%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F14920%2Fimages%2F1713976062008mitchlogo.png&w=1200&q=100)
World-Class Inshore Fishing in Port St Joe
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Port St Joe, FL
- $500 - $800 price range
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F5ab9f9b9-08ac-4d6f-989d-0dd8bd32ee0a%2Fratecard%2F93b978db5c1895e987a909feacb9fef5.jpeg&w=1200&q=75)
Rods, Reels, and Catches
Mangrove snapper haul—productive.
Redfish—strong.
Speckled trout—classic.
Redfish—reliable.
Nice flounder—solid.
Mangrove snapper—feisty.
Redfish—solid.
Redfish—impressive.
Speckled trout—awesome.
Redfish—quality.
Mangrove snapper haul—productive.
Redfish—strong.
Speckled trout—classic.
Redfish—reliable.
Nice flounder—solid.
Mangrove snapper—feisty.
Redfish—solid.
Redfish—impressive.
Speckled trout—awesome.
Redfish—quality.
Mangrove snapper haul—productive.
Redfish—strong.
Speckled trout—classic.
Redfish—reliable.
Port St Joe Fishing: 4-Hour Inshore Adventure
Ready to wet a line in some of Florida's most productive inshore waters? Our 4-hour morning or afternoon charters out of Port St Joe are just the ticket. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, we'll put you on the fish and show you the ropes of inshore fishing in this slice of the Forgotten Coast. With a max of 4 guests per trip, you'll get plenty of personal attention from our expert guides as we target some of the area's most sought-after species.
What to Expect on the Water
We kick off bright and early at 8 AM, when the fish are most active and the waters are calm. Our well-equipped vessel will zip you out to the prime fishing grounds in no time. Don't sweat the gear - we provide everything you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. Our guides know these waters like the back of their hand, so we'll head straight for the hot spots where the fish are biting.
Throughout the trip, we'll try different techniques to match what's working that day. You might find yourself casting soft plastics along grass flats for redfish, or maybe we'll set up a drift to target flounder. The beauty of inshore fishing is its variety - one minute you're working a topwater lure, the next you're feeling the telltale thump of a cobia taking your bait. And with a 4-hour trip, we've got plenty of time to move around and find the action.
Fishing Know-How & Local Intel
Our guides aren't just here to put you on fish - they're walking encyclopedias of local fishing knowledge. Want to know why we're using a particular lure? Curious about the best way to work a popping cork? Just ask. We're happy to share tips and tricks that'll up your fishing game, whether you're a first-timer or looking to refine your technique.
We'll clue you in on how tides affect fish movement in the area, point out key structure where fish like to hang out, and explain why certain spots are fish magnets at different times of the year. By the end of the trip, you'll have a much better understanding of how to approach inshore fishing in the Port St Joe area.
Top Catches This Season
Port St Joe's inshore waters are teeming with game fish, and what's biting best can change with the seasons. Here's a rundown of some of the species you might tangle with on your trip:
Summer Flounder: These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy bottom. We often find them in deeper holes or along channel edges. The thrill of flounder fishing is in the subtle bite - you've got to stay alert to feel that light tap. Once hooked, they put up a determined fight, and they're some of the best eating fish in these waters.
Redfish: The bulldogs of the flats, redfish are a favorite target for many anglers. We often spot them tailing in shallow water, their copper-colored backs betraying their location. They'll hit everything from live bait to artificial lures, and when they take off, hold on tight! The "redfish run" in the fall is something special, with big schools of oversized reds cruising the coast.
Ladyfish: Don't let their size fool you - these high-jumping, hard-fighting fish are a blast to catch. We often find them in schools, and once you hook one, get ready for some acrobatics. They're not great for eating, but they make excellent cut bait for other species.
Cobia: These curious fish are often found following large rays or hanging around structure. They grow big - we're talking 50 pounds or more - and they fight like crazy. Cobia season is a big deal around here, usually peaking in spring and early summer. Landing one of these bruisers is a real achievement.
Bluefish: Fast, aggressive, and always hungry, bluefish are a blast to catch. They often show up in big schools, chopping up bait on the surface. When the blues are running, the action can be non-stop. They're not the best table fare, but for pure fishing excitement, it's hard to beat a bluefish blitz.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
There's something special about fishing the inshore waters of Port St Joe. Maybe it's the way the morning sun glints off the calm water as we head out. Or the excitement of spotting a school of redfish tailing in the shallows. It could be the satisfaction of learning a new technique and putting it to use right away.
Our repeat customers often tell us it's the combination of great fishing, knowledgeable guides, and the laid-back vibe of the area that keeps them coming back. We're not about high-pressure fishing here - it's all about having a good time on the water, catching some fish, and maybe learning a thing or two along the way.
