Ready for some real Port Orange action without burning a whole day? Our 5-hour inshore charter hits that sweet spot. We'll cruise the rich waters around Ponce Inlet, where the fish are always biting and the scenery never disappoints. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add some Florida species to your list or a family wanting to make some splashy memories, this trip's got you covered. With Top Notch Adventures, you're not just booking a fishing trip – you're signing up for a slice of Florida's finest inshore experience.
As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel the excitement build. We're talking primo fishing grounds just minutes away, so we waste no time getting to where the action is. Captain Aaron knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's always got a few tricks up his sleeve to put you on the fish. We'll hit a mix of spots – from oyster beds where redfish love to hunt, to deeper channels where black drum hang out. And don't be surprised if we tangle with a shark or two – they're not shy around here! The gear's all top-notch, so you can focus on the fun part: reeling 'em in.
On this trip, we're all about light tackle and big results. We'll use a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what's working best that day. You might find yourself sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows, or dropping a line near structure for some hefty black drum. Flounder fishing is an art form here, and we've got it down to a science. We'll show you how to work a jig just right to entice these flatfish out of hiding. And if the sharks are around, hold onto your rod – the fights are fast and furious! Don't worry if you're new to this; Captain Aaron's got the patience of a saint and loves showing folks the ropes.
Listen, every charter's different, but lately, we've been crushing it. Had a family out last week that put three slot redfish in the boat within the first hour. A couple days ago, a father-son duo hooked into a blacktip shark that had the kid grinning ear to ear. And just yesterday, we found a honey hole of flounder that kept us busy all morning. The fishing's been hot, and we're riding that wave!
Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are the stars of our inshore show. They pull like freight trains and love to hang around structure. In the fall, we see some real bulls cruising the flats – talking 30-pounders that'll test your drag and your biceps. They're suckers for a well-presented live shrimp or a gold spoon flashed in front of their noses.
Blacktip Shark: When these guys show up, it's game on. Blacktips are like the sports cars of the shark world – fast, agile, and boy do they jump! We usually find them in the 3 to 5 foot range, perfect for some heart-pumping action without overwhelming the light tackle. They're around most of the year, but summer's when they really turn on.
Southern Flounder: Don't let their flat looks fool you – these are some of the tastiest fish in the sea. Flounder are ambush predators, lying in wait on sandy bottoms. We target them with special jigs, bouncing them along the bottom. It takes a bit of finesse, but when you get it right, the reward is a delicious dinner. Fall's the prime time when they fatten up for their offshore migration.
Gag Grouper: While we're inshore, we sometimes venture to nearshore reefs where gags hang out. These bruisers will try to drag you back into their rocky lairs, so it's a true test of skill to turn their heads. They're most active in cooler months, and there's nothing quite like the thump when a big gag hits your bait.
Black Drum: The bulldogs of the inshore world, black drum are all about the fight. They love hanging around bridges and deep holes, and when hooked, they dig in like their lives depend on it. We catch 'em year-round, but winter sees some real giants move in – we're talking 50+ pounders that'll make your arms ache in the best way possible.
Look, I could go on all day about the fish we catch and the good times we have, but nothing beats experiencing it yourself. This 5-hour trip is the perfect taste of what Port Orange inshore fishing is all about. Whether you're looking to put some fish in the cooler or just want to feel that rod bend, we've got you covered. Captain Aaron's been doing this for years, and he's got that magic touch for finding fish and making sure everyone has a blast. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, the boat's ready, and we've got a spot with your name on it. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the water for some of the best inshore action Florida has to offer. Trust me, once you feel that first tug on the line, you'll be hooked – pun absolutely intended!
Southern flounder are masters of camouflage, blending right into sandy or muddy bottoms. You'll find 'em in coastal waters, bays, and estuaries up to about 20 feet deep. Most run 15-18 inches, but they can grow over 30. These flatfish are ambush predators, lying in wait to snatch up passing baitfish. Fall's the best time as they move to spawn, but you can catch 'em year-round. They're not known for big fights, but the challenge is in the hunt. Spotting and presenting a bait to a well-hidden flounder takes skill. Plus, they're delicious - some of the best eating fish out there. For best results, try drifting or slow-trolling with live bait like mullet or shrimp. Work it right along the bottom. Here's a pro tip: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder time to get the bait in its mouth, then reel down and lift.
Blacktip sharks are fast, acrobatic predators that'll get your heart racing. You'll spot 'em cruising the shallows and around inlets, usually in 20-60 feet of water. Most run 4-5 feet long, but they can hit 9 feet. These sharks are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. Summer's prime time as they follow bait schools inshore. Blacktips give an incredible fight, often jumping clear out of the water multiple times. It's catch-and-release only, but the thrill of battling one of these rockets is unforgettable. For bait, oily fish like mackerel or mullet work best. Use a wire leader and circle hook on a heavy spinning setup. Here's an insider tip: chum the water to bring them in close, then cast a live bait into the mix. When you see that black-tipped fin cutting the surface, hold on tight!
Black drums are hefty bottom-feeders that put up a solid fight. You'll find 'em hanging around oyster beds, mudflats, and inlets in 5-30 feet of water. They love crushing shellfish with those powerful jaws. Most run 5-30 pounds, but the big ones can top 90! Spring's prime time as they school up to spawn. Listen for that distinctive drumming sound they make. For bait, fresh crab is king - it'll outfish anything else and won't get picked off by bait-stealers. Fish it on the bottom with enough weight to hold in the current. The smaller ones under 15 pounds eat great, but release the big boys - they get tough and lose flavor. One local trick: scout creek mouths on a falling tide. The drums stack up to ambush prey getting washed out.
Gag groupers are hard-fighting reef fish that'll test your tackle. You'll find 'em around rocky bottoms, reefs, and wrecks from 60 to 250 feet deep. They average 20 inches but can grow over 50. These ambush predators use their large mouths to inhale prey whole. Summer and fall are prime seasons before they move to deeper water. Gags are prized for their strong runs - they'll dive for cover the second they're hooked. Pound for pound, they're some of the strongest fish out there. Oh, and they make for excellent eating too. Live bait like pinfish or squid works great. Drop it right into structure and be ready. Here's a local trick: when you hook one, keep your rod tip low and crank hard. Don't give 'em an inch or they'll bury you in the rocks. It's all about winning those first few seconds of the fight.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Honda
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 135