Jacksonville Beach Fishing Charters
Jacksonville Beach fishing charters work the nearshore wrecks, tidal inlets, and offshore reefs for redfish, king mackerel, cobia, and seasonal sailfish.
Top Rated Charters in Jacksonville Beach
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Jacksonville Beach, FL Fishing Guide
Jacksonville Beach gives anglers quick access to both the Intracoastal Waterway and the open Atlantic, making it a prime spot for a mix of inshore and offshore trips. Most charters launch from St. Johns County Ocean Pier, Mayport, or the ramps along the ICW, depending on whether they’re chasing nearshore or backwater species. Inshore, you’ll find redfish, speckled trout, and flounder working the grass lines, docks, and oyster bars, with trips often running just minutes from the dock. Offshore runs range from 5–10 miles for king mackerel and cobia on the nearshore reefs to 25–40 miles out for mahi, sailfish, and bottom species like snapper and grouper.
Half-day charters are popular for targeting inshore species on light tackle or for quick nearshore kingfish trips in season. Full-day and extended offshore trips focus on trolling the bluewater edge or dropping bait on deep ledges and wrecks. The seasonal bite shifts with water temperature—winter brings strong sheepshead fishing near structure, spring fires up the kingfish and cobia migration, summer is prime for pelagics and snapper, and fall often brings the best bull redfish action of the year in the inlets.
Techniques vary: live bait rigs for kingfish and cobia, jigging and bottom fishing for reef species, and trolling spreads offshore for mahi and sailfish. Fly anglers often work the flats and creek mouths for redfish at low tide. When conditions allow, surf fishing off Jacksonville Beach can produce pompano, whiting, and the occasional tarpon cruising the troughs. Nearby options include the St. Johns River for freshwater catfish and bass, or running north toward Amelia Island for more inshore variety. Jacksonville Beach fishing blends short-run accessibility with serious offshore potential, giving visiting anglers a full range of choices right out of the harbor.
Fishing Seasons in Jacksonville Beach
Spring (March–May)
Warmer weather triggers bait movement, and redfish, speckled trout, and flounder feed heavily in the ICW creeks and oyster bars. King mackerel begin showing up on the nearshore reefs, with cobia often riding rays along the beaches. Offshore trolling can pick up mahi on temperature breaks. Many charters split time between inshore and nearshore waters this time of year, making half-day and three-quarter trips popular. Live pogies and mullet are go-to baits, while artificials like soft plastics and suspending twitchbaits can produce well inshore.
Summer (June–August)
Pelagic action is at its peak offshore, with mahi, sailfish, and wahoo all possible on longer runs. Nearshore reefs hold steady kingfish and cobia, while the surf and pier action heats up with pompano, jacks, and tarpon. Inshore anglers work early and late to beat the heat, targeting redfish in deeper holes and trout along drop-offs. Live bait slow-trolled or drifted is effective nearshore, while bottom fishing with cut bait finds grouper and snapper in deeper structure. Afternoon storms are common, so most offshore trips leave early to take advantage of calmer morning conditions.
Fall (September–November)
The fall mullet run brings heavy feeding activity, especially for bull redfish in the inlets and along the beach. Kingfish remain strong until water temperatures drop, and flounder fishing improves around jetties and bridge pilings. Offshore, wahoo and tuna become more common on the ledges. Many charters focus on heavy inshore tackle for reds, throwing live mullet or chunk baits into the current. The mix of inshore and offshore options makes fall one of the most versatile times to fish Jacksonville Beach.
Winter (December–February)
Colder months push many species into deeper channels and nearshore structure. Sheepshead fishing peaks around rock piles, jetties, and reefs, and black drum move into the St. Johns River. Offshore days can still be productive with snapper, grouper, and the occasional winter wahoo. Inshore charters slow down presentations, using shrimp or fiddler crabs for sheepshead and drum. This is a great season for anglers who prefer less boat traffic and cooler conditions.
Gamefish in Jacksonville Beach
- Redfish – 18–40+ inches. Found year-round in ICW creeks, flats, and inlets; live mullet or crabs work best.
- Speckled Trout – 14–25 inches. Caught in deeper channels and grass edges in spring and fall on soft plastics or shrimp.
- Flounder – 14–24 inches. Ambush feeders around docks, pilings, and sandy drop-offs; live mud minnows are reliable.
- King Mackerel – 10–40 pounds. Nearshore reefs in summer; slow-troll live bait on wire stinger rigs.
- Cobia – 20–60 pounds. Migrates along beaches in spring; sight-cast to fish following rays or buoys.
- Sailfish – 40–70 pounds. Found offshore in summer; troll rigged ballyhoo along temperature breaks.
- Sheepshead – 2–8 pounds. Winter peak; caught on fiddler crabs at jetties and rock piles.
Jacksonville Beach Fishing FAQs
What are the main launch points for fishing trips in Jacksonville Beach?
Most charters launch from the St. Johns County Ocean Pier area, Mayport ramps, or Intracoastal Waterway access points depending on target species and weather.
How long are typical fishing charters in Jacksonville Beach?
Half-day trips run 4–5 hours for inshore and nearshore fishing, while full-day trips run 8–10 hours for offshore runs to deeper reefs and ledges.
What gear is usually provided by Jacksonville Beach charters?
Most provide all rods, reels, bait, and tackle, along with ice and coolers for your catch. Specialty gear like fly rods is often available on request.
Do I need a fishing license for a charter trip?
When fishing on a licensed charter vessel in Florida, you’re covered under the captain’s license and do not need to purchase your own.
When is the best time of year to fish Jacksonville Beach?
Spring through fall offers the widest range of species, with pelagics offshore in summer and bull redfish in the fall. Winter is best for sheepshead and drum.
What techniques work best inshore around Jacksonville Beach?
Light tackle with live shrimp, mullet, or soft plastics works well for redfish and trout. For flounder, slow-moving bait along the bottom is most effective.
Can large groups be accommodated?
Yes, several local captains run multi-passenger boats or can arrange multiple vessels for larger parties.
Are there night fishing options in Jacksonville Beach?
Some guides offer evening trips targeting flounder, trout, and bull redfish in the inlets and lighted dock areas
Is surf fishing good at Jacksonville Beach?
Yes, the surf can produce pompano, whiting, bluefish, and even tarpon in summer. Light spinning gear with sand fleas or shrimp is common.