatic leaps. Snook are commonly found near mangrove shorelines, oyster bars, and along tidal creeks where they ambush prey such as mullet and shrimp. They can be targeted year-round using live bait such as pilchards or pinfish, as well as with artificial lures like jerkbaits and topwater plugs. Anglers often find success fishing for snook during early morning or late evening when these predatory fish are actively feeding.

Redfish, or red drum, are another prominent species in Florida Bay celebrated for their bronze scales and strong fighting ability. Redfish are typically found near shallow flats, grass beds, and around mangrove roots where they feed on crabs and small fish. They can be caught year-round using live bait such as crabs or mullet, as well as with artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics. Redfish provide anglers with thrilling battles and are highly valued for their resilience and aggressive behavior when hooked.

Tarpon are also abundant in Florida Bay and provide anglers with exhilarating fishing experiences. These iconic fish are known for their large size, impressive aerial displays, and challenging fights. Tarpon are often found near channels, flats, and deep-water structures where they feed on baitfish such as mullet and pilchards. They can be targeted using live bait such as crabs or threadfin herring, as well as with artificial lures like swimbaits and bucktail jigs. Tarpon fishing in Florida Bay is especially popular during the spring and summer months when these migratory fish arrive in large numbers, offering anglers the opportunity to test their skills against one of the most prized game fish in the region.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Eric was great we were catching fish the entire time. I wanted to catch a tarpon and in 10 minutes we had landed one. Exceptional trip tarpon snook and grouper. I would recommend to anyone who wants to catch fish

    Walter L. | October 21, 2024

    Trip: Back Country Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great trip with Capt Dylan. He worked hard for us and he delivered. Super perfessional, easy going and fun. Couldn’t have asked for a better time! We will definitely be back!

    Gary G. | July 10, 2024

    Trip: SALTWATER SAFARI REEF TRIP

  • ★★★★★
    Some times you are fortunate to meet people that leave a deep impression an impregnation on you. Captain Mark is one of these rare persons. I was fortunate to go fishing with him today and we had a blast. He is so kind, so full of knowledge, that I do recommend going fishing with him. His repeated actions around the wounded warrior project are a tribute to his care about his peers and good people in general.

    Cornelissen M. | May 19, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Bill was great. Good dude. Knowledgeable and easy to talk with. We got a Tarpon in 1st 15 min. Great experience

    Al G. | May 7, 2024

    Trip: Top Notch Tarpon Trips

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic trip! We had a wonderful time!

    Diane S. | May 3, 2024

    Trip: Bank and Bight Backcountry

  • ★★★★★
    If you want to be inspired to be a better person, laugh, and catch the most fish out of the Islamorada marina Captain Mark is the way to go. Thanks Mark for a great day. Also thank you for your service to our country and continued surrport of disabled veterans!

    Brian S. | April 6, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Bill was outstanding. He found the fish for us and we caught yellow tail snappers, strawberry grouper, and blue bonnets. Will definitely use him again.

    Kathy S. | February 23, 2024

    Trip: Sportfishing Half Day

  • ★★★★★
    Very good trip. Well worth it. Slow start on the bite, but Capt was persistent on got us on some good fishing. Great guy, hope to do it again.

    David M. | February 23, 2024

    Trip: SALTWATER SAFARI REEF TRIP

  • ★★★★★
    Great guide and a great man. My wife and I went out for 6 hours, caught tarpon, snook and snapper. was exactly what I was looking for.

    Tom G. | February 23, 2024

    Trip: Back Country Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    John Paul knew where the fish were and what they wanted to eat. We had a good day on the water with lots of spotted trout, some trevally, and a mangrove snapper. No snook or tarpon this early in the season (late Feb).

    Bernard C. | February 21, 2024

    Trip: Bank and Bight Backcountry

  • ★★★★★
    Fishing trip was a lot of fun, Captain Dylan was a true gem. Captain was very informative on fish and fishing techniques, not to mention the number of different species he helped us catch. Captain was a lot of fun while still being very professional, would definitely charter with Dylan and Blackwater Fishing Charters again.

    Kevin O. | January 22, 2024

    Trip: SALTWATER SAFARI REEF TRIP

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip!! Captain Mark is a great guide. Would love to do it again.

    Nancy J. | January 15, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Mark was awesome!!! Highly recommend booking a tour with him.

    Mark N. | January 1, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Bill was awesome with our kids, and we caught a ton of fish, would definitely do this again.

    Mike S. | December 30, 2023

    Trip: Sportfishing Half Day

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Mark run a great guide business. Boat was awesome and, his gear worked flawlessly. All day we were laughing and catching fish. He showed us a great time on our Christmas adventure. Thanks again from the Minnesota Cady bunch Captain Mark. You made memories non of us will soon forget.

    Timothy D. | December 26, 2023

    Trip: Big Shark Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Perfect captain for me. He was just personal enough, but didn’t talk your head off. He was focused on fishing and helped us make the most out of an overcast day.

    David R. | July 19, 2023

    Trip: Back Country Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    We had a Great time fishing with Captain Mark! He was awesome!

    Derek B. | June 19, 2023

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Mark was great and super accommodating! My two college aged sons had an awesome experience and caught plenty of fish! I highly recommend Captain Mark! It felt like fishing with an old friend!

    Matt C. | June 1, 2023

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Trip was great capt john Paul was like meeting an old friend.

    Jeffrey M. | April 8, 2023

    Trip: Bank and Bight Backcountry

Other Types of Fishing in Florida Bay

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See All Nearshore Trips in Florida Bay