Fishing in Fernandina Beach, FL
Fernandina Beach fishing starts right downtown
Fernandina Beach is the only city on Amelia Island, and its historic downtown sits right on the Amelia River. That is where Big Fin Charters is based: our boats leave from the waterfront on South Front Street, a short walk from the shops and restaurants on Centre Street.
From the dock, the jetties at the St. Marys inlet are only a short run away, the river and the Intracoastal Waterway are right in front of you, and the offshore grounds open up once we clear the inlet. That is a lot of fishing variety without a long boat ride.
Shore fishing vs. a Fernandina Beach charter
Visitors often try their luck from the Fort Clinch State Park pier or the surf along Main Beach, and both can be fun. A boat changes the game. Instead of waiting for fish to come to you, a charter takes you to the tips of the jetties, the deeper holes in the river and the reefs offshore, where the bigger fish hold.
On a charter you also skip buying gear, bait and a license. Everything is on board, and Captain Michael and the crew handle the rigging so you can focus on reeling.
Popular Fernandina Beach fishing spots we run to
- The St. Marys inlet jetties: rock structure at the north end of the island that holds redfish, black drum, sheepshead and flounder, with tarpon in the warmer months.
- The Amelia River: calm water right off downtown, good for families and windy days.
- The Intracoastal Waterway: creeks, docks and oyster bars behind the island.
- Nearshore and offshore reefs: bottom fishing for snapper, sea bass and grouper, plus trolling for kingfish, mahi and wahoo in season.
Learn more about our jetty fishing charters and deep sea fishing trips.
Plan your day of fishing in Fernandina Beach
Most of our trips offer a morning or an afternoon departure, so you can fish early and spend the afternoon downtown, or sleep in and head out after lunch. Summer mornings are cooler and calmer, which makes them a good choice for kids.
For a first taste of Fernandina Beach fishing, the four hour half day jetty trip is the easy pick. If you want more time to chase a specific fish, the six hour 3/4 day jetty trip gives you room to move around. Anglers who want snapper, grouper and kingfish should look at our offshore trips, which run from 6 to 12 hours. Check open dates online or call (904) 753-3848.
Great for any occasion
Our Fernandina Beach fishing charters are a great fit when you have family in town and want a local activity everyone will remember, when you want a fun day out with a date or a friend, or when you are celebrating a birthday, a reunion or a group trip. Every charter is private, so the day is built around your group.
You do not need to bring any gear. Licenses, rods, reels, tackle and bait are on the boat. Just pack snacks, drinks, sunscreen and sunglasses, and wear shoes that are fine on a wet deck.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Big Fin Charters dock in Fernandina Beach?
We leave from the downtown Fernandina Beach waterfront on South Front Street, near the foot of Centre Street. Exact meeting details are sent when you book.
Can I keep the fish I catch?
Yes, you can keep legal fish that are in season and within the size and bag limits. Captain Michael will let you know what can be kept on your trip.
Is fishing in Fernandina Beach good all year?
Yes. The mix of jetty, river and offshore fishing means there is something to target in every season. Redfish and black drum are around much of the year, and the offshore bite changes with the water temperature.
What if I get seasick?
Our jetty and river trips stay in more protected water close to the inlet, which is a good choice if you are worried about seasickness. Offshore trips run farther out into open water.
How do I book a fishing charter in Fernandina Beach?
You can book online through our booking page or call (904) 753-3848 to talk with Captain Michael about the best trip for your group.
Find us on the downtown Fernandina Beach waterfront on South Front Street. Book your trip online or call (904) 753-3848 with any questions about tides, timing or what is biting.