Boca Grande Fishing Charters
HomeTrips & RatesGalleryReviewsReportsTarget SpeciesMeet the Captain

Learn More

My Trips

World-Class 8-Hour Inshore Fishing in Boca Grande

  • Published Date: July 18, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Placida, FL
  • $800 - $1,400 price range
  • Updated Date: October 19, 2025

Summary

Captain John's 8-hour inshore fishing charter in Boca Grande is a full day of action on the water. You'll be targeting a mix of local species like snook, redfish, trout, jacks, and snapper in the productive inshore waters around Boca Grande. The trip is flexible, so you can start at a time that works for you and focus on the fish you're most interested in catching. Whether you're new to fishing or have years of experience, Captain John provides all the gear and knowledge you need for a successful day. With room for up to 4 anglers, it's a great option for small groups or families looking to spend quality time fishing together. You'll get to explore some of the best fishing spots in the area while learning techniques from an experienced local guide.
World-Class 8-Hour Inshore Fishing in Boca Grande

Inshore Catch Highlights

previous-image
A single angler holding a 24-inch catch in FL

Angler with a 21-inch fish in Florida

A person fishing in Placida

Angler fishing in Placida

A person fishing for a snook in Placida

Hooked up and reeling in big snook off Boca Grande Pass

Two redfish caught in Placida

Perfect day chasing redfish in Boca Grande

Snook caught while fishing in FL

Sunrise bite heating up in Boca Grande waters

Photograph of a snook fish being caught while fishing in Placida

Big smiles and bigger snook in Boca Grande today

Redfish caught while fishing in FL

Boca Grande anglers landing trophy fish this morning

Snook caught while fishing in Placida

Calm seas and steady action on the Boca Grande flats

A single angler holding a 24-inch catch in FL

Angler with a 21-inch fish in Florida

A person fishing in Placida

Angler fishing in Placida

A person fishing for a snook in Placida

Hooked up and reeling in big snook off Boca Grande Pass

Two redfish caught in Placida

Perfect day chasing redfish in Boca Grande

Snook caught while fishing in FL

Sunrise bite heating up in Boca Grande waters

Photograph of a snook fish being caught while fishing in Placida

Big smiles and bigger snook in Boca Grande today

Redfish caught while fishing in FL

Boca Grande anglers landing trophy fish this morning

Snook caught while fishing in Placida

Calm seas and steady action on the Boca Grande flats

A single angler holding a 24-inch catch in FL

Angler with a 21-inch fish in Florida

A person fishing in Placida

Angler fishing in Placida

next-image

Reel in the Big One: Inshore Fishing Boca Grande

Ready to hook into some of Florida's most prized inshore species? Captain John's got you covered with this full-day charter that'll have you casting for snook, redfish, and trout in the rich waters around Boca Grande. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this 8-hour trip is your ticket to some of the best inshore action the Sunshine State has to offer. We're talking about the kind of fishing that'll have you grinning from ear to ear and maybe even landing that personal best you've been chasing.

What's the Deal?

Alright, here's the scoop: You and up to three buddies will hop aboard Captain John's skiff for a full day of inshore fishing. We're talking 8 solid hours on the water, targeting everything from the wily snook to the hard-fighting redfish. The beauty of this trip? It's all about flexibility. Want to focus on sight fishing the flats for tailing reds? No problem. Prefer to work the mangroves for snook? Captain John's got you. And don't worry about gear – all the tackle and licenses are covered. Just bring your game face and maybe a sandwich or two, 'cause we'll be out there putting in work.

Fishing the Flats and Backwaters

Now, let's talk tactics. Inshore fishing in Boca Grande is all about finesse and reading the water. We might start the day tossing soft plastics along mangrove shorelines for snook, using that natural tide movement to our advantage. As the sun climbs, we could switch it up and drift the grass flats, sight-casting to redfish with gold spoons or live bait. And don't sleep on those deep holes where the big trout like to hang out – a well-placed jig can turn into a real tug-of-war with a gator trout. Captain John's been doing this for years, so he knows all the honey holes and how to work them just right. Whether it's free-lining live bait, working a topwater plug, or jigging the deeper cuts, we'll use whatever method is getting the job done on any given day.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, there's a reason why Boca Grande is a top spot for inshore fishing. The variety here is insane. One minute you're battling a bull red in skinny water, the next you're trying to keep a snook from wrapping you around a dock piling. And let's not forget about those jack crevalle that'll test your drag and your biceps. Plus, with Captain John at the helm, you're not just fishing – you're learning. He's always down to share tips on reading the water, perfecting your cast, or figuring out what the fish want on any given day. It's the kind of knowledge that'll up your game, whether you're a weekend warrior or a die-hard angler.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Snook: These are the rock stars of inshore fishing. Snook are ambush predators with a serious attitude. They love to hang around structure – mangroves, docks, you name it. The thrill of seeing a big linesider come out from under cover to crush your bait is hard to beat. They're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps, so keep that rod tip up! Best time to target them? Spring and fall, when they're moving between their summer and winter haunts.

Redfish: Ah, the redfish – or red drum if you're feeling fancy. These copper-colored beauties are a sight to behold, especially when you spot them tailing on the flats. They've got a soft spot in their mouths, which makes for some exciting hook sets. Reds can grow to bull size, giving you a real workout on light tackle. They're around all year, but fall is prime time when they school up in big numbers.

