Get ready for an action-packed 4 hours on the water with Dauphins Charter Fishing! We're talking about some serious rod-bending action, whether you're staying close to shore or venturing out a bit further. Our 23' Sea Pro is perfect for getting you to the hotspots where the fish are biting. From Red Snapper to King Mackerel, we've got a mixed bag of species just waiting to test your skills. It's the kind of trip where you might start off targeting redfish in the backwaters and end up battling a hard-fighting amberjack near the reefs. Just remember, the offshore action depends on Mother Nature's mood, so we'll play it by ear to keep everyone safe and the fish coming over the rails.
Our 4-hour trip is the sweet spot for anglers who want a taste of both inshore and nearshore fishing without committing to a full day. We'll start by loading up the coolers (don't forget to bring your favorite drinks and snacks) and going over the game plan. Depending on what's biting, we might start in the calm inshore waters, working grass flats or oyster beds for redfish and trout. If the weather's right, we'll push out a bit further to target those reef dwellers like snapper and grouper. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility – we can change tactics on the fly to make sure you're always on the fish. And with a max of 4 guests, you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with the captain to fine-tune your techniques.
We've got all the gear you need, from light tackle for inshore species to heavier setups for when we venture out. Inshore, we might be using popping corks for trout or working soft plastics for redfish. If we head nearshore, be ready to drop some live bait or jigs for those bottom-dwellers. For the pelagics like king mackerel, we might break out the trolling gear. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques – our captain's got years of experience and is always happy to show you the ropes. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, you'll pick up some new tricks to add to your fishing arsenal.
King Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast to catch. Known for their blistering runs, kings can smoke a reel in seconds. We typically target them by slow-trolling live bait or using spoons and jigs. Spring through fall is prime time for kings, with fish averaging 10-20 pounds, though 40-pounders aren't unheard of. The fight alone is worth the price of admission.
Greater Amberjack: Pound for pound, these bruisers are some of the hardest fighting fish in the sea. We find them around wrecks and reefs, usually in the warmer months. Dropping a live bait or heavy jig is the ticket here. Be ready for a workout – these fish don't give up easily, and a 30-pounder will make you earn every inch of line.
Great Barracuda: With their toothy grins and lightning-fast attacks, 'cudas are always an exciting catch. We often spot them around structure or chasing bait schools. They're here year-round but are most active in warmer water. Trolling with tube lures or casting topwater plugs can trigger explosive strikes. Just watch those teeth when unhooking!
Cobia: These curious fish often swim right up to the boat, giving sight-fishing enthusiasts a real treat. Spring and early summer are your best bet for cobia. They love structure, so we target them around buoys, wrecks, and even following large rays. Tossing a live eel or a big jig their way usually does the trick. A 30-pounder will give you a run for your money.
Red Snapper: The poster child of reef fishing, red snapper are as good on the table as they are fun to catch. We find them over hard bottom areas and reefs. The season's tight, but when it's open, it's game on. Dropping cut bait or live pinfish to the bottom is a solid bet. Even a modest 5-pounder will put up a good scrap, and anything over 10 pounds is bragging rights material.
Our 4-hour trips are a hit because they give you a real taste of what our waters have to offer without eating up your whole day. It's perfect if you're juggling family vacation schedules or just want to squeeze in some quality fishing time. Plus, with the variety of species we target, every trip is different. One day you might be battling redfish in the shallows, the next you could be vertical jigging for amberjack. It's this mix of inshore and nearshore action that keeps our regulars coming back season after season. And let's be honest, there's nothing like the look on a first-timer's face when they hook into a fish that's bigger than they are!
Alright, folks, if you're itching to bend a rod and feel that drag singing, it's time to lock in your trip. Our 4-hour inshore/nearshore adventure is the perfect way to sample the best fishing our area has to offer. Whether you're a die-hard angler or looking to introduce the family to the joys of fishing, we've got you covered. Remember, we're limited to 4 guests, so these trips can fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Don't miss out on the chance to create some lasting memories and maybe even land the fish of a lifetime. Give us a call or book online – we'll have the bait ready and the rods rigged. See you on the water!
Cobia are one of those fish that'll really get your heart racing. These curious bruisers can hit 6 feet and 100 pounds, with a distinctive shark-like profile. You'll find them cruising near the surface around buoys, wrecks, and even following big rays and turtles. Spring and early summer are prime as they migrate up the coast. Anglers love cobia for their hard fights and excellent table fare. To hook one, sight-casting is the name of the game. Keep your eyes peeled for that brown shape and get a bait in front of it quick. Live eels or big jigs work great. A local tip: once hooked, get that fish away from the boat fast or it'll wrap you around everything in sight. Be ready for some serious pulling - these fish have stamina for days.
Great Barracuda are the toothy terrors of the shallows. These sleek predators can stretch 5-6 feet long, with a mouthful of razor-sharp teeth. You'll spot them lurking around reefs, wrecks, and channel edges in 20-80 feet of water. They're most active in warmer months. Anglers love 'cudas for their lightning-fast strikes and acrobatic jumps when hooked. While not the best eating, they put up an impressive fight on light tackle. To target them, try trolling tube lures or casting topwater plugs around structure. A wire leader is a must - those teeth will slice through mono in a heartbeat. Watch for flashes of silver as they chase bait - a well-placed cast can trigger an explosive strike. Just be careful when landing them - those teeth are no joke.
Greater Amberjack are bruisers of the reef, packing a serious punch for anglers. These powerful fish average 30-40 pounds but can top 100. Look for them around wrecks, reefs, and oil rigs in 60-240 feet of water. They prefer cooler months from fall through spring. AJs are famous for their strong initial runs and dogged fights all the way to the boat. Their firm white meat is excellent eating too. To land one, drop heavy jigs or live bait to the bottom and hang on tight. These fish often make a beeline back to structure when hooked, so be ready to put some backbone into stopping them. A local trick is to use a fish-finder rig with a live blue runner - AJs can rarely resist. Just be prepared for some serious pulling - these fish will test your tackle and your arms.
King Mackerel are a prized catch, known for their speed and fight. These sleek predators can hit 30-40 pounds, with a bluish-gray back and silvery sides. You'll find them in depths from 40 to 150 feet, often near structure or following bait schools. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Anglers love targeting kings for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked. Their firm, flavorful meat is great for the grill too. To up your chances, try slow-trolling live bait like blue runners or menhaden. Keep your drag set light - these fish can peel off 100 yards of line in seconds if you try to muscle them in. Watch for birds working the surface, as kings often push bait to the top. Once you hook up, get ready for an arm-burning battle with one of the ocean's fastest fish.
Red Snapper are the crown jewels of the Gulf reef scene. These crimson beauties average 5-10 pounds but can top 30. You'll find them hanging around rocky bottoms and reefs in 60-300 feet. Summer and fall are prime seasons when regulations allow. Anglers prize red snapper for their hard-fighting nature and world-class eating quality. To target them, drop cut bait or live pinfish to the bottom on heavy tackle. Watch your depth finder for shows of fish hugging structure. Once you hook up, crank hard to get them away from the reef - they'll dive for cover first chance they get. A local trick is to use chum to bring them up in the water column, then free-line baits back. Just be ready to battle - these fish pull like freight trains all the way up.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150