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Renowned Nearshore & Jetty Fishing in Fernandina
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Fernandina Beach, FL
- $350 - $2,400 price range
Summary
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Rods, Reels, and Catches
Massive Black Drum iced down ❄️🐟
Epic Mahi Mahi weigh-in 🏆🐟
Powerful Redfish offshore 💥🐟
Chunky Black Drum success 🐟
Solid Red Snapper dockside ⚓🐟
Bold Red Snapper offshore 🔴🐟
Proud Grouper catch on Southern Style ⚓🐟
Exciting Redfish catch with the kids 🎣👨👧👦
Sleek offshore-ready ride 🚤
Colorful Mahi catch for the kids 🎣🌈
Massive Black Drum iced down ❄️🐟
Epic Mahi Mahi weigh-in 🏆🐟
Powerful Redfish offshore 💥🐟
Chunky Black Drum success 🐟
Solid Red Snapper dockside ⚓🐟
Bold Red Snapper offshore 🔴🐟
Proud Grouper catch on Southern Style ⚓🐟
Exciting Redfish catch with the kids 🎣👨👧👦
Sleek offshore-ready ride 🚤
Colorful Mahi catch for the kids 🎣🌈
Massive Black Drum iced down ❄️🐟
Epic Mahi Mahi weigh-in 🏆🐟
Powerful Redfish offshore 💥🐟
Chunky Black Drum success 🐟
3/4 Day Nearshore Fishing: Redfish, Cobia & More
Hey there, anglers! Ready for a solid day on the water without committing to a full sunrise-to-sunset trip? Captain Tony Peeples has got you covered with this 3/4 day fishing adventure out of Fernandina Beach. We'll be hitting the jetties and nearshore spots where the big boys hang out. This trip is perfect for folks who want to maximize their time fishing but still have some daylight left for other plans. Whether you're chasing that trophy redfish or looking to tangle with a hard-fighting cobia, we've got the know-how and the spots to make it happen.
What to Expect on the Water
Climb aboard our 31-foot vessel, custom-rigged for these waters, and we'll head out with up to 6 of your crew. We're talking prime fishing grounds just a short run from the dock. Depending on what's biting, we might start at the jetties where the redfish and black drum love to hang out, or we could push a bit further out to where the cobia and jacks cruise. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility – we go where the fish are! And don't sweat the gear; we've got top-notch rods, reels, and all the tackle you'll need. Bait? Check. Licenses? We've got those covered too. Just bring your game face and maybe a snack or two.
Techniques & Terrain
Alright, let's talk shop. When we're working the jetties, we might be using live bait or tossing lures right up against the rocks. It's all about precision and reading the water. For those big reds and black drum, sometimes a chunk of blue crab does the trick. If we're chasing cobia, keep your eyes peeled – these curious fish often follow rays near the surface, and a well-placed bucktail jig can seal the deal. Out in the nearshore waters, we might switch it up to some light trolling or bottom fishing, depending on what's hot. The name of the game is versatility, and that's what makes this trip a blast. You'll pick up new techniques and maybe even find your new favorite way to fish these waters.
Top Catches This Season
The local fishing scene's been on fire lately. We've had folks pulling in bull reds that'll make your arms ache, and the cobia runs have been nothing short of spectacular when they're in season. One group last week hooked into a school of jack crevalle that had their reels screaming. It's not uncommon to see a mixed bag by the end of the trip – maybe a couple of nice black drum for the dinner table, a feisty red for a photo op, and if we're lucky, a cobia that'll have you grinning for days. Every trip's different, and that's what keeps our regulars coming back for more.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Let's break down some of the heavy hitters you might tangle with on this trip. First up, redfish – these copper-colored beauties are a staple in our waters. They love structure and put up a mean fight, especially the big bulls that can top 40 inches. Look for them tailing in shallow water or hanging near the jetties. Cobia, also known as ling or lemonfish, are the prize fighters of the nearshore waters. They're curious and strong, often following boats or hanging around structure. These guys can grow over 100 pounds and will test your tackle and your stamina.
