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Expert Full-Day Fishing in Jacksonville, FL
- Published Date: August 19, 2025
- Fishing
- Jacksonville
- $500 - $800 price range
Summary
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Big Catches of the Day
Best Jacksonville, FL fishing charter
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Best Jacksonville, FL fishing charter
Limited out on fish this early morning
Snappers vibrant colors out of the water
Fish are biting, 2nd quarter season in FL
Kids fishing charter choice in FL.
Sheepshead in Jacksonville, FL. Big!
Full-Day Fishing Frenzy: Jacksonville's Best Catches
Ready to put your angling skills to the test? Captain Roland's advanced full-day trip is your ticket to some of the best fishing Jacksonville has to offer. We're talking 8 solid hours on the water, chasing after prized gamefish like King Mackerel, Redfish, Cobia, Crevalle Jack, and even the mighty Tarpon. This isn't your average lazy day of fishing—we'll be covering serious ground, from running the beaches to hitting proven hotspots where the big ones lurk. If you've got the experience and you're itching for a real challenge, you're in for one heck of a day.
What to Expect on the Water
Alright, let's break it down. We'll kick off early, loading up the boat with all the top-notch gear you'll need for a full day of hardcore fishing. As we head out, Captain Roland will get you up to speed on the game plan. We're talking about using advanced techniques to target some of the most sought-after fish in these parts. You might be trolling for King Mackerel one minute, then switching gears to sight-cast for Redfish the next. And if we spot a school of Tarpon rolling? You better believe we're going after them. This trip is all about flexibility and chasing the action wherever it takes us. Oh, and don't worry—we'll take a breather on a sandbar midday to recharge before getting back to the hunt.
Techniques That Land the Big Ones
This ain't no beginner's bobber fishing, folks. We're pulling out all the stops with techniques that seasoned anglers dream about. We might start off trolling with live bait for those trophy Kings, using specialized rigs that'll have them hitting hard. For Redfish, we could be sight-casting in the shallows or working deep holes with jigs. When it comes to Cobia, keep your eyes peeled—we'll be looking for those brown bombers near the surface and pitching baits their way. And Jacks? Hold onto your hats because when a school of these bruisers shows up, it's all hands on deck for some of the most intense topwater action you'll ever experience. Captain Roland knows these waters like the back of his hand, so trust me, you're in for some world-class fishing.
Target Species Breakdown
King Mackerel: These speedsters are the rock stars of offshore fishing. Known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics, Kings can top out at over 50 pounds. We typically target them spring through fall, trolling with live bait or spoons. When a King hits, hold on tight—these fish will make your drag scream and your arms burn.
Redfish: The bulldogs of the flats, Redfish are a Jacksonville staple. These copper-colored beauties can be found year-round, but fall is prime time when they school up for their spawn. Sight-casting to tailing Reds in skinny water is a rush like no other, and when they're on, the action can be non-stop.
Cobia: Often called "crab eaters," Cobia are curious fish that love to follow large objects in the water. We usually start seeing them in late spring, and they stick around through summer. These powerful fish can top 100 pounds and put up a fight that'll test even the most experienced anglers.
Crevalle Jack: If you want a fish that pulls like a freight train, look no further than the Crevalle Jack. These bruisers travel in schools and when they show up, it's chaos. They'll crush topwater lures and fight dirty, often heading straight for structure. Prime time is summer through fall, and trust me, you'll never forget your first Jack attack.
Tarpon: The silver king is the holy grail for many anglers. These prehistoric beasts can exceed 150 pounds and are known for their spectacular leaps and long, grueling fights. Tarpon typically show up in late spring and hang around through summer. Landing one of these giants is a true badge of honor in the fishing world.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Let's be real—this trip isn't for the faint of heart. It's for those who live and breathe fishing, who get a kick out of battling big fish and aren't afraid to put in the work. You'll be using techniques that go beyond your basic cast-and-retrieve, targeting fish that'll give you the fight of your life. And the variety? That's what keeps folks coming back for more. One minute you're locked in battle with a monster King, the next you're finessing a Redfish out of the grass. It's non-stop action, and by the end of the day, you'll have stories (and hopefully photos) that'll make your fishing buddies green with envy.
