Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in St. Marks, FL

Published Date: November 19, 2025
Fishing

$300 - $400 price range
Updated Date: November 21, 2025

Summary

Ready for some serious fishing action on Florida's Forgotten Coast? Join Captain Leigh Wills for a 6-hour adventure out of St. Marks. You'll be targeting redfish, sea trout, black drum, cobia, and black sea bass in the rich inshore waters. The trip takes you through scenic grass flats where the fishing is hot and the views are spectacular. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, Captain Leigh provides hands-on guidance to help you land the big one. All the gear is provided, so you just need to bring your fishing license and enthusiasm. With room for up to four people, it's perfect for a day out with family or friends. You'll get a real taste of the Nature Coast, both in terms of the fishing and the stunning surroundings. It's a great way to experience what makes this part of Florida special, both above and below the water.

Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in St. Marks, FL

Rods Bent, Lines Tight

Hooked on St. Marks adventures!

Angler with fishing rod on sunny day in FL

Reel in memories at St. Marks.

Two sheepshead fish caught while fishing in FL

Family fishing fun on Florida waters.

St. Marks: where big fish meet big smiles.

Reel in the Big One: St. Marks Inshore Fishing

Get ready to wet a line in some of Florida's most productive inshore waters. Captain Leigh Wills knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on the fish. For six full hours, you'll be casting, reeling, and hopefully hollering as you battle redfish, trout, and more in the pristine waters of Florida's Forgotten Coast. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your hat and sunscreen – it's time to find out why St. Marks is a top-notch fishing destination.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as you step aboard Cap'n Leigh's boat, you'll feel right at home. He'll get you set up with quality gear and give you the lowdown on the day's game plan. You'll be cruising through scenic grass flats, sight-fishing for tailing reds, or drifting live bait for monster trout. The Nature Coast lives up to its name – keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, and all sorts of shorebirds while you're out there. With room for up to four anglers, it's perfect for a family outing or a day out with your fishing buddies. And don't worry if you're new to this – Cap'n Leigh's got the patience of a saint and will have you casting like a pro in no time.

Fishing Tactics & Hot Spots

On this trip, we'll be using a mix of techniques to target different species. For redfish, we might be sight-casting with artificial lures in skinny water or soaking cut bait near oyster bars. When we're after trout, we'll often drift with live shrimp under a popping cork – there's nothing quite like seeing that cork disappear! For black drum, we'll likely drop some crabs or shrimp near structure. And if the cobia are running, get ready for some fast-paced action with buck-tail jigs or live eels. Cap'n Leigh knows all the honey holes, from grass flats to creek mouths, and he'll put you right where the fish are biting. Just remember, sometimes the fish don't get the memo – but that's why they call it fishing, not catching!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the crown jewels of inshore fishing. They'll test your drag and your patience, often tailing in shallow water or crushing bait near structure. Redfish in St. Marks can range from "rat reds" under 18 inches to bull reds over 30 pounds. They're most active in the fall, but you can catch them year-round. There's nothing like the thump of a redfish hitting your lure – it'll have you grinning from ear to ear.

Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these spotted predators are a blast to catch. They've got paper-thin mouths, so setting the hook just right is key. In St. Marks, you can catch trout from 12 inches up to gator trout over 5 pounds. Spring and fall are prime time for trout, but they bite year-round. They're also mighty tasty if you're looking to bring home dinner.

Black Drum: These cousins of the redfish might not be the prettiest fish in the sea, but they sure can pull. You'll find them hanging around structure, often in deeper holes. St. Marks black drum can range from a couple of pounds to over 50! They're most active in the cooler months. When you hook into a big one, hold on tight – they'll give you a workout!

Cobia: These curious fish are sometimes called "crab eaters" or "ling." They show up in St. Marks waters in the spring, following rays and turtles. Cobia can grow over 100 pounds, though most you'll catch will be in the 20-40 pound range. They're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. Landing a cobia is always a highlight of any trip.

