Get ready to wet a line in some of Florida's most productive inshore waters! Captain Mark Haley knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on the fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for a challenge or a newbie hoping to land your first big catch, this 4-hour private trip has got you covered. We'll be hitting the sweet spots around Daytona Beach and Ponce Inlet, where the redfish, snook, and tarpon are always biting. And hey, if you're feeling adventurous, we might even tangle with some hefty sharks. So grab your hat and sunscreen – it's time to make some memories on the water!
Picture this: You're cruising through crystal-clear Florida waters, the sun warming your face as Captain Mark points out a rolling tarpon in the distance. That's the kind of day you're in for on this trip. We'll start by getting you set up with top-notch gear – all the rods, reels, and tackle you need are included. No need to lug your own stuff around or worry about having the right setup. As we hit our first spot, Captain Mark will give you the lowdown on the area and what we're targeting. He's got a knack for reading the water and putting clients on fish, so listen up! Whether you want to cast all day or just enjoy the ride, we'll tailor the experience to your style. And don't worry if you're new to this – Captain Mark's got the patience of a saint and loves showing folks the ropes.
We've got a few tricks up our sleeve to make sure you're hooking up all day. Depending on the tide and what's biting, we might start by tossing live bait around the mangroves for snook. These guys are ambush predators, so accuracy is key – Captain Mark will show you how to drop that bait right in their kitchen. If the redfish are tailing on the flats, we'll switch to sight fishing. There's nothing quite like watching a big red crush your lure in skinny water. For tarpon, we might need to change gears and use heavier tackle. These silver kings can top 100 pounds, so be ready for a workout! And if you're up for it, we can always drop some chunky baits for sharks. The sandbar and spinner sharks in this area put up one heck of a fight. Throughout the day, Captain Mark will be right there with you, offering tips on your technique and making sure you're having a blast.
Snook are the rockstars of inshore fishing around here. These wily predators love to hang out near structure, using their stripes as camouflage. They're known for explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps that'll have your heart racing. Spring and fall are prime times to target snook, but they're around all year. Just remember, they can be finicky eaters, so sometimes you've got to finesse 'em.
Tarpon, oh boy. These prehistoric beasts are the stuff of fishing legend. We're talking about fish that can top 150 pounds and leap clear out of the water. They migrate through our area in the late spring and summer, offering anglers the fight of a lifetime. Hooking one is tough enough, but landing a tarpon? That's a real accomplishment. Be ready for long runs and jaw-dropping aerial displays.
Redfish are the bread and butter of inshore fishing in Florida. These copper-colored beauties are known for their distinctive spot near the tail. In the shallows, you might see them "tailing" – their tails sticking out of the water as they root for crabs on the bottom. They're aggressive feeders and put up a stubborn fight. Fall is the best time to target big bulls, but you can catch reds year-round here.
Spinner sharks are like the acrobats of the shark world. They're named for their habit of leaping out of the water and spinning like a top – a sight you won't soon forget. These sharks can reach up to 9 feet long and are known for their speed and agility. We typically encounter them in the spring and summer months.
Sandbar sharks are the bruisers of our local waters. They're not as flashy as the spinners, but what they lack in acrobatics, they make up for in raw power. These sharks can grow over 8 feet long and will test your stamina with long, powerful runs. They're around all year, but summer is prime time for big ones.
Folks who fish with Captain Mark tend to become repeat customers, and it's easy to see why. First off, the guy knows his stuff. He's been fishing these waters for decades and has a sixth sense for where the fish are holding. But it's not just about catching fish – though you'll do plenty of that. It's about the whole experience. Captain Mark's got a way of making everyone feel comfortable on the boat, whether you're a pro or it's your first time holding a rod. He's full of local knowledge and fishing stories that'll keep you entertained between bites. And let's not forget the scenery – from dolphins playing in the wake to ospreys diving for their dinner, there's always something to see out here. By the end of the trip, you won't just have a cooler full of fish (if you choose to keep any), you'll have a new appreciation for this slice of Florida paradise.
Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're looking for a top-notch inshore fishing experience in the Daytona Beach area, you've found it. Captain Mark's trips are in high demand, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Whether you're a local looking for a new honey hole or a visitor wanting to add some adventure to your beach vacation, this trip delivers. Remember, it's a private charter for up to two people, so you'll get plenty of one-on-one attention and the flexibility to fish how you want. All the gear is provided, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a snack or two). Give Captain Mark a call now to check availability and rates. Trust me, after a day on the water with him, you'll be planning your next trip before you even hit the dock. So what are you waiting for? Those fish aren't going to catch themselves!
Redfish are a staple of Florida inshore fishing. They typically run 18-32 inches and 5-15 pounds, though trophy "bull reds" can top 40 inches. You'll find them in shallow flats, oyster bars, and mangroves in 1-4 feet of water. They love to tail in shallow water, giving away their location. Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and dogged fights. They're also great eating fish. Live bait like shrimp or mullet works well, but artificial lures are very effective too. One local trick: look for "pushes" of water on calm days - that's often a redfish cruising the shallows. Cast in front of the push and work your lure back. When a redfish hits, it's usually a solid thump followed by a strong run. Be ready to loosen your drag!
Sandbar sharks are one of the larger coastal sharks, typically running 6-8 feet and 100-200 pounds. You'll find them in deeper coastal waters, usually 60-200 feet deep near drop-offs or reefs. They're most active at night, moving into shallower waters to feed. Sandbar sharks are known for their powerful runs and dogged fights. While not as acrobatic as some sharks, they'll test your stamina. Heavy tackle is a must. Live bait like bluefish or mackerel works well. One local trick: use an oily fish like bonito as chum to draw them in. When a sandbar shark takes the bait, let it run before setting the hook. These sharks have tough mouths, so a solid hookset is key. Be ready for a long battle - sandbars don't give up easily!
Snook are one of Florida's most prized inshore gamefish. They typically run 24-34 inches and 5-15 pounds, but can reach over 40 inches. You'll find them around mangroves, docks, and inlets in 1-15 feet of water. Snook love structure and ambush prey from the shadows. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move between inshore and nearshore waters. Anglers love snook for their hard strikes and acrobatic fights. Live bait like pilchards or pinfish works great, but artificial lures can be just as effective. When using lures, try working them slowly and erratically right up against structure - that often triggers a reaction strike from a hiding snook. Be ready for an explosive hit and immediate run towards cover. Landing a big snook takes patience and skill, which is why they're such a popular target.
Spinner sharks are one of the most exciting sharks to catch inshore. They typically run 5-7 feet and 100-200 pounds. True to their name, they often leap and spin when hooked. You'll find them in coastal waters 20-100 feet deep, often chasing bait schools near the surface. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Spinners put on an incredible aerial show, making multiple leaps. They're fast, powerful fighters that will test your gear and skills. Live bait like mullet or bluefish works well. One local tip: when you see bait schools getting nervous, that's often spinners feeding below. Toss a live bait on the edge of the school and hang on! Just be ready for the initial run and jumps - that's when most hooks pull free.
Tarpon are the ultimate gamefish - big, powerful, and acrobatic. Adults typically run 4-6 feet long and 80-150 pounds. You'll find them in coastal waters, inlets, and even up rivers. Spring and early summer are prime times as they migrate along the coast. Tarpon feed on bait schools near the surface, often rolling and gulping air. When hooked, they put on an incredible aerial show, leaping repeatedly. Landing one takes patience and skill - expect long runs and jumps that can throw hooks. Live bait like mullet or crabs works well, but artificial lures and flies can be effective too. One local tip: when you see tarpon rolling, cast beyond them and retrieve through the school. A well-placed lure often triggers a bite. Just be ready to hold on - hooking a tarpon is like being tied to a Volkswagen with a bad attitude!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3
Manufacturer Name: mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 90