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Top-Rated Jetty Fishing in Fernandina Beach
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Fernandina Beach, FL
- $350 - $2,400 price range
Summary
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Jetty Fishing Action
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 🐟
Reel in the Action: Half Day Jetty Fishing
Ready for some rod-bending action without the long haul offshore? Captain Tony Peeples of Southern Sport Fishing Charters has you covered with this half-day jetty fishing trip right here in Fernandina Beach. You'll be casting lines along the rock-lined inlets where the big boys hang out, all while soaking up the coastal scenery. This trip is perfect for anglers of all levels looking to tangle with some hard-fighting fish without spending a full day on the water.
What to Expect on the Water
Climb aboard Captain Tony's 31-footer, a roomy vessel that'll comfortably fit you and up to 5 of your fishing buddies. We'll cruise out to the jetties, those long rocky structures that create fish magnets along the coast. These spots are like underwater buffets for fish, so you can expect steady action throughout your trip. Depending on the season and conditions, we'll be targeting bruisers like Redfish, Black Drum, and Jack Crevalle. The crew's got you covered with all the gear, bait, and know-how you'll need - just bring your game face and maybe a snack or two.
Jetty Jigging 101
Fishing the jetties is a bit of an art form, and Captain Tony's got it down to a science. We'll be using a mix of techniques, from bottom fishing with cut bait to tossing lures along the rocks. The key is getting your bait or lure right in the strike zone where the fish are hiding out. You might be dropping a weighted rig to the bottom for Black Drum one minute, then casting a topwater plug for Redfish the next. It's this variety that keeps jetty fishing exciting - you never know what's going to hit next. And don't worry if you're new to this style of fishing; the crew's always happy to show you the ropes and help you land that trophy catch.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Black Drum: These bruisers are like the bulldogs of the jetties. They're known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights. Black Drum can grow to hefty sizes, with some old-timers tipping the scales at over 50 pounds. They love hanging around structure and will readily take crabs or shrimp. The best part? They're great eating when caught in the smaller to medium size range.
Redfish: Also known as Red Drum, these copper-colored beauties are a staple of inshore fishing. They're famous for their distinctive spot near the tail and their willingness to put up a good scrap. Redfish are savvy predators, often cruising the jetties in search of crabs, shrimp, and small fish. When you hook into a big "bull" red, hold on tight - they've got some serious pulling power.
King Mackerel: While we're focusing on the jetties, sometimes the Kings come in close, especially in the warmer months. These speedsters are like the greyhounds of the sea, known for blistering runs that'll have your reel singing. Trolling with live bait or casting lures can entice these toothy predators to strike.
Mahi Mahi: Also called Dorado or Dolphinfish (no relation to Flipper), these acrobatic fish are a bonus catch that might show up if we venture a bit further out. Known for their dazzling colors and aerial displays, hooking into a Mahi is always a thrill. They're also some of the tastiest fish in the sea, so fingers crossed we run into a school.
Cobia: These curious fish are like the puppy dogs of the ocean - they're known to follow boats and even swim right up to investigate. Don't let their friendly demeanor fool you though; when hooked, Cobia put up a stubborn, powerful fight. They love structure, so the jetties can be prime territory for these hard-fighting fish.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
There's something special about jetty fishing that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the way the waves crash against the rocks, creating that perfect white noise backdrop for a day of fishing. Or perhaps it's the thrill of never knowing what might be lurking just on the other side of that next boulder. Whatever it is, this trip offers a perfect mix of action, scenery, and the chance to land some real quality fish without having to venture miles offshore. It's an ideal outing for families, groups of friends, or even solo anglers looking to join in on a shared charter.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're itching to bend a rod and feel that distinctive thump of a big fish taking the bait, this half-day jetty trip is calling your name. Captain Tony and the crew at Southern Sport Fishing Charters have the local knowledge and experience to put you on the fish, whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line. Remember, all the gear is provided, so you just need to show up ready for action. Spots on these trips tend to fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give them a call, and get ready to make some waves (and hopefully land some lunkers) on your next Fernandina Beach fishing adventure. Just keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so choose your date wisely. Tight lines, and we'll see you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Cobia are some of the most impressive fish we target around here. These bruisers can grow over 6 feet long and top 100 pounds. You'll often spot them cruising near the surface, sometimes mistaken for sharks because of their size and single dorsal fin. We usually find cobia hanging around structure like reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-70 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime time as they migrate through. Anglers love cobia for their hard fights and excellent eating - the meat is firm with a mild flavor. To land one, try sight fishing with bucktail jigs or live bait. A local tip: keep an eye out for rays, as cobia often follow them looking for an easy meal. Once you hook up, be ready for some serious pulling - these fish don't give up easily!
Cobia
Black drum are the redfish's bigger, uglier cousins. These bottom-dwellers can grow over 90 pounds, though eating-size fish are 5-15 pounds. We find them year-round in our bays and around jetties, often in surprisingly shallow water. Black drum love crustaceans, so fresh crab or shrimp are top baits. Anglers target them for their strong fights and good table fare, especially the smaller ones. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. To catch them, try a simple bottom rig with fresh bait around oyster beds or pier pilings. A local tip: listen for their distinctive "drumming" sound - it's how they communicate and can lead you right to a school. Just be ready for some serious pulling when you hook into a big one!
King Mackerel
Mahi mahi are a sight to behold with their electric blue and gold colors. We typically find them in the warmer months, hanging around floating debris and weed lines offshore. These fish grow fast but don't live long, averaging 15-30 pounds. Mahi are prized for their acrobatic fights and delicious mild, white meat. They're aggressive feeders and will hit just about any bait or lure. Trolling with ballyhoo or squid works well, but my favorite is casting light tackle to a school - the action can be non-stop. Keep an eye out for frigate birds, as they'll lead you right to the fish. A local trick is to keep a "teaser" mahi hooked but in the water - it'll often keep the whole school around the boat. Just be ready for chaos when multiple rods go off at once!
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
King mackerel are one of our fastest fish, known for blistering runs that'll smoke a drag. We usually find them in 40-150 feet of water, often around bait schools. These toothy predators average 15-30 pounds but can top 90. Kingfish are migratory, so timing is key - late spring and early fall are often best. Anglers love kings for their speed and aerial acrobatics when hooked. They're also good eating when prepared right. Trolling with live bait like blue runners or dead cigar minnows is effective. A local trick: use a stinger rig with two hooks, as kings are notorious for short-striking baits. When a king hits, don't set the hook - just start reeling and hold on tight!
Redfish
Redfish are a staple around our jetties and flats. These copper-colored bruisers with the distinctive tail spot can range from a few pounds to over 40. We find them year-round, but fall is prime time as they school up. Redfish love shallow water - sometimes you'll see their backs out of the water as they chase bait in just a foot or two. They're not picky eaters, hitting everything from live bait to artificial lures. Anglers love redfish for their strong runs and excellent table fare. To target them, try working a gold spoon or scented soft plastic along oyster beds and grass flats. One local tip: on calm days, look for their copper backs or tails sticking out of the water as they feed - it's called "tailing" and makes for some exciting sight fishing.
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
