Get ready to cast your line into the rich waters of Steinhatchee, Florida! This 4-hour charter trip is your ticket to some of the best inshore fishing the Gulf Coast has to offer. Whether you're after the elusive sea trout or hoping to land a trophy redfish, Captain Ty Sikes knows exactly where to find the hot spots. And if you're up for it, we'll even show you the ropes of scalloping in the crystal-clear shallows. It's a day on the water that's tailor-made for anglers of all stripes, from seasoned pros to first-timers just getting their feet wet.
As soon as you step aboard, you'll feel the excitement in the air. We'll cruise out to some of Steinhatchee's most productive fishing grounds, where the action rarely disappoints. You'll have the chance to try different techniques, from light tackle fishing for trout to sight-casting for redfish in the flats. And don't worry if you're new to this – Captain Ty's got a knack for making even rookie anglers feel like old pros. With room for up to three guests, it's the perfect size for a family outing or a small group of friends looking to test their angling skills.
On this trip, we'll mix it up between fishing and scalloping, depending on what's biting and what you're in the mood for. For fishing, we'll often use live bait or artificial lures, working the grass flats and oyster bars where the fish love to hang out. When it comes to scalloping, we'll wade into waist-deep water with masks and snorkels, scooping up these tasty bivalves by hand. It's like an underwater Easter egg hunt, and trust me, once you start, it's hard to stop! Just remember, we practice catch-and-release for most fish, but if you're lucky enough to land a keeper, we'll make sure you know how to handle it right.
Sea trout are the stars of the show in Steinhatchee. These speckled beauties are known for their aggressive strikes and tasty fillets. They hang out in the grass flats and can be caught year-round, but the fall and spring are prime time. Trout love to hit topwater lures early in the morning – there's nothing quite like seeing a big speck explode on your lure as the sun comes up.
Redfish are another local favorite, and for good reason. These copper-colored brutes can put up a fight that'll have your drag singing. We target them in the shallow flats, often sight-fishing for tailing reds in less than a foot of water. The thrill of watching a redfish chase down your lure is hard to beat. They're most active in the warmer months, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look.
While trout and reds are our main targets, don't be surprised if you hook into some other inshore species like flounder, sheepshead, or even the occasional snook. Each one offers its own unique challenge and excitement.
Folks who fish with Captain Ty tend to become repeat customers, and it's easy to see why. It's not just about the fish – though there are plenty of those. It's about the whole experience. The way the sun rises over the Gulf, painting the sky in oranges and pinks. The sight of a pod of dolphins playing in our wake. The satisfaction of learning new techniques and applying them successfully. And of course, the stories and laughs shared on the boat. Every trip is different, but they all have one thing in common – they're a blast.
If you're itching to get out on the water and see what Steinhatchee's fishing scene is all about, now's the time to lock in your trip. Remember, we've only got room for three, so spots fill up fast – especially during peak seasons. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with trout, battle it out with a bull red, or try your hand at scalloping, this 4-hour charter has got you covered. Just keep in mind that the deposit is non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book. Give Captain Ty a shout, and let's get you out there where the fish are biting and the scallops are plentiful. Trust me, it's a day on the water you won't soon forget!
Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a blast to catch in our waters. Most run 14-20 inches, though trophy-sized gators over 24 inches aren't unheard of. These silvery, spotted fish hang out in grass flats, channels, and around structure in 3-6 feet of water. Spring and fall are your best bets, especially around dawn and dusk when they're most active. Trout are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights - they'll often jump clear out of the water. Anglers prize them for both the sporting challenge and their mild, flaky meat. To land a nice trout, try drifting live shrimp under a popping cork over grass flats. Work it with short, sharp jerks to mimic a fleeing baitfish. The trout can't resist. When the bite's on, it's not uncommon to catch your limit pretty quick. Just remember to handle them gently if you're releasing - their mouths are soft and tear easily.
Redfish, or red drum, are a favorite target around here. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches but can grow over 40 inches in deeper water. You'll find them prowling the shallows - we're talking 1-4 feet of water over grass flats, oyster bars, and muddy bottoms. They love to hunt along shorelines, especially at high tide. Fall is prime time as redfish school up to spawn. That's when you can really get into some action. Anglers love targeting reds for their strong fights and excellent table fare. Their light, sweet flavor makes for some tasty fillets. If you want to hook into one, try working a gold spoon or scented soft plastic along grass edges during a falling tide. The redfish will be looking for crabs and baitfish getting flushed out. Oh, and keep an eye out for their signature tail - you might spot one tailing in shallow water if you're lucky.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 115