Riptide's 8-Hour Inshore Fishing Adventure

Full-Day Offshore Bonanza: Drum, Bass, and More

Get ready for an epic day on the water with Riptide Charters' full-day offshore adventure. This 8-hour trip takes you beyond the breakers to where the big ones lurk. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, our experienced crew will put you on the fish and show you the ropes. From the hard-fighting black drum to the tasty black sea bass, this trip's got it all. So grab your hat and let's hit the high seas!

What to Expect on the Water

Rise and shine, folks! We'll meet at the dock bright and early, load up the boat, and head out as the sun peeks over the horizon. The beauty of a full day is we've got time to really explore. We'll hit several offshore honey holes, switching up tactics as we go. Expect to troll for Spanish mackerel, sight cast for cobia, and drop lines for bottom-dwellers like black sea bass. The crew's always scanning for bird activity or surface action that might lead us to a hot bite. Don't worry if you're new to this - our guides are patient teachers and will have you jigging like a pro in no time.

Techniques That Land the Big Ones

On this trip, we break out all the tools in the tackle box. We'll start by trolling with planers and spoons - a killer method for Spanish mackerel and bluefish. When we spot cobia or amberjack, it's time for some heart-pumping sight casting. Nothing beats watching a big fish crush your bait on the surface! As we move to deeper waters, we'll switch to bottom fishing. We'll use live bait and jigs to tempt black sea bass, black drum, and maybe even a surprise grouper. The key is staying flexible and reading the water. Our crew's always got an eye on the sonar, looking for structure and bait schools that hold the big boys.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Black Drum: These bruisers are the heavyweight champs of the inshore world. They can grow over 100 pounds, though we usually target the "puppy drum" in the 5-30 pound range. Black drum love crustaceans, so we'll use crab or shrimp to entice them. They put up a great fight, especially around structure. Spring and fall are prime time for these bulldogs of the sea.

Black Sea Bass: Don't let their size fool you - these feisty little guys punch above their weight class. They hang around reefs and wrecks, snatching up any bait that comes their way. We catch them year-round, but they move offshore in the winter. Dropping a squid or cut bait to the bottom is like ringing the dinner bell for these tasty critters. They're a favorite for fish tacos!

Greater Amberjack: Hold on to your hats when an AJ hits! These powerhouses will test your arms and your drag. We find them around deep wrecks and reefs, usually in the warmer months. Live bait or big jigs are the ticket here. When you hook up, it's like trying to stop a freight train - pure adrenaline!

Cobia: These curious fish are a sight-fisher's dream. We often spot them cruising near the surface or hanging around buoys and channel markers. They're here in the warmer months, usually May through September. Tossing a live eel or a big bucktail jig in front of a cobia is a sure-fire way to get your heart racing. They grow big, fight hard, and taste amazing on the grill.

Bluefish: These toothy critters are the perfect fish for anglers who love non-stop action. They travel in schools, slashing through bait with reckless abandon. We catch them trolling or casting lures near the surface. Blues are around most of the year but really fire up in the spring and fall. They're not the best eating, but man, are they fun to catch!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Our full-day trip isn't just about filling the cooler (though we usually do that too). It's about the whole experience. You'll feel the salt spray on your face as we cruise to our first spot. You'll learn new techniques from our seasoned crew. Maybe you'll see dolphins playing in our wake or spot a sea turtle coming up for air. And there's nothing like the camaraderie that develops over a day on the water, swapping stories and cheering each other on. By the time we head back to the dock, you'll have a new fish tale (or five) to tell, some tasty fillets for dinner, and memories that'll last a lifetime.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, let's get you out on the water! This full-day trip is perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo anglers looking to join in on the fun. Remember, we provide all the gear, so you just need to bring your sense of adventure (and maybe some snacks). Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to lock in your date. Whether you're after your personal best black drum or just want to feel the tug of a frisky sea bass, we've got you covered. Give us a call or book online today, and let's make some waves!