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Top-Rated Jacksonville Fishing Charters | Bell & Anchor
- Published Date: July 16, 2025
- Fishing
- Jacksonville
- $500 - $800 price range
Summary
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Reels and Smiles
Deep sea adventure yields a prized Red Snapper!
Deep sea adventure lands a prized Red Snapper!
Deep sea adventure yields a prized Red Snapper catch!
Huge Red Snapper landed in clear conditions before the afternoon rain!
Deep sea adventure lands a prized Red Snapper off Jacksonville's coast!
Deep sea adventure yields a prized Red Snapper under clear skies!
Reeling in the best with a Red Snapper on light tackle in clear waters!
Huge 45-inch Red Snapper reeled in during deep sea adventure!
Huge Red Snapper reeled in during a deep sea light tackle adventure!
Deep sea delight: Red Snapper hooked on light tackle off Jacksonville!
Deep sea adventure yields a prized Red Snapper!
Deep sea adventure lands a prized Red Snapper!
Deep sea adventure yields a prized Red Snapper catch!
Huge Red Snapper landed in clear conditions before the afternoon rain!
Deep sea adventure lands a prized Red Snapper off Jacksonville's coast!
Deep sea adventure yields a prized Red Snapper under clear skies!
Reeling in the best with a Red Snapper on light tackle in clear waters!
Huge 45-inch Red Snapper reeled in during deep sea adventure!
Huge Red Snapper reeled in during a deep sea light tackle adventure!
Deep sea delight: Red Snapper hooked on light tackle off Jacksonville!
Deep sea adventure yields a prized Red Snapper!
Deep sea adventure lands a prized Red Snapper!
Deep sea adventure yields a prized Red Snapper catch!
Huge Red Snapper landed in clear conditions before the afternoon rain!
Half-Day Fishing Adventure in Jacksonville
Get ready to reel in some serious fun on this 4-hour fishing trip right here in Jacksonville, FL. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to wet a line with the family, this half-day charter is the perfect way to experience the rich fishing grounds of Northeast Florida. With Bell & Anchor Fishing Charters, you'll be in for a treat as we navigate the local waters in search of some of the area's most prized catches. So grab your hat and sunscreen, because we're about to hit the water for a fishing experience you won't soon forget!
Trip Overview
This half-day fishing charter is all about flexibility and fun. You can choose between a morning or afternoon departure, making it easy to fit some quality fishing time into your busy schedule. We'll spend four action-packed hours exploring the diverse inshore waters around Jacksonville, targeting a variety of species that call these waters home. Our experienced captain knows all the local hotspots and will put you on the fish, whether you're after a hard-fighting redfish or a acrobatic tarpon. This trip is perfect for families looking to introduce kids to the joys of fishing, or for anyone who wants to squeeze in a quick fishing fix without committing to a full day on the water.
What to Expect on the Water
When you step aboard our well-equipped fishing vessel, you'll be greeted by our friendly captain who'll give you the rundown on the day's plan. We provide all the necessary fishing gear, from rods and reels to bait and tackle, so you don't need to worry about bringing your own equipment. As we cruise out to our fishing grounds, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, and a variety of seabirds that frequent these waters. Once we reach a promising spot, we'll drop anchor or drift, depending on the conditions and target species. Your captain will show you the ropes, demonstrating proper casting techniques and sharing tips on how to entice a bite. Whether you're using live bait or artificial lures, you'll have plenty of opportunities to hone your skills and hopefully land that trophy catch!
Top Catches This Season
Jacksonville's inshore waters are teeming with a variety of game fish that'll put your angling skills to the test. Redfish are always a popular target, known for their powerful runs and delicious meat. We often find them tailing in the shallows or hanging around oyster beds. Tarpon, the "silver king," offers an adrenaline-pumping fight that'll have you whooping with excitement. These acrobatic fish are known for their spectacular leaps and can reach weights over 100 pounds. Crevalle jacks are another hard-fighting species that'll give you a workout – pound for pound, they're some of the strongest fish in these waters. For those who prefer a more delicate touch, we also target Spanish mackerel and southern flounder. The mackerel are fast and furious, while flounder require a bit more finesse but reward you with some of the tastiest fillets around.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Tarpon: These prehistoric powerhouses are the stuff of angling legend. Tarpon can grow to over 8 feet long and weigh well over 200 pounds, though the ones we typically encounter in Jacksonville are in the 20-80 pound range. They're most active in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Watching a tarpon launch itself into the air, gills rattling, is a sight you'll never forget. These fish are strictly catch-and-release, but the photo opportunities are priceless.
Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored beauties are a staple of inshore fishing in Jacksonville. They range from "rat reds" of just a few pounds to bull reds that can top 40 pounds. Redfish love to hang around structure like oyster bars, dock pilings, and grass flats. They put up a great fight and are excellent table fare. The best part? They can be caught year-round in our waters, with fall being particularly productive.
