Inshore & Coastal Fishing with Summer School Charters in St. Augustine - Jacksonville, FL

Inshore & Coastal Fishing with Summer School Charters in St. Augustine

Jacksonville, FLmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–7 hours depending on trip type

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic mobility and stamina to stand and move on a boat for several hours.

Overview

Join Summer School Charters in St. Augustine for inshore and coastal fishing trips guided by decades of local expertise. Whether casting for redfish or taking in the Nights of Lights from the water, these charters deliver hands-on adventure with a practical edge.

Details

St. Augustine, Florida, the nation’s oldest city, offers more than just cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture—it provides a dynamic gateway to some of Florida’s richest coastal waters. Summer School Charters LLC stands out here, guiding anglers through inshore and coastal fishing trips that highlight this region’s diverse marine life and stunning coastal environments.

Operating from St. Augustine’s waterfront, Captain Steve brings over 30 years of local fishing expertise to every trip, ensuring both novices and seasoned anglers land fish worth bragging about. The charters offer a flexible range, including half- and three-quarter-day trips focused on inshore flats or the deeper coastal waters. This variety lets guests target species such as red drum, speckled trout, sheepshead, and even bonnethead sharks, all while soaking in views of salt marshes, oyster beds, and the Atlantic’s open horizon.

Beyond fishing, Summer School Charters offers Eco and Nights of Lights tours, showcasing the local ecosystem and holiday traditions from a unique perspective. The eco tours highlight the fragile balance of St. Augustine’s estuaries and coastal habitats, while the Nights of Lights tour reveals the city’s well-known winter illumination from the water.

What sets Summer School Charters apart is Captain Steve’s commitment to teaching and sharing knowledge, paired with a clean, well-equipped boat that caters to comfort and performance. The hands-on guidance and strategic use of tides mean more action on the line and a deeper understanding of this waterway’s rhythms.

For those curious about combining cultural history with outdoor adventure, these trips add a fresh layer to St. Augustine’s appeal, connecting anglers and nature lovers alike to Florida’s coastal heart in an accessible, authentic way.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Peak Season

Reservations fill up quickly during spring and fall peak fishing seasons; plan ahead to secure your preferred dates.

Bring Sunscreen and Hydration

Florida coastal sun can be intense—pack reef-safe sunscreen and plenty of water to stay comfortable on the water.

Wear Non-Slip Footwear

Stable, waterproof shoes improve safety aboard the boat, especially when handling fish or moving around.

Arrive Early to Orientation

Show up on time to get a quick safety brief and rod setup instructions before you cast off.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet oyster beds near Vilano Beach that offer excellent sight fishing
  • Tide pool areas around Anastasia State Park with abundant marine life

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins often surf near the boat in coastal waters
  • Brown pelicans soaring and diving along the shoreline

History

St. Augustine’s fishing heritage spans over 450 years, reflecting its roots as a vital Spanish port and fishing hub on the Atlantic coast.

Conservation

Summer School Charters practices catch-and-release and follows sustainable fishing guidelines to protect the delicate estuarine ecosystems native to Northeast Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning
Twilight during Nights of Lights

Best Viewpoints

  • From bow of the boat with skyline in frame
  • Along salt marsh channels
  • Near historic bridges and docks

What to Photograph

Fishing action
Coastal birdlife
Illuminated Nights of Lights displays

Recommended Gear

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protect skin without harming marine environments during sunny days on the water.

summer specific

Polarized Sunglasses

Essential

Reduce glare from the water’s surface to better spot fish and improve visibility.

Light Waterproof Jacket

Useful for staying dry during sudden showers or windier conditions.

fall specific

Non-Slip Boat Shoes

Essential

Provide stability and comfort on deck while handling fishing gear.

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