Fall is one of the best times of year to fish around Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach. The summer crowds are gone, the air is cooler and the water is full of fish feeding up as temperatures drop. Here is our November outlook for inshore, jetty and offshore fishing, from the crew at Big Fin Charters.
Fishing changes week to week with the weather, tides and water temperature. For the latest on what is biting, call Captain Michael at (904) 753-3848.
Inshore and jetty fishing in November
November is a great month for anglers who want steady action close to home. On our inshore and jetty trips this time of year, our captains target:
- Redfish. Fall is prime time for redfish around Amelia Island, from slot sized fish in the creeks to big bull reds around the St. Marys inlet jetties.
- Black drum. Black drum feed around the rocks and docks as the water cools and are a great fight on light tackle.
- Flounder. Flounder hold along the jetties and river edges in the fall and make some of the best eating fish of the year.
- Speckled trout and southern kingfish (whiting). Both are fun, steady action for kids and first timers.
- Sheepshead. As the water gets colder, sheepshead start showing up around the jetty rocks and pilings.
- Blacktip sharks can still be around early in the month for anglers looking for a bigger pull.
Our half day jetty fishing trip is a great way to fish the inlet this month, and our short inshore trips are perfect for families on fall break.
Nearshore and offshore fishing in November
When the weather allows, fall can be a strong time to run offshore. On our offshore trips, the main targets this time of year include:
- King mackerel along the nearshore reefs and live bottom
- Black sea bass and other bottom fish on the reefs
- Cobia around structure when conditions line up
Some offshore species, including red snapper and gag grouper, can only be kept during short open seasons set by state and federal managers. Your captain keeps up with the current rules and will tell you what can be kept on your trip.
Tips for fishing Amelia Island in November
- Dress in layers. Mornings on the water can be chilly in late fall, even when afternoons are warm.
- Watch the wind. Fall cold fronts bring windy days. Inshore and jetty trips are often still on when offshore trips are not.
- Book holiday dates early. Thanksgiving week is a popular time for family fishing trips.
- Plan for dinner. We clean and fillet your catch at the dock, so bring a cooler with ice in your car.
Book a fall fishing trip
All of our trips leave from downtown Fernandina Beach and include licenses, bait, tackle and fish cleaning. Compare our two boats and current rates on our boats and captains page, check open dates online, or call (904) 753-3848.