Top-Rated Inshore Charter in Santa Rosa Beach

Reel in the Action: Santa Rosa Beach Fishing

Ready to wet a line in some of Florida's most productive inshore waters? Grab your crew and join Rising Son Expeditions for a 4-hour afternoon fishing adventure in Santa Rosa Beach. We'll cruise the rich waters of Choctawhatchee Bay, targeting everything from hard-fighting redfish to acrobatic ladyfish. With room for up to 4 anglers (or 6 with a small upcharge), this trip is perfect for families, friends, or even a solo angler looking to learn the local hotspots. The best part? We've got your fishing license covered, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a cold drink or two.

What to Expect on the Water

Once we push off from the dock, you'll be in for a true Panhandle fishing experience. We'll hit some of my favorite spots in Choctawhatchee Bay, where the fish are always biting if you know where to look. Depending on the season and what's running, we might be sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows, working grass flats for speckled trout, or even battling some hard-pulling jack crevalle. The bay's diverse ecosystem means there's always action, whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod. And hey, if you've got kids along, there's nothing like watching their faces light up when they feel that first tug on the line.

Tricks of the Trade

On this trip, we'll be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what's working best that day. I'll show you how to work a popping cork for trout, the right way to present a soft plastic to a wary redfish, and maybe even how to walk the dog with a topwater plug if the conditions are right. We'll be fishing from a comfortable, stable boat that's perfect for inshore waters. It's got plenty of room to move around and cast, plus a shaded area if you need a break from the Florida sun. Don't worry if you're new to this – I'll be right there to help you with everything from baiting hooks to landing your catch.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are a favorite among Panhandle anglers. They love to hang around structure and can put up one heck of a fight. In the shallows, you might even see their tails breaking the surface as they root for crabs – that's when the sight-fishing gets really exciting. Redfish are around all year, but fall is prime time when they school up in big numbers.

Largemouth Bass: Yep, you read that right – we've got largemouth in these salty waters! The brackish areas of Choctawhatchee Bay hold some solid bass, and they're a blast on light tackle. They tend to hang around structure and grass beds, so we'll target them with weedless lures and maybe even some topwater action in the early morning or late afternoon.

Ladyfish: Don't let their size fool you – these "poor man's tarpon" are some of the most fun you can have on light tackle. They're known for their acrobatic jumps and blistering runs. Ladyfish are often found in schools, so when you find one, you've usually found a bunch. They're great for anglers of all skill levels and always bring a smile to kids' faces.

Crevalle Jack: If you're looking for a real test of strength, jacks are your fish. These powerful predators travel in schools and can turn a calm day into chaos in seconds. When a school of jacks blows up on bait, it's a sight you won't forget. They're around most of the year but are especially active in the warmer months.

Black Drum: The often-overlooked cousins of redfish, black drum can grow to massive sizes in these waters. They're bottom feeders with a soft spot for crabs and shrimp. While they might not be the prettiest fish in the bay, they more than make up for it with their stubborn fights and good eating qualities (especially the smaller ones).

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Santa Rosa Beach isn't just another pretty Florida town – it's a legit fishing destination that keeps anglers coming back year after year. The diversity of species in Choctawhatchee Bay means you never know what you might catch next. One minute you're battling a bull red, the next you're finessing a speckled trout. And let's not forget the scenery – with the emerald waters and white sand beaches as your backdrop, even a slow day of fishing beats a good day at the office. Plus, with the laid-back vibe of the area, it's the perfect place to unwind and wet a line without the crowds you might find in other Florida hotspots.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I could go on all day about the fishing here, but the best way to experience it is to get out on the water yourself. This 4-hour trip with Rising Son Expeditions is the perfect way to sample what Santa Rosa Beach has to offer. Whether you're a serious angler looking to add some new species to your list or a family just wanting to have some fun on the water, we've got you covered. Remember, all the gear and licenses are included, so all you need to do is show up ready for a good time. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book your trip. Trust me, once you fish these waters, you'll be planning your next visit before we even hit the dock. So what are you waiting for? Let's get out there and make some memories!