Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing at Port Canaveral

Published Date: July 16, 2025
Fishing

Port Canaveral
$350 - $950 price range

Summary

Get ready for a satisfying day of fishing in the productive nearshore waters of Cape Canaveral. This 4-6 hour charter is perfect for anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. We'll hit up the jettys, beaches, and waters up to 5 miles out, targeting a variety of species like Snook, Sheepshead, Redfish, Black Drum, Tarpon, and Jack Crevalle. Our experienced guides know these waters inside and out, and they'll work hard to put you on the fish. No need to worry about gear or licenses - we've got you covered with all the tackle you'll need, plus fishing licenses and bottled water. It's a laid-back trip that lets you focus on enjoying the Florida coast and reeling in some great catches. Whether you're after a trophy fish or just want to wet a line, this charter offers a fun, rewarding experience for everyone on board.

Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing at Port Canaveral

Reels and Rods

Sheepshead fish caught while fishing in FL

Striped sheepshead, proud moment.

Two people enjoying a fishing trip in Orlando

Golden hour, focused fishing moment.

Mutton Snapper fish caught while fishing in Orlando

Sunny smile, plump mangrove snapper.

Unique catch, fierce hammerhead shark.

Port Canaveral's Hidden Gems: Nearshore & Jetty Fishing

Ready to experience some of the best fishing Cape Canaveral has to offer? Our private nearshore and jetty charters are perfect for anglers of all skill levels looking to reel in some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, we've got you covered with everything you need for a fantastic day on the water.

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You're cruising out of Port Canaveral, the anticipation building as we head towards the productive waters just off the coast. Our 4-6 hour trips give you plenty of time to hit the sweet spots – from the fish-rich jetties to the nearshore reefs up to 5 miles out. We're talking about the kind of fishing where you can see the shoreline but still have a shot at some serious action. Snook hiding in the shadows of the rocks, redfish prowling the shallows, and maybe even a tarpon rolling on the surface – it's all on the menu here.

How We Roll

On these trips, we're all about versatility. One minute you might be sight-casting to a school of jacks busting bait near the beach, the next we could be dropping live shrimp around the jetty rocks for sheepshead. We provide all the tackle, so you don't have to worry about a thing. Our rigs are set up for everything from light spinning gear for those sneaky snook to heavier setups if we run into some bruiser black drum. And hey, if you're new to this, don't sweat it – we'll show you the ropes, from how to work a lure to the best way to fight a fish. It's hands-on learning with instant rewards.

Reel Talk from Happy Anglers

"Awesome trip! Super friendly and knowledgeable, we can't wait to come back for an offshore trip!" - Michael

"Jason and his father "the first mate" were awesome! My five year old and myself booked a fun inshore trip. We caught fish all day, had one keeper to take home for dinner! They were hooking fish and helping my 5 year old reel them in so he didn't miss out on any of the action! I will definitely give them a call when I come back into town!!" - Austin

Fish on the Radar

Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast on light tackle. They love to chase flashy lures and can put on quite the acrobatic show when hooked. Spring and fall are prime times to target these toothy critters, and they make for some tasty fish tacos.

Southern Flounder: Masters of camouflage, these flatfish are a favorite for both their challenge and their flavor. We often find them lurking near structure or along sandy dropoffs. Slow-dragging a soft plastic or live bait along the bottom is the ticket to enticing a bite from these ambush predators.

Snook: The rockstar of inshore fishing, snook are prized for their hard-fighting nature and wary behavior. They love to hang around structure, especially the jetties, where they ambush baitfish. Early morning or evening trips can be magic for targeting these line-sided gamefish, particularly during their spring and fall runs.

Grey Snapper: Don't let their size fool you – these crafty fish, also known as mangrove snapper, can be tough to fool. They hang around rocky areas and reefs, and have a knack for short-striking baits. When you do hook up, though, they put up a scrappy fight that's tons of fun on light tackle.

Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes, sheepshead are not only cool-looking but also great eating. They're notorious bait-stealers, often nibbling crabs and shrimp off hooks with their human-like teeth. Fishing for these around the jetties requires finesse and patience, but landing a big one is seriously satisfying.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

Look, there's a reason our trips are a hit with locals and visitors alike. It's not just about catching fish (though we do plenty of that). It's about that perfect mix of relaxation and excitement you can only get on the water. One minute you're kicking back, enjoying the Florida sunshine, the next your rod's bent double with a mystery fish on the other end. Plus, with our local know-how, you're not just fishing – you're getting the inside scoop on the area's marine life, tides, and eco-system. It's like a nature tour and fishing trip rolled into one.

