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Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in Daytona Beach
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Port Orange
- $300 - $600 price range
- Updated Date: December 11, 2025
Summary
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Inshore Catches & Action
Daytona's Hidden Inshore Hotspots Await
Ready to ditch the beach crowds and hook into some real Florida action? Our 4-hour inshore fishing trip is your ticket to Daytona's best-kept secrets. We'll zip you straight to the honey holes where redfish crush bait and speckled trout ambush from the grass lines. With room for up to 4 anglers, it's the perfect way to introduce the family to fishing or challenge your buddies to a friendly catch competition. Our seasoned local captain knows every nook and cranny of these waters, so get ready for some serious rod-bending action!
What to Expect on the Water
We kick things off bright and early at 7 AM, when the fish are hungry and the water's calm. Our 22' Mako 2210 is a shallow-water specialist, perfect for sneaking up on tailing reds in skinny water or working those productive oyster bars. You'll get hands-on instruction on reading the tides, spotting fish, and presenting your bait just right. Don't worry if you're new to this – we've got top-notch gear and all the patience in the world to get you on fish. And if the bite is hot? No problem. We offer hourly add-ons so you can keep the rods bent when it's really going off.
Techniques That Land Fish
Inshore fishing is all about finesse and knowing the terrain. We'll show you how to work a soft plastic along grass edges, pop a topwater for explosive strikes, or soak cut bait near structure for big drum. Our captain's always got his eye on the water, looking for subtle signs like nervous bait or swirling eddies that signal feeding fish. We might throw nets to catch fresh bait, giving you the best shot at fooling those wary old redfish. And when a shark decides to crash the party? Hold on tight – even the small ones pull like freight trains!
Customer Stories
"I can't say enough good things about our experience with Captain Mark. From the moment we stepped on the boat, he made us feel welcome, safe, and excited for the day ahead. His knowledge of the area, the water conditions, and the best fishing spots was truly impressive. Captain Mark was patient, easygoing, and clearly passionate about what he does. He's the kind of guide who makes it fun and stress-free, and kept the vibe light and positive the whole trip. He even wore a birthday party hat even though he didn't want to just to make me happy. We made some hilarious memories on the water. If you're thinking about booking a charter — stop thinking and do it. Captain Mark is the real deal. I can't wait to book another day with my new bestie, we love you Captain Mark!" - Ashley
"Mark was an awesome captain. Right after booking he called me and was super excited about getting out catching fish. We asked for a shark and we caught one. We caught puffer fish, catch fish, sheep's head, red snappers, stingray. He was very helpful with the kids, and had a lot of knowledge on the water and great spots. If we ever come back mark will be my first call." - Justin
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: The crown jewel of inshore fishing, these copper-colored beauties are known for their powerful runs and distinctive tail spots. In Daytona's waters, you can expect to tangle with reds from "rat reds" in the 18-inch range all the way up to bull reds topping 40 inches. They love to cruise the shallow flats and hang around oyster bars, often revealing their location with subtle "tailing" behavior. Fall is prime time for big schools, but you can catch them year-round.
Speckled Trout: While not on our official target list, these spotted predators are a common and welcome catch on our trips. They're ambush feeders, often hiding in grass beds or around drop-offs. Anglers love their soft mouths and acrobatic fights. Early morning topwater action for specks is some of the most exciting fishing you'll experience.
Southern Flounder: Masters of camouflage, flounder lie in wait on sandy or muddy bottoms. While they might not look like much, they put up a surprisingly good fight and make for excellent table fare. We target them around creek mouths and sandy patches near structure. Late fall sees a run of bigger fish as they move towards offshore spawning grounds.
Black Drum: The bulldogs of the inshore world, black drum can grow to massive sizes. We typically catch them in the 5-30 pound range, but 50+ pounders aren't unheard of. They love crustaceans, so we often use shrimp or crab to entice them. You'll find them around bridges, docks, and deeper holes. Their powerful pulls will test your arms and your gear!
Atlantic Croaker: Don't let their small size fool you – croakers are fun to catch and great for introducing kids to fishing. They make a distinctive croaking sound when caught (hence the name). We often catch them while targeting other species, and they're excellent bait for larger predators.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark: For many anglers, hooking into one of these small sharks is the highlight of the trip. Growing to about 3-4 feet, they're the perfect size for a thrilling fight without being too intimidating. We catch them year-round, but summer tends to be the peak. They're fast, make blistering runs, and often jump – giving you a true "Jaws" moment on a manageable scale.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
It's not just about the fish – though believe me, we catch plenty. What keeps folks rebooking is the whole package. You're out here in the Florida sunshine, away from the tourist hustle, watching ospreys dive and dolphins play. Maybe you'll spot a manatee lazily cruising by. Our trips are laid-back but productive. We'll work hard to put you on fish, but there's always time for a good story or to snap some photos of that sunset. And let's be real – there's nothing like the look on a kid's face when they reel in their first redfish. Those are the moments that stick with you.
