Elite Steinhatchee Inshore Fishing | Southern Fried

Extended Fishing Trip in Steinhatchee's Inshore Waters

Get ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action in the rich coastal waters of Steinhatchee, Florida. Captain Chris Davy knows these waters like the back of his hand and is itching to put you on some of the best inshore fishing spots around. Whether you're after hard-fighting redfish, sneaky sea trout, or tasty flounder, this extended trip gives you plenty of time to track down the fish and fill the cooler. With all the gear provided and Chris's local know-how, you're in for a day of reeling in memories (and dinner) that'll have you grinning from ear to ear.

What to Expect on the Water

Your day starts bright and early at the Marina at Deadman's Bay, where you'll hop aboard Captain Chris's 20-foot Sundance Skiff. This boat's perfect for navigating Steinhatchee's shallow waters and getting into those fishy spots the big boats can't reach. As you cruise out, Chris will fill you in on the day's game plan, showing you how to use the gear and sharing some local fishing wisdom. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, Chris has got you covered. He'll have you casting like a pro in no time, targeting everything from redfish in the grass flats to flounder lurking around oyster bars. With room for up to three guests, it's an ideal trip for a small group of friends or family looking to bond over bent rods and fish stories.

Fishing Techniques & Hotspots

On this extended trip, you'll get to try out a variety of fishing techniques to match whatever the fish are biting on. Chris might have you tossing soft plastics for trout one minute, then switching to live bait for redfish the next. You could be sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water or working deeper channels for bigger fish. The beauty of Steinhatchee is its diverse habitats - from grassy flats and oyster bars to deeper holes and channels. Each spot calls for a different approach, and Chris will show you the ropes every step of the way. As the tide changes throughout the day, you'll move from spot to spot, always staying on the fish. And if the inshore bite slows down, there's always the option to run out a bit further for some nearshore action, where you might tangle with some hard-pulling sheepshead or even a tarpon if you're lucky.

Top Catches This Season

Steinhatchee's waters are teeming with gamefish year-round, but each season brings its own highlights. In spring and fall, the redfish action heats up as they school up and cruise the flats. Summer brings the opportunity for some world-class fluke (summer flounder) fishing, with these tasty flatfish often reaching doormat size. Sea trout are reliable targets throughout the warmer months, providing fast action and great eating. As the water cools in late fall and winter, sheepshead move in around the rocky areas and structures, offering a fun challenge with their nibble-and-run bite. And for those looking for a real trophy, tarpon make their way through in the late spring and summer, providing heart-pounding action on light tackle. No matter when you visit, Captain Chris knows where to find the fish that are biting.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are a favorite among Steinhatchee anglers. Known for their powerful runs and distinctive spot near the tail, redfish can be found year-round but really shine in the fall. They love to cruise the shallow flats, often revealing their presence with their tails sticking out of the water as they root for crabs and shrimp. Fighting a big red in skinny water is an experience you won't soon forget.

Sea Trout: Also called spotted seatrout, these wily predators are a staple of inshore fishing in Steinhatchee. They're known for their speckled patterns and delicate mouths, which make for an exciting and challenging catch. Sea trout often hang around grass flats and deeper holes, striking at baitfish and shrimp. Their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps make them a blast to catch on light tackle.

Summer Flounder: Don't let their flat appearance fool you - these ambush predators are skilled hunters and put up a great fight. Also known as fluke, they're masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with the sandy or muddy bottom. Flounder fishing requires finesse and patience, but the reward is some of the tastiest fillets you'll ever eat. Captain Chris knows all the tricks to entice these flatfish to bite.

Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes and human-like teeth, sheepshead are one of the more unusual-looking fish you'll encounter. They're notorious bait stealers, making them a fun challenge for anglers of all skill levels. Found around structures like pilings, rocks, and oyster bars, sheepshead offer a great target when other species are less active. Their firm, white meat is excellent on the grill.

Tarpon: Known as the "silver king," hooking into a tarpon is the dream of many inshore anglers. These prehistoric-looking fish can grow over 100 pounds and are famous for their spectacular leaps and long, determined runs. While they're not an everyday catch in Steinhatchee, the chance at landing one of these giants makes every cast exciting. Tarpon are typically catch-and-release, providing an unforgettable battle without harming the fish.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks who fish with Captain Chris tend to become repeat customers, and it's easy to see why. His laid-back attitude combined with his serious fishing skills make for a day that's as fun as it is productive. Chris has a knack for reading the water and finding the fish, even when they're playing hard to get. He's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, whether it's a secret spot he's been saving or a special lure that the fish can't resist. But what really sets Chris apart is his patience and willingness to teach. Whether you're struggling with your cast or just want to learn more about the local ecosystem, he's always happy to share his knowledge. By the end of the day, you'll have not just a cooler full of fish, but also a head full of new skills and insights about Steinhatchee's unique fishery.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best inshore fishing Florida has to offer, now's the time to lock in your date with Southern Fried Charters. Captain Chris's extended trips fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're planning a fishing getaway with your buddies or looking to introduce the kids to the joys of angling, this trip offers something for everyone. Remember, all the gear is provided, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a cooler for your catch). Don't let another fishing season slip by - book your extended inshore trip with Captain Chris today and get ready to make some waves (and memories) in beautiful Steinhatchee!