Crevalle Jack: If you're looking for a fish that punches well above its weight class, look no further than the crevalle jack. These streamlined speedsters are often found in schools, terrorizing bait pods near the surface. Hooking into one is like being connected to a submarine with a turbo engine. They're most abundant in the summer months and while not considered great eating, they more than make up for it with their fighting prowess.
Spanish Mackerel: These toothy predators are the speedsters of the inshore waters. Known for their blistering runs and acrobatic leaps, Spanish mackerel are a blast to catch on light tackle. They typically show up in good numbers during the spring and fall migrations. While they require careful handling due to their sharp teeth, they're delicious when grilled fresh.
Southern Flounder: Masters of camouflage, southern flounder are the ninjas of the seafloor. These flat fish bury themselves in the sand, waiting to ambush unsuspecting prey. Catching them requires a delicate touch and a keen eye to detect their subtle bites. Fall is prime time for flounder fishing, as they move into shallower waters to spawn. They're highly prized for their sweet, delicate flesh, making them a favorite among seafood lovers.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
There's something special about fishing the waters around Jacksonville that keeps anglers coming back for more. Maybe it's the thrill of never knowing what you might catch next – one minute you could be battling a bulldogging redfish, the next you're locked in a tug-of-war with a high-flying tarpon. Or perhaps it's the breathtaking scenery, with the city skyline in the distance and nature all around you. Our half-day trips offer the perfect blend of action and relaxation, giving you a chance to unwind on the water while still having plenty of time to explore Jacksonville's other attractions. Plus, with our expert guides handling all the details, from finding the fish to cleaning your catch, all you have to do is show up ready for some rod-bending action.
Time to Book Your Spot
Don't let this opportunity to experience some of the best inshore fishing Jacksonville has to offer slip away! Our half-day charters are perfect for anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. With a max capacity of 3 guests, you're guaranteed a personalized experience with plenty of one-on-one instruction if needed. While we don't provide meals on this trip, you're welcome to bring snacks and drinks to keep your energy up as you reel in the big ones. Remember, fishing isn't just about what you catch – it's about the memories you make and the stories you'll tell. So gather your fishing buddies, round up the family, or treat yourself to a solo adventure, and let's get out on the water. The fish are biting, and your next great catch is waiting. Book your Jacksonville fishing charter today and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water!
Learn more about the species
Crevalle Jack
Crevalle jacks are the bulldogs of the flats, averaging 3-5 pounds but capable of topping 60. These aggressive predators hunt in large schools, often pushing baitfish to the surface. You'll find them both inshore and offshore, especially around structures like jetties and reefs. Summer and fall are peak seasons as they follow bait migrations. Anglers love jacks for their brutal strikes and bulldog fighting style. To hook up, look for birds diving on bait schools and cast fast-moving lures like spoons or topwater plugs into the fray. Pro tip: when you see a jack school busting bait on the surface, cast beyond them and retrieve through the school for explosive strikes.
Redfish
Redfish are a favorite inshore species, usually ranging from 3-5 pounds but capable of growing much larger. Look for their distinctive spot near the tail as they cruise shallow flats and oyster bars in 1-4 feet of water. Fall is prime redfish season when they school up to spawn. Anglers love targeting reds for their hard-fighting nature and excellent table fare. To up your chances, try sight-fishing with gold spoons or soft plastics around grass edges during a falling tide. A local trick is to listen for them "tailing" - when their tails break the surface as they root for crabs in shallow water. That's your cue to make a cast!
Southern Flounder
Southern flounder are masters of camouflage, blending into sandy or muddy bottoms in coastal waters. They typically run 15-18 inches and a few pounds, though trophy fish can reach 20 pounds. Look for them in estuaries, bays, and along beaches, especially near structure like docks or oyster bars. Fall is prime flounder season as they migrate to spawn offshore. Anglers prize flounder for their firm, white meat and the challenge of detecting their subtle bites. To catch them, try dragging a live mullet or soft plastic along the bottom on a Carolina rig. Here's a local tip: when you feel a soft thump, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder time to turn the bait in its mouth before reeling in.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel are speedsters of the coast, typically 1-2 feet long and a few pounds. These sleek, spotted fish travel in large schools near the surface, often within sight of shore. Look for them around inlets, piers, and just off the beaches, especially in spring and fall as they migrate. Anglers love Spanish macks for their fast runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. They're also excellent eating, with firm, flavorful meat. To catch them, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind the boat, or cast into feeding schools from shore. A local trick: when you see birds diving, speed up to the area and cast a silver spoon as far as you can for instant hookups.
Tarpon
Tarpon are the heavyweights of inshore fishing, growing up to 8 feet and 280 pounds. These prehistoric fish put on an acrobatic show, leaping several feet out of the water when hooked. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, especially around structures like bridges and jetties. Spring and summer are prime tarpon seasons as they migrate along the coast. Anglers love targeting them for the intense fight and the bragging rights of landing "the silver king." To improve your odds, use live bait like mullet or crabs and let it drift naturally with the current. Just remember, tarpon have bony mouths, so a sharp hook set is crucial. These catch-and-release giants aren't for eating, but the thrill of the battle makes up for it.
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