And let's not forget the scenery. The unspoiled coastline, the abundance of wildlife - it's not uncommon to spot dolphins, ospreys, or even a manatee during our trips. It's a reminder of why this part of Florida is called the Forgotten Coast - it's a slice of old Florida that's managed to stay under the radar.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best inshore fishing Port St Joe has to offer, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our 4-hour charters are perfect for both early birds and those who prefer to sleep in a bit - we've got morning and afternoon slots available.
Remember, we keep our groups small (max 4 people) to ensure everyone gets plenty of attention and fishing time. The base rate covers 2 anglers, with just a $50 add-on for each additional person. It's a great value for a half-day of guided fishing in one of Florida's top inshore destinations.
Don't forget - all the gear you need is included, so you can travel light. Just bring your sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a snack or two. We'll take care of the rest. And who knows? You might just catch dinner for the whole family.
So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. Book your Port St Joe fishing charter today and get ready for a morning or afternoon of rod-bending action on the Forgotten Coast. Trust us, once you experience inshore fishing here, you'll be planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock.
Learn more about the species
Bluefish
Bluefish are the bullies of the bay – aggressive, toothy, and always ready for a fight. They're sleek and powerful, usually 2-5 pounds but can reach up to 20. You'll know them by their bluish-green backs and sharp, prominent teeth. We find blues in open water, around inlets, and sometimes even in the surf. They're most active here from late spring through fall. Blues often hunt in schools, creating feeding frenzies called "blitzes" that churn up the water like a washing machine. Anglers love blues for their aggressive strikes and strong fights. They're also good eating when prepared right, though larger ones can be oily. To catch blues, try fast-moving lures like metal spoons or topwater plugs. Work them quickly – blues like to chase. Watch for birds diving on bait schools – that's often a sign of bluefish below. Just be careful handling them – those teeth are no joke!
Cobia
Cobia are one of the hardest-fighting fish you'll find in our waters. They're dark brown with a white belly, often mistaken for sharks at first glance. Most we catch are 20-40 pounds, but they can grow over 100 pounds. Look for cobia around structures like buoys, wrecks, and even large rays or sea turtles – they love to follow bigger animals. Spring and early summer are best, when they migrate along the coast. Anglers prize cobia for their powerful runs and excellent table quality. They're not the fastest fish, but they're relentless fighters that can wear you out. For the best shot at a big cobia, try sight-fishing with live eels or large jigs. When you spot one, cast well ahead of it and let your bait sink. Cobia are curious fish – they'll often swim right up to investigate. Be ready for a hard strike and an even harder fight!
Ladyfish
Ladyfish, or poor man's tarpon, are one of the most acrobatic fish you'll hook around here. They're long and slender, usually 1-2 feet long, with a deeply forked tail. You'll find them in coastal waters, bays, and even up into rivers. These fish are around all year, but they're most active in warmer months. They're not prized for eating, but what they lack in table fare, they make up for in pure fishing fun. When hooked, ladyfish go airborne, skipping across the water like a flat stone. Light tackle is the way to go – it maximizes the fight. Small jigs, spoons, or live shrimp work well. Cast into schools you see busting bait on the surface. Here's a tip: use a heavier leader than you might think. Ladyfish have small but sharp teeth that can easily cut through light line. And hold on tight when you hook one – these acrobats love to throw the hook mid-jump!
Redfish
Redfish, also called red drum, are a favorite inshore species here in Port St. Joe. You'll spot them by their copper-red color and signature black spot near the tail. Most reds we catch are in the 20-30 inch range, but they can grow over 40 inches and 50 pounds. These fish love shallow water – we often find them tailing in just 1-4 feet of water around oyster bars, grass flats, and mangroves. They're here year-round, but fall is prime time when they school up to spawn. Redfish put up a great fight on light tackle, and they're excellent eating too. Anglers love sight-casting to them in clear shallows – it's like hunting on the water. For best results, try a gold spoon or soft plastic on a jighead. Work it slowly along the bottom, especially around structure. When you see a red's tail sticking up, cast beyond it and drag your lure past its nose. Be ready for an explosive strike!
Summer Flounder
Summer Flounder are a unique flatfish species, with both eyes on their left side. They're masters of camouflage, changing color to blend with the seafloor. Typically 15-20 inches long, these ambush predators can grow up to 26 pounds. You'll find them in coastal waters, often in depths of 30-100 feet. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms where they can hide. Late summer to early fall is prime time for flounder fishing. Anglers love targeting them for their tasty white meat and the challenge they present. They're not the strongest fighters, but they're tricky to hook. To land a flounder, try drifting or slow-trolling with live bait like minnows or mullet. A circle hook works best – it's easier for them to grab with their sideways bite. When you feel a bite, resist the urge to set the hook right away. Give the flounder a few seconds to fully take the bait, then reel steadily. Patience is key with these sneaky bottom-dwellers.
About the Florida Cracker Charter
%2F%2Fusers%2F5ab9f9b9-08ac-4d6f-989d-0dd8bd32ee0a%2Fvehicle_picture%2Fmitchboat.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 90
