A city that has more than 1,110 miles of interior shoreline is a prime location for fishing. In Jacksonville, anglers of all ages and experience levels connect with family and friends while they learn to fish or pick up new tricks. They also get to witness a variety of species like largemouth bass year-round. Let's explore three different types of fishing trips you can take while in Jacksonville.
The best way for new anglers to learn the Jacksonville waters is to get with a fishing expert. A guide navigates the waters and shows you the best fishing spots. They may even give you some tricks learned by past anglers. For some deep sea fishing fun, take a journey out to the Atlantic Ocean. These waters are home to bona fide monsters like huge redfish and cobia. We can't forget about impressive sizes of largemouth bass.
Deep sea fishing charters are available all year around.
Angle Along the Pier at the St. Johns River
Considered the nucleus of area angling, St. Johns River is a spot you don't want to miss. It is one of the few northward-flowing rivers in the world and has been called one of the most productive sportfishing areas in the state for decades. There are piers and docks where you can catch mainly bream. But it's not uncommon to catch speckled perch, largemouth bass, and catfish. In the spring, striped bass and hybrid stripers are available. The Shands Bridge, where anglers can catch mullet, crosses this river.
Fish the Timucan Preserve
Backwater fishing adventures are also available. We can't forget about the backyard salt marshes like the Timucan Preserve. There are approximately 65 square miles of salt marsh containing about 46,000-acres of tidal creeks, mudflats, and spartina grass.
Be aware that fishing is permitted anywhere along the preserve except for designated areas. Talbot Island is one of the hot spots in the preserve. Anglers there have caught a variety of fish like drums, whiting, tarpons, and jacks.
Don't worry about where you'll stay or being too far from the excursions. There are plenty of hotels in Jacksonville. Click here to find a hotel closest to the fishing location you want.
Other areas include the Nassau Sound Fishing Bridge. Angle along a mile-long bridge and watch jacks, drums, tarpons, and more come to you. Surf fish along the Guana River and catch flounder, sea trout, black drum, and more.
Also, every year Jacksonville has two signature fishing contests, the Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament and the Jacksonville Kayak Fishing Classic. Jacksonville has the kiddos covered too. You'll find fishing trips just for the kids if you're looking for a fun family adventure.
In Jacksonville, the fish come to you. Inshore and offshore trips are available with convenient access to both fresh and saltwater fishing. Check it out to experience a fishing trip like no other.
Article written by Leo
(Photo by pamontgo via Flickr)