Black drum are the bulldogs of the bunch. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but what they lack in looks, they make up for in fight. Smaller ones make great table fare, while the big ones over 30 pounds are catch-and-release trophies. Jack crevalle, or just 'jacks' as we call them, are pure muscle. When a school blows up on bait, it's like watching a bar fight on the water. They're not great eating, but pound-for-pound, they're some of the hardest fighting fish you'll hook into.
Depending on the season, we might also run into some king mackerel or even mahi-mahi if we venture a bit further out. Kings are speed demons that'll make a reel sing, while mahi are acrobatic fighters that light up with electric blue and green colors when they're fired up. Both make for excellent eating if you're looking to fill the cooler.
Time to Book Your Spot
Look, if you're itching to get out on the water and put some bend in your rod, this 3/4 day trip with Southern Sport Fishing Charters is your ticket. We've got the local knowledge, the right gear, and a boat that'll get you where the fish are biting. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, Captain Tony will make sure you're in the action. Remember, we're limited to 6 spots per trip, so don't wait too long to lock in your date. The fish are out there, and they're not catching themselves! Give us a call, and let's get you hooked up with some of Fernandina Beach's finest. Trust me, once you feel that first big hit, you'll be planning your next trip before we even hit the dock. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are tough fighters that'll test your gear. They usually run 5-30 pounds, but can get up to 90. You'll find them around oyster beds, mudflats, and inlets in shallow water. Spring is prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love 'em for the strong pull and good eating, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. The meat gets tough in bigger fish. To catch one, use fresh crab or clams on the bottom. Listen close and you might hear their distinctive drumming sound underwater. For best results, fish the incoming tide near structure and be ready for a battle when they hit. Just remember to check local regs, as there's often a slot limit to protect the breeders.
Cobia
Cobia are brutes that'll test your tackle and your back. They average 30-50 pounds but can top 100. You'll find them around structure like buoys, wrecks, and even big rays in 30-70 foot depths. Spring and early summer are prime as they migrate. Anglers love cobia for their powerful runs and excellent eating quality. To catch one, sight fish with big jigs or live eels. My favorite trick is to chum them up, then pitch a live bait. Be ready for a lengthy battle - cobia have serious stamina. The meat is firm and white, great for grilling. Just check regulations, as there are often size and bag limits. Overall, they're a prized catch that'll make you earn every inch of line.
Crevalle Jack
Crevalle Jacks are bulldogs of the ocean. They typically run 3-5 pounds but can hit 60. You'll find them both inshore and offshore, often busting bait on the surface. They're around year-round but really fire up in summer. Anglers love 'em for their brutal strength and nonstop fight. To catch one, look for birds working bait schools and cast big topwater lures or live bait. My go-to trick is a fast retrieve - Jacks love the chase. Just be ready for the hit, it's like getting your arm ripped off. They're not great eating, so most folks release 'em. But pound-for-pound, there's not much that fights harder than a Jack. Bring your heavy tackle and be prepared for a workout.
King Mackerel
King Mackerel are speed demons that'll make your reel scream. They typically run 15-30 pounds but can top 90. Look for them in 40-150 foot depths near bait schools. Spring and fall migrations are prime time. Anglers go nuts for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. To land one, troll with big spoons or live bait like blue runners. Keep an eye out for birds working the surface - that's a dead giveaway Kings are feeding. My go-to trick is slow-trolling a live bait beneath the school. Just be careful handling them - those razor teeth are no joke. Kings make good eating too, just don't overdo it due to mercury. Overall, they're an exciting gamefish that'll test your skills and gear.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi Mahi are one of the prettiest fish you'll ever see, with electric blue and green colors. They average 15-30 pounds but can hit 60+. You'll find them in warm offshore waters near floating debris and weed lines. Summer is prime time when the water warms up. Anglers love Mahi for their acrobatic fights and excellent table fare. To catch 'em, troll near floating structure with ballyhoo or squid. My favorite trick is to keep the first one you hook in the water - it'll attract the whole school. Mahi are lightning fast, so be ready for screaming runs. The meat is mild and flaky, great for grilling or fish tacos. Just remember to ice them down quick to keep that quality. Overall, they're a blast to catch and delicious to eat.
About the Southern Sport Fishing Charter
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzukis
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 300