Time to Book Your Spot
Look, if you're still reading this, chances are you're itching to get out on the water. This full-day advanced trip with Captain Roland is the real deal—8 hours of pure fishing bliss, targeting some of the most exciting species Jacksonville has to offer. Whether you're after that trophy King Mackerel, want to tangle with a bulldogging Redfish, or dream of jumping a Tarpon, this is your chance. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait. Grab your fishing buddies (up to 3 more can join you), and let's make it happen. Trust me, this is the kind of trip that turns into an annual tradition. So what are you waiting for? Book now and get ready for a day of fishing you'll be talking about for years to come.
Learn more about the animals
Cobia
Cobia are the oddballs of our offshore waters - lone wolves that look like a cross between a shark and a catfish. They average 20-40 pounds but can top 100. You'll find them around buoys, wrecks, and even free-swimming near the surface. Spring and early summer are prime as they migrate along our coast. Anglers love cobia for their hard-fighting spirit and excellent eating quality. To catch one, keep your eyes peeled - sight fishing is the name of the game. When you spot one, cast a live eel or big jig right on its nose. Be ready for anything - cobia might lazily follow your bait or suddenly explode on it. Once hooked, they'll make powerful runs and even jump occasionally. A local trick: If you see rays or turtles, look closely - cobia often shadow them to snatch up stirred-up baitfish.
Crevalle Jack
Crevalle jacks are the muscle cars of our inshore waters. These broad-shouldered bruisers average 3-5 pounds but can top 60. You'll spot them busting bait on the surface - just look for the birds diving. They hang around inlets, bridges, and beaches, often in big schools. Summer and fall are prime, but they're around year-round. Anglers love jacks for their bulldog fight - pound for pound, few fish pull harder. They're not great eating, so it's all about the sport. To catch 'em, throw topwater lures or metal jigs into feeding frenzies. Work your lure fast - jacks love the chase. When one hits, hold on tight and get ready for a drag-screaming run. A local tip: If you see a single large jack, cast well ahead of it. Big loners are often the biggest fish, and they're warier than their schooling cousins.
King Mackerel
Kings are the speedsters of our coastal waters, capable of hitting 35 mph when chasing bait. These sleek predators average 15-30 pounds but can top 90. Look for them in 40-150 feet of water, especially around structures like reefs or wrecks. Spring and fall migrations offer the best action as they follow baitfish schools along the beaches. Anglers love kings for their blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. They're also great eating when prepared right. To target them, troll with live bait like blue runners or menhaden. Rig with a stinger hook to counter their slash-and-grab feeding style. Keep your bait near the surface and be ready - when a king hits, it's like someone threw a switch. Let them run to avoid pulled hooks, then hang on for a fight that'll test your drag system and leave your arms burning.
Redfish
Redfish are the bulldogs of the flats, built for power with their broad shoulders and trademark tail spot. Most run 5-15 pounds, but bulls over 40 aren't uncommon. You'll find them in super shallow water - sometimes with their backs out of the water - around oyster bars, grass flats, and mangroves. They're year-round targets, but fall is prime as they school up for spawning. Anglers love reds for their hard-pulling fight and excellent table fare. To catch 'em, work topwater lures or soft plastics along shorelines early and late. As the sun gets high, switch to scented baits or live shrimp fished on the bottom. One local trick: On calm days, look for their tails waving above the surface as they root for crabs. Sneak up quietly, make a perfect cast, and hold on tight - even a smaller red will give you a run for your money.
Tarpon
Tarpon are the giants of inshore fishing, averaging 30-80 pounds but capable of topping 280. They're known for their explosive aerial acrobatics - these silver missiles can leap 10 feet out of the water. You'll find them in coastal waters, inlets, and even up some rivers. Spring and summer are prime seasons as they migrate along our beaches. Anglers love 'em for the intense fight and pure thrill, not for eating. To hook one, use heavy tackle and big live baits like mullet or crabs. Watch for rolling fish on the surface, then lead your cast ahead of their path. When they strike, bow to the king - drop your rod tip to give slack when they jump or you'll lose 'em for sure. It's all catch-and-release, so bring a camera to capture the moment before sending these prehistoric beauties back.
About the Sea Chaser (Bay boat)
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150
