St Augustine Inshore Fishing Charters: Backwater Fishing in America's Oldest City
Cruise the Intracoastal from Vilano Causeway with a local captain to fish for seatrout, redfish, snook and tarpon. This private, guided inshore charter blends easy boating with hands-on angling in St. Augustine's historic backwaters.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to check in
Plan to be at 101 Vilano Causeway at least 15 minutes before departure to handle paperwork and safety briefings.
Sun protection is essential
Bring broad-spectrum sunscreen, a brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses—reflections off the water intensify sun exposure.
Hydration and snacks
Boats supply bottled water but bring electrolyte drinks and light snacks for multi-hour trips, especially summer afternoons.
Stow motion-sickness remedies
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative medication or use acupressure bands—backwater chop and tide-driven currents can still unsettle riders.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet Matanzas River marsh cuts for birding and calm shallow-water fishing
- •Fort Matanzas National Monument shoreline and nearby oyster bars often overlooked by day-trippers
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphin
- •Great blue heron
Conservation Note
Operators follow Florida regulations and encourage catch-and-release for vulnerable and undersized fish; protecting marsh habitat and avoiding prop scars maintains nursery areas for juvenile species.
St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental United States; its maritime routes shaped local fishing traditions.
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Improves visibility into water for locating structure and fish.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects against prolonged sun exposure on reflective water surfaces.
Brimmed hat or buffEssential
Shades face and neck during long hours on deck and reduces glare.
Light windproof jacket
Keeps you comfortable during cooler mornings or breezy afternoons.
Common Questions
Do I need a Florida fishing license?
No—this operator supplies fishing licenses as part of the charter inclusions, but anglers should verify species-specific limits and seasons with the captain.
Where do trips meet and return?
Most trips meet at 101 Vilano Causeway, St. Augustine, FL; you return to the same marina at the end of your charter.
What species can I expect to catch?
Common inshore targets include seatrout, redfish, black drum, snook, sheepshead and seasonal tarpon; availability depends on tide, season and conditions.
What is the cancellation policy for weather?
The trip offers full refund if cancelled by the operator for bad weather; guests can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund according to booking terms.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–8 hours
Location
St Augustine, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to board a small boat and stand or sit for extended periods.
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