Black Sea Bass: These tasty bottom-dwellers are a favorite for many anglers. You'll find them around rocky areas and reefs. In St. Marks, they typically range from 1-3 pounds, but bigger ones aren't uncommon. They're available year-round but are most active in cooler months. Black sea bass are eager biters and put up a scrappy fight for their size.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks who fish with Cap'n Leigh tend to become repeat customers, and it's easy to see why. First off, the fishing in St. Marks is just plain good. The diverse ecosystem means you've got a shot at multiple species on any given day. But it's more than just the fish – it's the whole experience. The unspoiled beauty of the Forgotten Coast, the wealth of wildlife, and the laid-back vibe all combine to create something special. Cap'n Leigh's knowledge and easy-going personality are the icing on the cake. He'll work his tail off to put you on fish, but he also knows how to keep things fun and relaxed. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a day on the water, this trip delivers.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to bend a rod and feel the tug of a big one, don't wait – spots with Cap'n Leigh fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. This 6-hour trip is the perfect blend of serious fishing time and a relaxed day on the water. Remember, all the gear is provided, so you just need to show up ready for action. Make sure you've got your Florida fishing license sorted, and don't forget the sunscreen and camera – you'll want to capture the memories (and the bragging rights). Whether you're a local looking for a quick getaway or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Florida's inshore fishing, this St. Marks trip is a sure bet. So what are you waiting for? Book now and get ready to make some waves!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black drum are some hefty customers, typically 5-30 pounds but can get up to 90. You'll find them in shallow, brackish waters around oyster beds and mudflats. These guys love to hang out near structure and crush shellfish with their strong jaws. Spring's the best time to target them as they school up to spawn. Black drum put up a stubborn fight, especially the big ones. They're not the prettiest fish, but smaller ones under 15 pounds are good eating. The bigger ones can be tough and not as tasty. To land one, try using fresh crab or shrimp on a bottom rig. Here's a local tip - listen for their distinctive drumming sound to locate a school. It's a low croaking noise that carries well underwater. Just be patient, as they can be finicky biters sometimes.

Black Sea Bass

Black sea bass are a fun catch around here, usually running 1-4 pounds. You'll find them hanging around structure like wrecks, reefs, and rocky bottoms in 30-120 feet of water. They're most active in late spring and summer when they move inshore to spawn. These fish put up a decent fight for their size and make great eating with their mild, flaky white meat. To target them, I like using a two-hook bottom rig with squid or cut bait. Drop it right on the structure and you should feel some quick bites. Just be ready to reel up fast or they'll duck back into their hidey-holes. Black sea bass are great for both experienced anglers looking for a tasty dinner and beginners wanting steady action. Plus, it's pretty cool how the big males turn bright blue during spawning season.

Cobia

Cobia are some of the most exciting fish we target around here. They're big, usually 30-50 pounds but can top 100. You'll often spot them near the surface, sometimes mistaken for sharks. These fish love structure - reefs, wrecks, buoys, you name it. Cobia are strong fighters and known for their long, powerful runs. Spring and early summer are prime times as they migrate through. They're also excellent eating, with firm, white meat that's prized by anglers and chefs alike. To catch one, I like using large jigs or live bait like eels or crabs. Here's a tip: when you see a cobia, cast well ahead of it. They're curious fish and will often investigate a lure that lands nearby. Just be ready for a battle - these guys don't give up easy. Cobia fishing is all about the thrill of the hunt and the challenge of the fight.

Redfish

Redfish, or red drum, are a favorite target around here. Adults typically run 28-33 inches, but they can get much bigger. You'll find them in super shallow water, sometimes with their backs sticking out. They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and muddy bottoms. These fish put up a great fight, especially in shallow water where they can't dive deep. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can catch 'em year-round. Redfish make excellent table fare with their mild, sweet flavor. To target them, I like using topwater lures or scented soft plastics. Work them slowly over grass flats or along shorelines. Here's a local tip: look for their distinctive tail wakes in calm, shallow water. Cast ahead of them and they'll often smash the lure. Redfish are perfect for sight fishing, which adds a whole new level of excitement to your day on the water.

Sea Trout

Sea trout, or speckled trout as we call 'em, are a staple around here. They usually run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. These fish are fun to catch - they put up a good fight and make some nice jumps. Spring and fall are prime times, but you can catch them year-round. They're great eating too, with a mild, flaky white meat. Just don't overcook 'em or they'll get mushy. To target sea trout, I like using artificial lures like topwater plugs or soft plastics. Work them slowly over grass beds or along drop-offs. Here's a tip: on cool mornings, look for them in deeper holes where the water's a bit warmer. Sea trout are perfect for all skill levels - they're not too tough to catch, but still give you a good tussle.

About the Outpost Alpha Fishing Charters

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Mercury Mariner 115

Maximum Cruising Speed: 25

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Captain Leigh Wills' vessel is your ticket to a stellar 6-hour fishing adventure on Florida's Forgotten Coast. This comfy boat has room for up to two anglers, making it perfect for a pair of friends or a parent-child duo looking to bond over some quality time on the water. As you cruise the scenic grass flats around St. Marks, you'll have all the gear you need to target redfish, sea trout, black drum, cobia, and black sea bass. The captain provides hands-on guidance, so whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, you'll be set up for success. Soak in the natural beauty of the Nature Coast while you wait for that telltale tug on your line. Remember to grab your state fishing license before hopping aboard for this extended half-day trip that promises both relaxation and the excitement of the catch.

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