Ready to tangle with some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species? Captain Cody's 6-hour Punta Gorda charter is your ticket to non-stop action in the fish-rich waters of Charlotte Harbor. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip offers the perfect blend of excitement and instruction. We'll be chasing the inshore slam - snook, redfish, and speckled trout - with the chance to hook into a silver king tarpon if conditions are right. Grab your hat and sunscreen, because we're about to dive into a day of rod-bending, drag-screaming fun!
From the moment we push off from the dock, you'll be in for a treat. Captain Cody knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll have us on the fish in no time. We'll start by hitting some prime spots around mangrove shorelines and oyster bars, perfect hideouts for hungry snook and reds. As the day progresses, we might drift across grass flats for speckled trout or scout deeper channels for rolling tarpon. The beauty of inshore fishing is its versatility - we can easily switch tactics to match what's biting. And don't worry if you're new to this; Captain Cody's got all the gear and know-how to get you hooked up, whether you're tossing live bait or trying your hand at artificial lures.
On this trip, we'll be using a mix of light tackle techniques that are both effective and fun. Expect to do some sight-casting along the mangroves for tailing redfish, or free-lining live bait for snook lurking in the shadows. For trout, we might use popping corks over grass flats or jig soft plastics. If tarpon are around, get ready for some heart-pounding topwater action or slow-trolling with live bait. Captain Cody provides all the rods, reels, and terminal tackle, rigged and ready to go. He'll show you the ropes on everything from proper casting techniques to reading the water. By the end of the day, you'll be working those lures like a pro!
Snook: These hard-fighting linesiders are the crown jewels of inshore fishing. Known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps, snook will test your skills and your drag. They love to hang around structure, so we'll be targeting mangrove edges, dock pilings, and current rips. The "snook season" in this area typically peaks in spring and fall, but they can be caught year-round. Landing a big snook is a true Florida fishing accomplishment!
Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored bruisers are a blast to catch. They're famous for their powerful runs and their ability to strip line from your reel. We'll look for them tailing in shallow water or cruising along oyster bars. Redfish are particularly active in the fall months, but we catch them all year in Charlotte Harbor. There's nothing quite like the thump of a redfish taking your bait!
Speckled Trout: Don't let their name fool you - these speckled beauties are ferocious predators. They're known for their willingness to hit artificial lures, making them a favorite for light tackle enthusiasts. We'll target them over grass flats and around potholes. While they can be caught year-round, the cooler months often see larger "gator" trout move into the shallows. Their soft mouths require finesse, adding an extra challenge to the fight.
Tarpon: The silver king is the ultimate prize in these waters. These prehistoric giants can grow well over 100 pounds and are famous for their gill-rattling jumps and long, powerful runs. While not an everyday catch, if conditions are right and tarpon are in the area, Captain Cody might give us a shot at hooking one. Peak tarpon season is typically late spring through summer, but resident fish can be found year-round. Landing a tarpon is a bucket-list experience for any angler!
It's not just about the fish - though they're a big part of it! Charlotte Harbor offers some of the most scenic and productive inshore waters in Florida. As we cruise around, you'll soak in views of pristine mangrove islands, spot dolphins playing in the wake, and maybe even catch a glimpse of manatees or sea turtles. Captain Cody's local knowledge means you're not just getting a fishing trip, but an insider's tour of this amazing ecosystem. Plus, with all gear provided and fish cleaned at the end of the day, it's a hassle-free way to experience world-class inshore fishing. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn new techniques, or just enjoy a day on the water, this charter delivers.
Ready to get in on the action? Captain Cody's 6-hour Punta Gorda inshore charter is your ticket to an unforgettable day of fishing. With top-notch gear, expert guidance, and some of the best inshore fishing grounds in Florida at your fingertips, you're in for a treat. Whether you're dreaming of that bull redfish, your first snook, or just want to fill the cooler with tasty trout, this trip has got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Grab your fishing buddies, pack some snacks and drinks, and get ready for a day of rod-bending action in beautiful Charlotte Harbor. Book now and get ready to make some fish stories of your own!
Redfish are one of our most popular inshore targets, typically ranging from 18-27 inches in the shallows. These bronze beauties love cruising the flats and mangrove shorelines in 1-3 feet of water. Fall is prime time when big schools push into the bays. Redfish are known for their strong, steady pulls and occasional topwater blow-ups. They're also excellent eating fish. Look for them tailing in shallow water or hanging around oyster bars. Live bait like pinfish or cut mullet works great, but artificial lures can be just as effective. My favorite local trick is to use a gold spoon in muddy water - the flash really gets their attention. When sight-fishing, a stealthy approach is key. Redfish will test your patience, but landing a big one is always rewarding.
Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a staple of our inshore waters. Most run 15-20 inches, but gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. You'll find them over grass flats and around oyster bars in 2-6 feet of water. Spring and fall are peak seasons when water temps are mild. Trout are known for their soft mouths, so a light touch is crucial. They put up a decent fight and taste great on the table. Locals love targeting them with live shrimp under a popping cork or with soft plastic jigs. For best results, fish the early morning or evening low light periods. My go-to trick is to work a topwater plug slowly across the flats at first light - the surface strikes are a blast. Sea trout are a great species for anglers of all skill levels.
Snook are a prized catch in our local waters, typically ranging from 20 to 40 inches. These silver-sided ambush predators love to hang around mangroves, docks, and other structure. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are just right. Snook put up an amazing fight - their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps make them a blast to catch. They're also great eating fish, with firm white meat. Look for them in 3-6 feet of water around points and drop-offs. Live bait like pilchards or pinfish work well, but artificial lures can be effective too. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep your rod tip up and be ready for those sudden direction changes. Snook fishing is all about finesse and patience.
Tarpon are the kings of inshore fishing around here. These prehistoric-looking monsters can reach over 6 feet and 150 pounds. You'll find them rolling and gulping air in deeper channels and along beaches, especially in late spring and summer. Tarpon are famous for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked - expect multiple jaw-dropping jumps. While not good to eat, the sheer power and acrobatics make them a bucket-list fish for many anglers. Look for them in 10-30 feet of water near passes and along the coast. Live bait like crabs or threadfin herring work well. When you hook up, bow to the king - lower your rod tip when they jump to prevent breaking off. Patience and stamina are key with these giants. Even seasoned anglers get humbled by tarpon regularly.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150