Best Jacksonville Inshore Fishing with Capt. Ty

Morning Fishing Trip in Jacksonville

Captain Ty Sikes knows Jacksonville's inshore waters like the back of his hand, and his 2-hour morning fishing charters are perfect for anyone wanting to get their line wet before the day gets rolling. Whether you're a complete beginner or just looking for a quick fishing fix, this top-rated trip delivers solid action without eating up your whole day. You'll be targeting some of Jacksonville's most popular inshore species - Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder - across prime fishing grounds that consistently produce fish. Captain Ty provides everything you need including licenses, rods, reels, tackle, and bait, plus the local knowledge that makes the difference between a good morning and a great one.

What to Expect on the Water

This charter is all about maximizing your time on productive water. Captain Ty launches early to beat the heat and the crowds, positioning you over the best spots while the fish are still actively feeding. The morning bite is legendary around Jacksonville's inshore waters, and you'll quickly understand why locals swear by dawn fishing. With a maximum of three anglers, there's plenty of elbow room and personal attention from the captain. He'll adjust techniques based on current conditions - maybe working live shrimp around docks and structure, or casting artificial lures over grass flats depending on what's working best that day. The boat stays within the protected inshore waters, so you won't deal with big waves or long runs to fishing spots. It's comfortable fishing that focuses on putting fish in the boat rather than fighting rough conditions.

Techniques and Tackle Setup

Captain Ty uses light to medium tackle that's perfect for Jacksonville's inshore species, giving you that satisfying fight without being overpowered. Depending on conditions and target species, you might be bottom fishing with circle hooks and live or cut bait, or sight fishing with artificial lures like soft plastics and spoons. The captain reads the water constantly - watching for baitfish, working birds, or subtle changes in water color that indicate fish-holding structure below. Live shrimp is often the go-to bait here, worked around oyster bars, docks, and creek mouths where these species love to ambush prey. If the fish are spooky or the water's clear, you might switch to artificial lures that can be worked more quietly. Captain Ty handles all the rigging and re-baiting, so you can focus on fishing rather than fumbling with tackle. He's also great about teaching proper techniques, whether that's setting the hook on a trout bite or fighting a redfish without breaking them off.

Top Catches This Season

Largemouth Bass might surprise some folks on an inshore trip, but Jacksonville's brackish waters hold some chunky bass that fight differently than their freshwater cousins. These fish hang around structure in slightly fresher water, often mixed in with the saltwater species. They're aggressive and hit hard, making for exciting action when you find them. Spring and fall see the best bass action in the inshore areas, particularly around creek mouths and marshy shorelines. Summer Flounder are the kings of the flats around Jacksonville, and these flatfish are pure fun to catch. They bury themselves in sandy bottoms waiting to ambush baitfish, and when they hit, it's often a solid thump followed by a determined fight. Flounder are excellent table fare, and Captain Ty knows the specific depth changes and bottom types where they consistently hold. The best flounder action typically happens during moving water, either incoming or outgoing tide. Sheepshead are the thieves of the inshore waters - notorious bait stealers with crushing jaws and a knack for finding structure. These black and white striped fish hang around pilings, docks, and oyster bars, picking off crabs and barnacles. They're tricky to hook because they're such delicate biters, but once you get the hang of detecting their subtle nibbles, they're addictive to target. Sheepshead are phenomenal eating and provide year-round action in Jacksonville waters. Redfish are the crown jewel of Jacksonville inshore fishing, and these copper-colored bruisers are what most anglers dream about. They cruise the shallow flats in schools, tailing in skinny water as they root around for crabs and shrimp. Redfish fight like freight trains, making blistering runs and using their broad sides to pull drag. They're abundant year-round but particularly active during the cooler months when they school up in larger numbers. Captain Ty knows their seasonal patterns and preferred feeding areas, giving you the best shot at hooking into these world-class gamefish.

Time to Book Your Spot

Captain Ty's morning fishing trips fill up fast, especially during peak seasons when the fishing is hot and everyone wants to get on the water early. This customer favorite trip offers incredible value - you get expert guidance, all necessary equipment, and access to prime fishing spots that produce consistent action. The 2-hour format is perfect for families with kids, visitors with limited time, or anyone wanting to test the waters before booking a longer charter. Since deposits are non-refundable, make sure your schedule is locked in before securing your spot. The early morning timing means you'll be back on shore while the day is still young, leaving plenty of time for other activities or just enjoying your fresh catch. Jacksonville's inshore waters offer some of the best fishing on the East Coast, and Captain Ty's local expertise ensures you'll experience it at its finest. Don't miss out on this renowned morning fishing experience that keeps anglers coming back trip after trip.