Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in St. Augustine

Reel in the Big Three: Redfish, Trout & Flounder

Ready to hit the water and tangle with some of St. Augustine's most prized inshore species? Captain Ty Sikes has you covered with this action-packed 4-hour charter that'll have you casting for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder in the historic city's fish-rich waters. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to hone your skills or a first-timer eager to learn the ropes, this trip is tailored to give you a shot at landing the "St. Augustine Slam." With all the gear provided and Capt. Ty's local know-how, you're in for a day of bent rods and tight lines.

What to Expect on the Water

As you push off from the dock, you'll feel the anticipation building. Capt. Ty knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll have you on the fish in no time. You might start by working the grass flats for redfish, sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water. Then it's off to the deeper holes for some trout action, maybe even hooking into a gator trout if luck's on your side. And don't forget about those doormat flounder lurking near structure – they're the perfect species to round out your day. With a 3-person max, you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with Capt. Ty, picking his brain for tips and tricks to improve your game.

Fishing Techniques & Gear

On this trip, you'll get to try out a variety of inshore fishing techniques. For redfish, you might be throwing soft plastics on a jighead, working them slowly across the bottom to entice a bite. When targeting trout, topwater lures at dawn can lead to explosive strikes that'll get your heart racing. And for those sneaky flounder? Slow-rolling a mullet imitation near dock pilings or oyster beds is the ticket. Capt. Ty provides all the rods, reels, and tackle you'll need, rigged and ready for action. He's got a knack for matching the hatch, so you'll be fishing with the most effective baits for the day's conditions.

Top Catches This Season

While redfish, trout, and flounder are the headliners, don't be surprised if you hook into some bonus species. Black drum and sheepshead love to hang around the same spots, and they put up a great fight on light tackle. For the thrill-seekers, bonnethead and blacktip sharks cruise these waters too, offering a chance at some serious drag-screaming action. Capt. Ty's got a keen eye for spotting fish, so keep your eyes peeled and your line wet – you never know what might decide to bite!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewels of inshore fishing. Known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot on the tail, redfish in St. Augustine can range from slot-sized to over 40 inches. They're most active in the fall, but you can target them year-round. Sight-fishing for tailing reds in shallow water is an experience you won't forget.

Speckled Trout: The wily speckled trout is a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts. These spotted predators are known for their soft mouths and tendency to shake hooks, making them a challenging and rewarding catch. Early morning and late evening are prime times to target trout, especially around grass flats and deeper holes. A big "gator" trout over 20 inches is a true trophy.

Flounder: Don't let their flat appearance fool you – flounder are aggressive ambush predators. These bottom-dwellers can grow to impressive sizes in St. Augustine's waters, with doormat-sized fish over 5 pounds not uncommon. They're masters of camouflage, blending in with the sandy bottom, but Capt. Ty knows just where to find them. Flounder fishing peaks in the fall as they prepare for their annual migration.

Black Drum: Cousins to the redfish, black drum are bulldogs of the flats. They use their sensitive barbels to root out crabs and shellfish, making them suckers for a well-presented crab or shrimp bait. While smaller "puppy drum" are excellent eating, the big ones can top 50 pounds and put up a fight worthy of their size.

Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes and teeth that look like they belong to a farm animal, sheepshead are a unique target. They're notoriously finicky biters, earning the nickname "convict fish" for their ability to steal bait. But when you hook one, their strong pulls and tasty fillets make the challenge worth it.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – though they're a big part of it. St. Augustine's backdrop of historic architecture and pristine coastline makes for a fishing trip that's as much about the experience as it is about the catch. Capt. Ty's easy-going nature and wealth of local knowledge means you're not just getting a guide, but a fishing buddy who's invested in your success. And with the flexibility to extend your trip if you're on a hot bite (and schedules allow), you can really make the most of your time on the water. Plus, with all gear and licenses covered, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a snack or two.

Time to Book Your Spot

Whether you're looking to scratch that fishing itch or want to create lasting memories with friends and family, this St. Augustine charter with Capt. Ty Sikes is your ticket to inshore fishing success. With year-round action and a variety of species to target, there's never a bad time to wet a line. Just remember, spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. And while the deposits are non-refundable, trust us – once you're out there feeling that first tug on the line, you'll be glad you made the commitment. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hat, slap on some sunscreen, and get ready for a day of rod-bending, drag-screaming action on the waters of St. Augustine. Book now and let Capt. Ty put you on the fish of a lifetime!