Get ready for an evening of pure fishing bliss on the gorgeous Gulf Coast. Our 4-hour sunset trip is the perfect way to cap off your day, whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet. We'll cruise out as the sun starts to dip, hitting prime fishing spots while the water turns to gold. With room for up to 6 people, it's ideal for families, friends, or even a solo adventure if you're looking to make some new fishing buddies.
Picture this: You're on the deck of our comfy boat, rod in hand, as we glide through the calm waters of Santa Rosa Beach. The sky's putting on a show with oranges and pinks, and the fish are getting frisky. We've got all the gear you need, so just bring yourself and maybe a cold drink or two. From 4 PM to 8 PM, we'll hit the sweet spots where the fish are biting. It's not just about catching fish (though we'll do plenty of that) – it's about soaking in that laid-back Gulf Coast vibe as day turns to night.
We keep things interesting with a mix of fishing techniques. Bottom fishing? You bet. We'll drop lines to where the big ones lurk. Light tackle's our bread and butter – perfect for feeling every nibble and putting up a good fight. And don't sleep on jigging – it's a blast and super effective for some of our local favorites. Whether you're a pro or it's your first time holding a rod, our crew's got you covered. We'll show you the ropes, help you perfect your technique, and make sure everyone's having a good time. And let's be real – there's something special about reeling in a catch as the sun sets. It's the kind of moment that'll have you hooked on fishing for life.
Redfish are the rock stars of our local waters. These copper-colored beauties put up a fight that'll have your arms burning (in the best way). They love hanging out near structures and in the shallows, especially as the day cools off. Fall's prime time for reds, but we catch 'em year-round. And let me tell you, there's nothing like the sound of your line zinging out when a big red takes the bait.
African Pompano are the sleek, silvery speedsters of the Gulf. These guys are a real treat to catch – they're fast, they're strong, and they look like they're carved out of metal. We usually find them a bit further out, often around structures or reefs. Spring and summer are your best bet for pompano, and they're known for those sudden, powerful runs that'll test your drag and your nerves.
Southern Flounder might not win any beauty contests, but they're a favorite for a reason. These flat fish are masters of camouflage, blending right into the sandy bottom. We target them as they move to deeper waters in the fall, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look. The challenge with flounder is spotting them – it's like a underwater game of hide-and-seek. But once you hook one, you're in for some of the best eating fish in the Gulf.
Bluefish are the adrenaline junkies of our local waters. These guys are all teeth and attitude, known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. We see them more in the cooler months, often in schools that can turn the water into a frenzy when they're feeding. Catching blues is all about fast retrieves and sturdy gear – they're not shy about attacking your lure with everything they've got. It's high-energy fishing that'll keep you on your toes.
Folks love our sunset trips because it's the best of both worlds – serious fishing and pure relaxation. As the day winds down, the water gets calmer, the views get prettier, and the fish often get more active. It's not uncommon to see dolphins playing in our wake or pelicans diving for their dinner. And let's not forget the bragging rights – there's something special about saying you caught your dinner while most people were heading in for the night.
This season's been on fire, with some real monsters coming up. We've had anglers pulling in redfish so big they barely fit in the net, and a few African pompano that looked more like silver hubcaps than fish. One family group managed to catch their limit of flounder in under an hour – talk about a fish fry in the making! And just last week, a first-timer hooked into a bluefish that zigged and zagged so much, you'd think it was trying to water ski.
Look, I could go on all day about the joys of sunset fishing in Santa Rosa Beach, but nothing beats experiencing it yourself. At $350 for up to 6 people, it's a steal for 4 hours of prime time on the water. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer, snap some Instagram-worthy pics, or just enjoy a peaceful evening on the Gulf, we've got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to lock in your trip. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the water for a sunset adventure you won't forget. Trust me, once you've felt that tug on your line as the sky turns pink, you'll be planning your next trip before we even hit the dock.
African Pompano are sleek, silvery fish that'll give you a run for your money. Adults usually range from 15-30 pounds, but can hit 50 in deeper waters. You'll find them anywhere from 30 to 250 feet deep, often around reefs or wrecks. These guys are fast swimmers and love to chase shiny objects. Spring and fall are good times to target them as they migrate. Anglers love African Pompano for their hard-fighting spirit and tasty white meat. To land one, try jigging with metal lures or live bait like small blue runners. Keep your eyes peeled for their distinctive trailing filaments - that's how you spot the younger ones.
Bluefish are aggressive fighters that'll give you a thrill on light tackle. They typically run 3-5 pounds but can reach up to 20. You'll find them in our bays and along the coast, often in schools churning up the water surface - we call that a "bluefish blitz." Summer and early fall are prime times when they follow bait schools inshore. Anglers love bluefish for their hard strikes and acrobatic jumps. They've got a strong flavor that's great smoked or grilled fresh. Watch those teeth though - they're sharp! To catch 'em, try casting metal lures or topwater plugs into feeding schools. Strip your line fast to trigger their predatory instinct. It's an exciting way to fish!
Redfish are a prized catch in our local waters. These copper-colored beauties can grow up to 40 inches, but most you'll catch are in the 20-30 inch range. Look for them in shallow flats, around oyster beds, and near grass lines. They love hanging out in water just 1-4 feet deep, sometimes with their backs sticking out! Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Redfish put up a great fight and are delicious on the table. Their signature black spot near the tail helps them trick predators. To hook one, try live shrimp or a gold spoon lure. Work it slowly along the bottom, and be ready for that telltale thump when they strike.
Southern Flounder are masters of camouflage, blending right into sandy or muddy bottoms. Most are 15-18 inches long, but they can grow up to 33 inches. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall is the best time to target them as they move to deeper waters to spawn. Flounder are popular for their mild, sweet flavor and firm texture. They're ambush predators, so look for them around structure or drop-offs. Here's a local trick: use a Carolina rig with live bait like bull minnows or mullet. Drag it slowly along the bottom, and when you feel a light tap, give it a few seconds before setting the hook. These flatfish are left-eyed, which is pretty unique!