Ready to kick off your day with some rod-bending action? Our Inshore AM Charters are the perfect way to start your morning on the Gulf Coast. We'll hit the water at sunrise when the fish are hungry and the coastal scenery is at its most stunning. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, this 6-hour trip offers plenty of opportunities to reel in some of the Gulf's most prized inshore species.
As soon as we push off from the dock, we're in prime fishing territory. The Gulf Coast's inshore waters are teeming with redfish, speckled trout, and flounder - the inshore slam trifecta that keeps anglers coming back year after year. We'll cruise through grass flats, mangrove shorelines, and oyster bars, using light tackle and live bait to entice these hard-fighting fish. The morning bite is often the best of the day, so be ready for some fast action!
Don't sweat it if you're new to inshore fishing - we've got you covered. We'll set you up with all the gear you need and show you the ropes. We typically use light spinning gear with 10-20 lb test line, perfect for feeling those subtle bites and battling fish in shallow water. We'll teach you how to work a popping cork for trout, sight-cast to tailing redfish, or bounce a jig along the bottom for flounder. By the end of the trip, you'll be casting like a pro and maybe even outfishing the captain (but don't tell him I said that).
Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewel of inshore fishing. Known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot on the tail, redfish love to cruise the shallows looking for crabs and baitfish. We target them year-round, but fall is prime time when big schools move into the bays. Nothing beats the sight of a redfish's tail sticking up out of the water as it roots around for food - it's heart-pounding stuff!
Speckled Trout: Also called spotted seatrout, these fish are the bread and butter of Gulf Coast inshore fishing. They're aggressive feeders and great eating, making them a favorite among locals and visitors alike. We catch them over grass flats and around structure using live shrimp or artificial lures. The "gator" trout (the big ones) can top 5 pounds and put up an awesome fight on light tackle.
Flounder: These odd-looking flatfish might not win any beauty contests, but they more than make up for it on the dinner table. Flounder like to ambush their prey from the bottom, so we'll target them around drop-offs and structure. They can be tricky to hook, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be addicted to the distinctive "thump" of a flounder bite.
Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes and impressive set of choppers, sheepshead are a unique target species. They're notorious bait stealers, so hooking one takes a bit of finesse. We find them around pilings, rocks, and other structure where they feed on barnacles and crustaceans. They're excellent eating and put up a surprisingly good fight for their size.
There's something special about being on the water as the sun comes up. The air is crisp, the water's usually calm, and the fish are ready to feed. Plus, you'll beat the midday heat and still have time for other activities in the afternoon. It's the perfect way to start your day, whether you're on vacation or just playing hooky from work (we won't tell).
We've got all the fishing gear covered, but there are a few things you'll want to bring along: - Sun protection is a must. Bring a hat, polarized sunglasses (they help you see fish in the water), and plenty of sunscreen. - It can get chilly in the morning, so a light jacket or long-sleeve shirt is a good idea. - Don't forget your drinks and snacks. We recommend bringing water and some high-energy snacks to keep you fueled up. - A camera or smartphone for photos - you'll want to document your catches! - Your fishing license (we can help you get a temporary one if needed).
One of the cool things about inshore fishing is how the environment changes with the tides and seasons. In the cooler months, we might find redfish tailing in super shallow water, while summer might have us drifting deep grass flats for trout. Every trip is different, and that's what keeps it exciting. We'll always try to put you on the best bite, whether that means throwing topwater lures at dawn or soaking live bait around structure.
Our Inshore AM Charters are perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo anglers looking to experience the best of Gulf Coast fishing. With a max of 4 guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention and time with a rod in your hand. Whether you're after a cooler full of fish for dinner or just want to enjoy a morning on the water, we've got you covered. Don't miss out on this chance to create some lasting memories and maybe even catch the fish of a lifetime. Book your spot now and get ready for a morning of inshore action you won't forget!
Sheepshead are unique-looking fish with black and white stripes that earned them the nickname "convict fish." They typically weigh 1-8 pounds but can reach up to 20 pounds. You'll find them around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs where they feed on barnacles and crustaceans. Their human-like teeth are perfect for crushing shellfish. Spring is the best time to target them as they move to offshore spawning grounds. Anglers love the challenge of catching sheepshead - they're notorious bait stealers and require a quick hook set. The meat is delicious too, with a sweet flavor similar to crab. For best results, use small hooks and fresh bait like fiddler crabs or oysters. Here's a local secret: Scrape some barnacles off the pilings to chum them up before casting.
Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a popular inshore target. Most run 14-20 inches, but gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. Look for them in grass flats, around oyster bars, and in deeper channels during winter. They're ambush predators, so casting near structure is key. Dawn and dusk are prime feeding times. Sea trout are known for their soft mouth, so a gentle hookset is crucial. Anglers love their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps. The meat is mild and flaky, great for a fresh fish fry. Live shrimp under a popping cork is a classic setup, but soft plastics work well too. Pro tip: When you find one trout, there are usually more nearby. Fan cast the area thoroughly before moving on.
Redfish are a prized catch on the Gulf Coast, known for their coppery color and distinctive black spot near the tail. These hard-fighting fish typically run 20-30 inches, though trophy bulls can top 40 inches. You'll find them in shallow waters around oyster reefs, grass flats, and mangroves. They love to cruise the flats, sometimes with their backs out of the water, looking for crabs and shrimp. Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Redfish put up a great fight and make excellent table fare with their mild, sweet flavor. To hook one, try sight-casting with a gold spoon or topwater plug. My local tip: On windy days, fish the lee shores where bait gets pushed up against the bank. Redfish will be there to take advantage of the easy meal.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200