Time to Book Your Spot
Listen, the calendar fills up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to dial in your inshore game or a family wanting to make some lasting memories, we've got you covered. Four hours is the sweet spot for most folks – enough time to really get into the action without wearing out the kids (or yourself). But if you're itching for more, we can always extend the trip. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, the boat's gassed up, and we're ready to show you the best inshore fishing Daytona has to offer. Give us a call, lock in your date, and get ready for a day on the water you won't forget. Trust me, once you feel that first redfish on the line, you'll be hooked!
Customer Reviews
Captain Marks Magic
Ashley W
June 18, 2025
Shark Hunter Mark
Mark was an awesome captain. Right after booking he called me and was super excited about getting out catching fish. We asked for a shark and we caught one. We caught puffer fish, catch fish, sheep’s head, red snappers, stingray. He was very helpful with the kids, and had a lot of knowledge on the water and great spots. If we ever come back mark will be my first call.
Justin H
August 5, 2025
Learn more about the species
Atlantic Croaker
Don't let their small size fool you – croakers are a blast to catch and tasty to boot. These bottom-feeders usually run 8-12 inches, but you might hook into a 2-pounder now and then. Look for them in depths of 20-30 feet, especially around channel edges and deep holes. They're most active in spring and fall as they move in and out of the bays. Use light tackle with small hooks baited with shrimp or squid. Kids love catching these fish because they're so eager to bite. Listen for the croaking sound they make when you reel them in – that's how they got their name. For the best action, fish an hour before or after high tide. Fresh croaker makes excellent fish tacos!
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark
These little sharks pack a punch for their size. Usually 2-3 feet long, they're common in our shallow coastal waters. Look for them around sandbars and grass flats, especially in summer. They're quick swimmers and put up a good fight on light tackle. Sharpnoses will hit just about any bait, but fresh cut mullet or squid works great. Watch for their distinctive white spots and black-tipped fins. They're fun to catch and release, but also good eating if you want to keep a smaller one. Just remember to handle them carefully – those teeth are no joke! Pro tip: Use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs when targeting these toothy critters.
Black Drum
These bruisers are the heavyweight champs of our inshore waters. You'll find them hanging around oyster beds, bridge pilings, and deep holes in the back bays. Smaller "puppy drum" up to 5 pounds are great eating, but the big ones over 20 pounds can be tough. They use those powerful jaws to crush shellfish, so crab and shrimp are top baits. Black drum put up a stubborn fight, especially the big ones. They're most active in spring when they school up to spawn. Listen for their distinctive croaking sound – it's how they got the name "drum." For best results, use heavy tackle and fish the bottom with a fish-finder rig. Be patient, these guys are methodical eaters.
Redfish
Redfish are the bread and butter of our inshore fishing. These copper-colored bruisers love shallow water – you'll often see their tails waving above the surface as they root for crabs. Most run 18-27 inches, but trophy "bull reds" over 40 inches aren't uncommon. They're year-round targets, but fall is prime time when they school up. Reds put up a dogged fight, often making several strong runs. They'll hit just about anything, from live bait to artificial lures. For a real thrill, try sight-casting to tailing fish in skinny water. My favorite trick is using scented soft plastics on a light jighead – works like magic when they're being picky. The "spot on the tail" is their trademark – no two are alike.
Southern Flounder
These flat ambush predators are a local favorite. You'll find them lurking on sandy or muddy bottoms in our estuaries and coastal waters. Most run 15-18 inches, but trophy fish over 20 inches aren't uncommon. Fall is prime time as they move to deeper water to spawn. Flounder fishing takes patience, but the reward is some of the best-tasting fillets around. Use a slow retrieve with live bait like finger mullet or mud minnows. My go-to rig is a Carolina setup with a 2/0 circle hook. Keep your line tight – flounder often grab bait and move before committing. When you feel that telltale thump, give them a second before setting the hook.
I can’t say enough good things about our experience with Captain Mark. From the moment we stepped on the boat, he made us feel welcome, safe, and excited for the day ahead. His knowledge of the area, the water conditions, and the best fishing spots was truly impressive. Captain Mark was patient, easygoing, and clearly passionate about what he does. He’s the kind of guide who makes it fun and stress-free, and kept the vibe light and positive the whole trip. He even wore a birthday party hat even though he didn't want to just to make me happy. We made some hilarious memories on the water. If you’re thinking about booking a charter — stop thinking and do it. Captain Mark is the real deal. I can't wait to book another day with my new bestie, we love you Captain Mark!