Spotted Seatrout: Don't let the name fool you – these aren't your average trout. Spotted seatrout, or "specks" as the locals call 'em, are more closely related to redfish and put up a great fight. They're known for their delicate bite and tendency to throw hooks, so stay sharp! Winter is often the best time to land the big ones, affectionately known as "gator trout."

Jack Crevalle: If you're looking for a drag-screaming good time, jacks are your fish. These guys are like the bulldogs of the inshore world – all muscle and no quit. They might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but hook into one and you'll be grinning from ear to ear. Jacks can show up any time of year, often busting bait on the surface. When that happens, hold on tight!

Time to Wet a Line

Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're itching to bend a rod and feel that tug on the other end, this Boca Grande inshore trip is calling your name. With Captain John's know-how and these fish-rich waters, you're in for a day of non-stop action. Whether you're dreaming of that slot redfish for the dinner table or just want to release a bunch of snook, this is your chance. The boat's gassed up, the bait well's full, and the fish are waiting. All that's missing is you. So why not grab your spot on the bow and make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime? Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not booking sooner. Let's go fishing!

Learn more about the species

Crevalle Jack

Crevalle jacks are the muscle cars of our local waters. These bruisers usually range from 3-15 pounds inshore, but can top 30 pounds offshore. You'll often spot them busting bait on the surface - just look for the birds diving. Jacks are pure power, known for blistering runs that'll test your drag and your arms. They're not the best eating, but pound-for-pound, few fish fight harder. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they chase bait schools through the area. They'll hit just about anything that moves, from topwater lures to jigs. Here's a local trick: if you see a jack school feeding, cast past them and retrieve quickly through the frenzy. Hold on tight!

Crevalle Jack

Redfish

Redfish, or red drum, are the bulldogs of the flats. These copper-colored brutes typically run 20-30 inches inshore, but can grow over 40 inches in the open water. You'll spot them tailing in shallow water, often so shallow their backs are out of the water. They love to cruise along oyster bars and mangrove shorelines, especially on a rising tide. Redfish put up a stubborn fight, using their broad tail to power away from the boat. They're great sport on light tackle and fly gear. The bite is hot year-round, but fall is prime time when they school up. Redfish are excellent table fare too. Pro tip: when sight fishing, look for their signature tail waving above the water - it's a dead giveaway.

Redfish

Sea Trout

Sea trout, or spotted seatrout, are a staple of our inshore fishing. These silvery predators usually run 14-24 inches, though gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. Look for them over grass flats and along channel edges, especially early morning or evening. They're suckers for a well-presented artificial lure, making them fun for anglers of all skill levels. Sea trout school up, so where you catch one, there's likely more. They're known for their soft, white flesh - perfect for a fresh fish dinner. The bite really picks up in fall and winter when they congregate in deeper holes. Here's a local secret: on calm days, listen for their distinctive "drumming" sound to locate feeding fish.

Sea Trout

Snook

Snook are the rockstars of our local waters. These sleek, powerful fish typically range from 20-40 inches, with some monsters pushing 50 pounds. You'll find them lurking around mangroves, docks, and bridges, especially during summer spawning season. Snook love structure and ambush their prey, so casting close to cover is key. They put up an incredible fight, often making runs for the nearest snag. The bite is best on moving tides, particularly at night or dawn. While they're catch-and-release most of the year, snook are prized for both sport and table fare when in season. Pro tip: use a circle hook with live bait to increase your hookup ratio and reduce gut-hooking these valuable gamefish.

Snook

About the Aquasport (Bay boat)

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Honda

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Captain John's 8-hour inshore fishing charter in Boca Grande, FL is perfect for anglers looking to spend a full day on the water. You'll have the chance to target a variety of local species including snook, redfish, spotted seatrout, jack crevalle, and snapper. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to fishing, this trip caters to all skill levels. The flexible start time lets you choose when to begin your adventure. All necessary fishing licenses, tackle, and gear are provided, so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. With room for up to 4 guests, it's a great option for small groups or families. Captain John's local knowledge and expertise will guide you to the most productive spots, maximizing your chances of a successful catch. Customize your experience based on your fishing preferences and goals for a truly personalized day on the water.
Boca Grande Fishing Charters

Follow Us

FacebookInstagram

Navigate

Home

Trips & Rates

Gallery

Reviews

Reports

Target Species

Meet the Captain

Gift Card

FAQ

Contact Us

FEATURED

Things To Do

6 Hour Inshore

Snappy Inshore

Full Day Fun

Quick Inshore

Silver Strike

Boca Grande Fishing: Reel Adventure

Welcome to Boca Grande Fishing Charters, your gateway to unforgettable angling experiences in the pristine waters of Boca Grande, FL. Led by the seasoned expertise of Captain John Kelso, we invite you to embark on thrilling fishing adventures, where every cast promises excitement and memories that will last a lifetime. Join us and explore the bountiful marine treasures that await you in this picturesque Florida paradise.

More about Boca Grande Fishing Charters

© Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.

Powered by Guidesly

Privacy Policy

Sitemap