Expert-Guided St. Marks Inshore Fishing Adventure

Reel in the Big Ones: St Marks Inshore Fishing

Get ready to wet a line in some of Florida's most productive inshore waters! King Charters is serving up a 6-hour private fishing trip that's tailor-made for newcomers to the sport. We'll be cruising the rich waters of Apalachee Bay, right off Crawfordville, where the fish are always biting and the scenery never disappoints. Don't sweat the small stuff - we've got all the gear, bait, and licenses covered. Whether you're after speckled trout, redfish, or maybe even a hard-fighting jack, our seasoned guides know exactly where to put you on the fish. And if you've got redfish fever, we can make that the focus of your day. It's just you and your crew (up to 3 people) out there, so get ready for some quality time on the water.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel the excitement building. The calm waters of Apalachee Bay are perfect for beginners - no seasickness worries here! We'll cruise to some of our favorite honey holes, spots where the fish seem to always be hungry. Your guide will get you set up with rods, reels, and the right bait for the day. Don't know how to cast? No problem! We'll show you the ropes and have you fishing like a pro in no time. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, ospreys, and maybe even a manatee as we move between spots. The fishing action can be hot and heavy one minute, then slow the next - that's fishing for you! But with 6 hours on the water, you'll have plenty of chances to feel that tug on your line.

Techniques for Inshore Success

Inshore fishing is all about versatility, and we've got a few tricks up our sleeves to put fish in the boat. We might start off drifting live shrimp under a popping cork - a killer technique for speckled trout and redfish. If the tide's right, we could switch to sight fishing, scanning the flats for those telltale signs of feeding reds. For the jacks and mackerel, we might break out some topwater lures and watch those exciting surface strikes. And if the cobia are around, get ready for some serious action with live bait or big jigs. Throughout the day, your guide will be right there, offering tips on casting, setting the hook, and playing fish. By the time we head back to the dock, you'll have a solid foundation in inshore fishing techniques that'll serve you well on future trips.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Black Drum: These bruisers are the powerhouses of the inshore world. They might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but what they lack in looks, they make up for in fight. Black drum can grow to over 100 pounds, though we usually target the "puppy drum" in the 5-30 pound range. They love crustaceans, so we often use shrimp or crab to entice them. Look for them around oyster bars and bridge pilings - when you hook one, hold on tight!

Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these are the bread and butter of inshore fishing in Florida. They're abundant, tasty, and put up a great fight on light tackle. Trout are ambush predators, so we often find them around grass flats and dropoffs. They're suckers for a well-presented live shrimp or a soft plastic jig. The "gator" trout (over 20 inches) are prized catches that'll test your skills.

Redfish: If there's one fish that defines inshore fishing in Florida, it's the redfish. These copper-colored beauties are known for their hard runs and their distinctive black spot near the tail. We can target them in various ways - sight fishing on the flats, working docks and mangroves, or even blind-casting in deeper holes. Fall is prime time for big bull reds, but we catch them year-round. There's nothing quite like watching a red's tail stick up out of the water as it roots for crabs in the shallows.

Crevalle Jack: Want a fish that'll make your arms burn? Meet the jack crevalle. These fish are pure muscle and can turn on a dime. They often hunt in schools, so when you find one, you might find a dozen. Jacks love fast-moving lures, so we might throw some topwater plugs or speed-jig for them. They're not great eating, but pound for pound, they're some of the hardest fighting fish in the bay.

Cobia: While not as common as our other target species, cobia are always a welcome surprise. These curious fish sometimes follow rays or sharks, so keep your eyes peeled for dark shadows in the water. Cobia grow big - 30-50 pounders aren't uncommon - and they fight like crazy. They'll test both your strength and your patience. If we're lucky enough to spot one, get ready for some heart-pounding action!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the inshore waters around Crawfordville. Maybe it's the way the sun rises over Apalachee Bay, painting the sky in pinks and oranges. Or perhaps it's the thrill of watching a redfish tail in skinny water, knowing you've got a shot at a trophy catch. Our regulars tell us it's a combination of great fishing, knowledgeable guides, and that laid-back Florida vibe that keeps them coming back year after year. Whether you're a total newbie or you've been fishing these waters for decades, there's always something new to learn and experience. And let's not forget the fish stories - every trip adds a new chapter to your personal fishing legend.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on the water and see what Apalachee Bay has to offer, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our calendar fills up fast, especially during peak seasons. Remember, this is a private charter, so it's just you and your group (up to 3 people) with the full attention of your guide. We'll take care of all the details - from licenses to gear to finding the fish - so all you have to do is show up ready for a good time. Whether you're looking to learn the basics, hone your skills, or just enjoy a relaxing day on the water, we've got you covered. Don't let another fishing season slip by without experiencing the inshore action of Crawfordville. Give King Charters a call and let's get your next fishing adventure on the books!