Time to Wet a Line

So, what do you say? Ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Cape Canaveral has to offer? Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, want to improve your own skills, or just fancy a laid-back day reeling in some dinner, we've got you covered. Remember, we provide everything you need – rods, reels, bait, licenses, even cold water to keep you hydrated. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe some sunscreen). Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book your trip. Get in touch with us at ShayJay Fishing Charters, and let's start planning your perfect day on the water. Trust me, once you've fished these waters, you'll be hooked for life!

Customer Reviews

Offshore Dreams Await

Awesome trip! Super friendly and knowledgeable, we can’t wait to come back for an offshore trip!

Michael Jones

June 24, 2025

Jason and his father “the first mate” were awesome! My five year old and myself booked a fun inshore trip. We caught fish all day, had one keeper to take home for dinner! They were hooking fish and helping my 5 year old reel them in so he didn’t miss out on any of the action! I will definitely give them a call when I come back into town!!

Austin Miller

September 15, 2024

Learn more about the species

Grey Snapper

Grey Snapper, also called mangrove snapper, are opportunistic feeders that hang around structure. Most inshore fish run 10-14 inches, but offshore they can hit 20 pounds. You'll find them near reefs, wrecks, and mangroves in both shallow and deeper waters. They're active year-round but really fire up in summer. Anglers love targeting greys for their tasty white meat and the challenge of outsmarting them. These guys are line-shy, so use light fluorocarbon leader. Live shrimp or small baitfish work great. Here's a tip: chum a bit to get them fired up, then drop your bait right into the frenzy. Night fishing can be especially productive since they feed more actively then. Just be ready for a quick, sharp bite - these snappers don't mess around.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are structure-loving fish with human-like teeth, perfect for crushing barnacles and crabs. Most run 1-8 pounds, but they can reach 20. Look for them around pilings, jetties, and reefs - anywhere with barnacle growth. Winter and early spring are prime as they gather to spawn. Anglers enjoy the challenge of catching these bait stealers and their excellent table quality. To land one, use small hooks baited with fiddler crabs, oysters, or shrimp. Fish as close to the structure as you can without snagging. Here's a local trick: scrape some barnacles off a piling to create a chum slick. This often draws in nearby sheepshead. Just be ready to set the hook fast - they're notorious for nibbling bait off hooks.

Snook

Snook are one of Florida's most sought-after gamefish. They typically run 24-28 inches but can reach over 4 feet. You'll find them around mangroves, docks, and inlets - anywhere with structure and moving water. Spring and summer are prime, especially around the full and new moons when they spawn. Anglers love snook for their hard fights, wary nature, and excellent eating quality. To hook one, try live bait like pilchards or pinfish around structure. Artificials like swimbaits and topwaters work well too. Here's a local tip: on incoming tides, focus on points where water is funneling into backwaters. Snook often stage there to ambush bait. Just remember, they've got rough mouths, so check your leader often for frays.

Southern Flounder

Southern Flounder are ambush predators that lie flat on the bottom, waiting to pounce. Most are 15-18 inches, but they can grow up to 33 inches. Look for them in sandy or muddy areas near jetties, inlets, and estuaries. Fall is the best time as they move offshore to spawn. Anglers prize flounder for their mild, delicate flavor and the challenge of hooking them. They have a subtle bite, so stay alert. Use live bait like mud minnows or finger mullet on a Carolina rig. Drag it slowly along the bottom, feeling for that telltale thump. When you feel weight, give it a second before setting the hook - flounder often grab the tail first. Patience is key with these flatfish, but the reward is worth it.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are speedy swimmers that'll give you a run for your money. Usually 1-2 feet long and 8-11 pounds, these guys love to school up near the surface. You'll find them cruising our nearshore waters, especially around structures and bait schools. Spring and fall are prime times, as they migrate through. Anglers love 'em for their fast, acrobatic fights and tasty meat. To land one, try trolling with small, flashy spoons or cast jigs into feeding frenzies. Live bait like pilchards works great too. Just remember, they've got sharp teeth, so use a wire leader. When you see birds diving, that's often a good sign mackerel are feeding below. These fish make excellent table fare - grilled or smoked, they're hard to beat.

About the ShayJay Fishing Charters

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: SUZUKI

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Looking for a chill day of fishing near Cape Canaveral? Hop aboard our comfortable charter boat for a 4-6 hour trip that's perfect for anglers of all levels. We'll cruise the local waters, hitting up productive spots like jetties, beaches, and nearshore areas within 5 miles of the coast. You'll have a shot at landing some classic Florida catches - Snook, Sheepshead, Redfish, Black Drum, Tarpon, and Jack Crevalle are all on the menu. Our experienced guides know these waters like the back of their hand and will help you make the most of your time, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro. We've got you covered with all the gear, licenses, and cold water you'll need. It's a low-key, fun way to experience some of the best fishing the Space Coast has to offer. Grab a friend and come see what's biting!

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