Rates

4 Hours – $450

6 Hours – $600

8 Hours – $700

All rates are for 1-4 anglers.

Please refer to our Reservation Policies page prior to booking your trip.

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Light tackle, inshore, flats, backcountry, and beach fishing at its finest.

Whether you are after acrobatic Snook, bruiser Redfish, Gator Speckled Trout, or even the fast and furious Pompano, inshore fishing is sure to offer just what your looking for.

The term “inshore” (also referred to as “back bay,” “backwater” and “bay fishing”) in Southwest Florida describes the inland bodies of water, such as bays, creeks, harbors, and lagoons, that are situated between the barrier Islands and the mainland of Florida. These shallow waters, often averaging less than 5 feet in depth, remain calm on even the windiest of days. A major plus for those feeling that they may be a bit less seaworthy, or for those who are just less comfortable with being in open water.

Inshore fishing is not just about finding calm conditions. The shallow, fertile waters that make up the world famous Charlotte Harbor area are all part of one of the largest saltwater estuaries in North America. These waters are virtually teeming with life. The thick turtle and manatee grasses, boundless shallow oyster flats, and thousands of miles of mangrove shorelines help support an entire ecosystem ranging from shrimp, crabs, and mullet to Snook, Tarpon, Redfish, Trout, sharks, and so much more.

Charlotte Harbor & Lemon Bay

One of the best things about inshore fishing is that due to the shallow water (we often fish in less than 3 feet) there is seldom a need for more than 10lb test rigged on a light action spinning rod. But light tackle and shallow water doesn’t mean small fish. With some of the strongest and most sporting fish found anywhere, the drag burning light tackle action of inshore fishing has something great to offer even the most demanding angler.

The concerted conservation efforts of various public and private organizations and the implementations of strict seasons, size, and bag limits has brought about a resurgence in the quality and quantity of inshore fish that should pose as a model for conservation oriented societies everywhere.

Southwest Florida now enjoys landings of quality fish throughout the range of targeted inshore species that was virtually unheard of through the eighties, nineties, and early twenty-first century. What this means is not only will you experience some of the best fishing for species such as Snook, Trout, Redfish, and Pompano to come about in the last thirty years but that your children and grandchildren will be able to enjoy the same in the future.

Even with conservation in mind, there is a lot to be said for a good, fresh, self-caught fish dinner. Though there are seasons, bag, and size limits governing just about all inshore species, that doesn’t mean you have to forego the enjoyment of eating your catch. Having such a long list of good eating targets to choose from means that even during the most strict seasons, you will have no problem returning to the dock with an ample supply of fresh fish to feed the whole family (and even the neighbors) a fantastic fish dinner!

On inshore trips Capt. Chris takes into account the season, weather, recent fishing patterns, as well as the desires and skill levels of his clients to employ the most effective fishing method possible. This will vary wildly to include both live and artificial baits used in a variety of ways. One thing is for sure, if they are out there Capt. Chris will ensure that anglers of all skill levels and abilities will catch them!

Commonly Caught Species*

Snook
Redfish
Speckled Trout
Pompano
Mackeral
Jacks
Snapper
Flounder
Ladyfish
Sheepshead
Black Drum

*Captain Chris makes his living as a fishing guide, not a magician. Please remember, there are many factors which will impact species availability–some of which we have control over, and some we may not. The list above represent species commonly caught on this type of charter. Season, tide, weather, angler experience, tackle and time invested all contribute to the availability of our targeted species.

Tackle & Techniques

Light Tackle, Live and Artificial Bait

Because we encounter so many different species during the changing seasons and conditions while inshore fishing, tackle and techniques will vary wildly throughout the year.