Eastpoint Fishing Charters
Top Rated Charters in Eastpoint
Eastpoint fishing charters run Apalachicola Bay’s grass flats, oyster bars, and nearshore Gulf waters for redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and seasonal tripletail.
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Eastpoint, FL Fishing Guide
Eastpoint sits on the mainland just across the bridge from St. George Island, giving anglers quick access to Apalachicola Bay’s productive inshore waters and the Gulf of Mexico. Most trips leave from the public boat ramp at Eastpoint or from private docks along US-98. Inshore charters work the bay’s grass flats, oyster bars, and tidal creeks for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. The bay is sheltered, so even in choppy Gulf conditions, fishing here stays productive. A short run through the passes puts you on the Gulf’s nearshore reefs, wrecks, and sandbars where Spanish mackerel, tripletail, cobia, and even tarpon show in the warmer months.
Half-day trips are popular for inshore light-tackle fishing, while full-day runs can combine bay and Gulf fishing. Specialty trips include sight-fishing for tripletail in summer or targeting big bull reds in the fall. The fishery changes with the seasons: spring brings bait migrations that fire up the trout bite; summer offers the widest variety, from inshore species to nearshore pelagics; fall focuses on big schools of redfish; and winter keeps steady trout and sheepshead action in deeper bay channels.
Techniques range from casting soft plastics and topwaters over grass, to soaking live shrimp around oyster bars, to trolling spoons for Spanish mackerel. Fly anglers find plenty of opportunities for sight-casting to cruising reds in clear shallows. Nearby options include running west toward St. Vincent Sound or east toward Carrabelle for similar inshore habitat and less pressure. Whether you stay in the bay or make a Gulf run, Eastpoint puts you in the middle of one of Florida’s most productive and uncrowded coastal fisheries.
Spring
Spring in Eastpoint kicks off with warming water and baitfish moving into Apalachicola Bay. Speckled trout fire up over the grass flats, and redfish work the oyster bars and creek mouths. Spanish mackerel start showing in the passes, and tripletail can be spotted near buoys and crab traps. Many charters focus on drifting live shrimp or soft plastics across the flats, while those targeting mackerel will troll small spoons near the channels. Winds can be breezy, but the bay offers plenty of protected water to fish.
Fishing Seasons in Eastpoint
Spring (March–May)
Spring in Eastpoint kicks off with warming water and baitfish moving into Apalachicola Bay. Speckled trout fire up over the grass flats, and redfish work the oyster bars and creek mouths. Spanish mackerel start showing in the passes, and tripletail can be spotted near buoys and crab traps. Many charters focus on drifting live shrimp or soft plastics across the flats, while those targeting mackerel will troll small spoons near the channels. Winds can be breezy, but the bay offers plenty of protected water to fish.
Summer (June–August)
Summer brings the peak variety, with trout and reds still steady inshore and Spanish mackerel, tripletail, cobia, and tarpon just outside the passes. Morning trips beat the heat, and sight-fishing for tripletail is a local highlight. Guides often mix in drifting the flats early, then running nearshore to chase pelagics. Live bait is king—shrimp for inshore species, pinfish and menhaden for bigger fish. Afternoon storms are common, so charters keep an eye on the radar.
Fall (September–November)
Fall is redfish season in Eastpoint, with big bulls pushing into the bay and gathering near the passes. Speckled trout school up on deeper edges, and flounder fishing improves around structure. Tripletail linger offshore through early fall, and Spanish mackerel remain until water temperatures drop. Many trips anchor near current seams with live bait or jig the deeper holes. The cooler weather and lighter crowds make this a prime time for anglers.
Winter (December–February)
Winter fishing centers on deeper bay channels and oyster bars. Speckled trout stack up in holes, and sheepshead move in around docks, pilings, and rocky structure. Redfish are still catchable, especially on sunny afternoons when they warm up in the shallows. Most charters focus on live shrimp or slow-working jigs to match the fish’s slower metabolism. With mild winter temperatures compared to much of the country, Eastpoint offers year-round fishing without the crowds.
Gamefish in Eastpoint
- Redfish – 18–40 inches. Found year-round on oyster bars and flats; peak in fall with big bulls in the passes.
- Speckled Trout – 14–26 inches. Over grass flats in spring and summer; deeper holes in winter.
- Flounder – 12–20 inches. Caught near structure and sandy drop-offs, best in fall.
- Tripletail – 5–20 pounds. Summer sight-fishing near buoys, crab traps, and surface debris.
- Spanish Mackerel – 1–5 pounds. Caught trolling spoons near passes in spring through fall.
- Cobia – 15–50 pounds. Spring and summer near buoys, markers, and nearshore reefs.
- Sheepshead – 2–6 pounds. Winter around pilings, docks, and rocky structure.
- Tarpon – 50–150 pounds. Summer near the passes and Gulf beaches, mostly on live bait or flies.
Eastpoint Fishing FAQs
What are the main launch points in Eastpoint?
Most charters launch from the public boat ramp in Eastpoint along US-98 or from private docks nearby. The ramp gives quick access to Apalachicola Bay and the passes to the Gulf.
How long are typical fishing trips?
Half-day trips usually run four hours and target inshore species in the bay. Full-day trips can last eight hours, allowing for both inshore and nearshore fishing.
Is fishing gear provided on Eastpoint charters?
Yes, most captains provide rods, reels, bait, tackle, and a fishing license. You can bring your own gear if preferred.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Eastpoint?
If you’re fishing with a licensed charter captain, your fishing license is covered. Private anglers need a Florida saltwater fishing license.
When is the best time to fish in Eastpoint?
Fall offers some of the best redfish action, while summer brings the widest variety of species, including nearshore pelagics. Spring and winter are also productive, especially for trout and sheepshead.
What fishing techniques are common in Eastpoint?
Light-tackle casting, live bait fishing, trolling, and sight-fishing are the most common. Fly fishing is also popular for redfish on the flats.
What species can we expect on a summer trip?
Summer trips can bring speckled trout, redfish, Spanish mackerel, tripletail, cobia, and even tarpon if conditions are right.
Can families with kids fish in Eastpoint?
Yes, many charters offer family-friendly trips focusing on steady action with trout, reds, and mackerel in protected waters.
Are there specialty trips from Eastpoint?
Yes, guides offer sight-fishing for tripletail, bull redfish hunts in the fall, and tarpon trips in summer. Nearshore reef trips are also available when the weather allows.