Amelia Island Fishing Trips
Inshore fishing trips from downtown Fernandina Beach
Not every great day of fishing needs a long run offshore. Our inshore trips stay in the protected water around Amelia Island: the Amelia River, the Intracoastal Waterway, the tidal creeks behind the island and the rock jetties at the St. Marys inlet. The ride is short, the water is calmer and the action can be steady, which makes these trips a favorite with families, kids and first time anglers.
Every trip leaves from the downtown Fernandina Beach waterfront on South Front Street. With trips as short as 2 hours and morning, midday or afternoon start times, an inshore trip is easy to fit around a beach day or dinner on Centre Street.
Choose your trip
We run inshore trips on both of our boats. Here are the options and current rates:
| Trip | Boat and group size | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2 hour inshore trip | Big Fin Charters II, up to 4 | $375 |
| 3 hour nearshore trip | Big Fin Charters II, up to 4 | $500 |
| 3 hour inshore charter | Big Fin Charters, up to 6 | $550 |
| 4 hour jetty trip | Big Fin Charters II, up to 4 | $600 |
| 4 hour half day jetty trip | Big Fin Charters, up to 6 | $650 |
Rates are the current FishingBooker rates as of November 2026 and can change. Your booking confirmation shows the final price. Check open dates and book online.
Want more time on the water? See our 3/4 day jetty trips or head out on an offshore trip. You can also compare both boats on our boats and captains page.
What you can catch inshore
The inshore waters around Amelia Island hold a wide mix of fish, and what bites changes with the season and the water temperature. Species our captains target on inshore and jetty trips include:
- Redfish, including big bull reds around the jetties in the fall
- Black drum and sheepshead around rocks, docks and structure
- Flounder and speckled trout along the river and creek edges
- Southern kingfish (whiting), a great eating fish that kids love to catch
- Blacktip sharks and Spanish mackerel when they are around
- Tarpon in the warmer months
Size limits, bag limits and closed seasons apply to some species. Your captain will tell you what can be kept on your trip.
Great for families and kids
Inshore trips are the easiest way to introduce kids to saltwater fishing. The boat stays close to land, the runs are short, and there is usually something pulling on the line. Children are welcome on both boats and must wear a life jacket, so let us know their ages and sizes when you book.
Your captain handles the bait, rigging and knots, so parents can focus on helping kids reel and taking pictures. At the end of the trip we clean and fillet your catch, so you can take it straight back to your rental for dinner.
Everything is included
- Fishing licenses for everyone on board
- Rods, reels, tackle, live bait and lures
- Cleaning and filleting your catch
Bring snacks, drinks, sunscreen and sunglasses. Our guide to your first fishing charter covers the rest. Coming from off the island? We also welcome guests from Jacksonville and St. Marys, GA.
Frequently asked questions
What is the shortest fishing trip you offer?
Our shortest trip is a 2 hour inshore trip on Big Fin Charters II for up to 4 guests. It is a great choice for young kids or anyone who wants a quick taste of saltwater fishing.
Are inshore trips good for kids?
Yes. Inshore trips stay in calmer, protected water with short runs between spots. Children are welcome and must wear a life jacket.
Do inshore trips go out into the ocean?
Inshore trips fish the Amelia River, the Intracoastal Waterway, tidal creeks and the St. Marys inlet jetties. Offshore trips are the ones that run out into the open ocean.
Can we keep the fish we catch?
Yes, you can keep legal fish that are in season and within size and bag limits. We clean and fillet your catch at the end of the trip.
Do we need fishing licenses?
No. Fishing licenses for everyone on board are included with every trip.
Book a short inshore trip online, or call (904) 753-3848 and we will help you pick the right boat and start time for your group.