Looking to end your day with a bang? Our evening shore fishing charter in Santa Rosa Beach is just the ticket. We'll hit the sand as the crowds thin out, giving you prime access to some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. Whether you're a total newbie or a seasoned pro, this 4-hour trip is all about having fun and hopefully landing some impressive catches as the sun sets over the Gulf.
We'll meet up at 4 PM, right when the bite starts picking up. Our local guides know exactly where the fish are hanging out, so we'll head straight to the hotspots. You'll be fishing from the beach, which means no seasickness and plenty of room to spread out. We've got all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. And don't worry if you're new to this - our guides are patient teachers who love showing folks the ropes.
Shore fishing is an art, and we'll teach you the tricks of the trade. We'll cover bottom fishing, where your bait sits on the seafloor waiting for hungry predators. Light tackle fishing is perfect for going after speedy fish like pompano. And if you're up for a workout, we'll show you how to jig - a technique that mimics injured baitfish and drives the big ones wild. By the end of the trip, you'll have a solid grasp of inshore fishing methods that work all along the Gulf Coast.
Santa Rosa Beach is teeming with gamefish, and our evening trips often produce some real beauties. Redfish are the local celebrities - these copper-colored bruisers put up an amazing fight. African Pompano are like bars of silver streaking through the water, and they taste amazing on the grill. Southern Flounder might look funny, but they're masters of camouflage and a blast to catch. And let's not forget about Bluefish - these toothy critters are pure energy on the line.
There's something special about fishing as the day winds down. The beach empties out, leaving just you, your group, and miles of pristine coastline. The sound of waves and the salty breeze create the perfect backdrop for making memories. Plus, many fish species get more active at dusk, increasing your chances of a trophy catch. Our guests often tell us this trip is the highlight of their vacation - a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and maybe land the fish of a lifetime.
Redfish: These copper-colored bulldogs are the pride of the Panhandle. They love to hang out near structures and in the surf, often tailing in shallow water as they search for crabs. Redfish can grow over 40 inches long and put up a fight that'll test your arms and your drag. Fall is prime time for big bulls, but you can catch them year-round.
African Pompano: Don't let the name fool you - these fish are 100% Florida. They're sleek, powerful, and known for their long, trailing fins. African Pompano are usually found in deeper water, but they come in close to shore to feed, especially in the warmer months. Landing one of these beauties is a real achievement for any angler.
Southern Flounder: Masters of disguise, these flat fish can change their color to match the seafloor. They're ambush predators, lying in wait for small fish and shrimp to swim by. Flounder fishing requires finesse and patience, but the reward is some of the best-tasting fish in the sea. Fall is flounder season, when they move to deeper water to spawn.
Bluefish: If you want non-stop action, pray for a bluefish blitz. These toothy predators hunt in schools, churning up the water as they chase bait. They're fast, aggressive, and will hit just about any lure you throw. Bluefish are most common in the spring and fall, but can show up any time the bait is running.
Our Santa Rosa Beach evening charters are perfect for families, friends, or solo anglers looking to experience the best of Florida inshore fishing. With room for up to 6 people, it's a great value at $350 for the whole group. Remember, we provide all the gear and knowhow - you just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a cooler for your catch. Whether you're dreaming of your first redfish or looking to add a new species to your list, this trip delivers. The sun's setting, the fish are biting, and your spot on the sand is waiting. Don't miss out on this top-rated coastal experience - book your charter today and get ready for an evening of fishing you won't forget!
African pompano are sleek, silvery fish that'll give you a run for your money. Adults hang out in 30-250 feet of water near the bottom, while the younger ones stick closer to shore. These fish can get big - the record is over 50 pounds! Spring and fall are great times to target them as they move through our area. Anglers love 'em for their hard-fighting spirit and tasty meat. To catch one, try jigging or live bait near underwater structures. They're suckers for anything shiny and moving, so flashy metal jigs work well. My secret weapon? A blue runner on a slow troll. These jacks are fast swimmers, so be ready for some serious action when you hook up!
Bluefish are chomping machines that show up in our waters from summer through fall. Most run 3-5 pounds, but they can top 20 pounds. You'll find them busting bait schools in the surf, inlets, and nearshore waters. These aggressive feeders are known for their "blitzes" - frenzied attacks that churn up the water like a washing machine. Anglers love blues for their hard fights and oily, flavorful meat (though it's best eaten fresh). To catch 'em, try casting metal lures or topwater plugs into feeding frenzies. My local trick? Use wire leaders - those razor-sharp teeth will slice through mono in a heartbeat. Just watch your fingers when unhooking these toothy critters!
Redfish, also called red drum, are a favorite target in our local waters. These copper-colored beauties average 28-33 inches but can grow over 45 inches and 50 pounds. You'll find them in shallow flats, bays, and around structures like oyster reefs and old piers. They love water 1-4 feet deep - sometimes so shallow their backs stick out! Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers love redfish for their strong fight and excellent table fare. To hook one, try working a topwater lure or shrimp imitation jig slowly across shallow flats. My go-to trick is using a weedless 3-inch fly in grassy areas where big reds often lurk. Just be ready when they hit - these guys can really pull!
Southern flounder are odd-looking but delicious flatfish you'll find lurking on the bottom. They typically run 15-18 inches, but can reach over 30 inches and 20 pounds. Look for them in sandy or muddy areas of bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters. Fall is the best time to target them as they move offshore to spawn. Anglers prize flounder for their excellent eating and the challenge of detecting their subtle bites. To catch 'em, try drifting or still fishing with live bait or soft plastics. My top tip: use a Carolina rig with a live bull minnow, bumping it slowly along the bottom. When you feel that telltale "thump," give 'em a second before setting the hook!