Amelia Island Fishing Guide
Inshore, Offshore & Surf Fishing • Best Charters • Seasonal Species
Amelia Island sits at the confluence of the Nassau Sound, Amelia River, and Atlantic Ocean—creating one of Northeast Florida's richest fishing ecosystems. Whether you're stalking redfish in the marshes, trolling for kingfish offshore, or casting from the surf at dawn, this island delivers. After years of fishing these waters, here's everything you need to plan your trip.
Three Ways to Fish Amelia Island
🎣 Inshore Fishing
Year-RoundThe marshes, creeks, and flats surrounding Amelia Island offer world-class inshore fishing. Target redfish, spotted seatrout, flounder, and sheepshead in waters typically under 15 feet deep. This is sight-fishing territory—polarized sunglasses and a skilled captain make all the difference. Half-day trips are ideal; fish are most active early morning and late afternoon.
Best spots: Nassau Sound, Amelia River, Lofton Creek, Tiger Island
Charter cost: $400-550 for half-day (4 hours), $600-750 full day
🦈 Offshore Fishing
April - OctoberHead 15-60 miles offshore for pelagic species: kingfish, cobia, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and various tuna. Bottom fishing produces grouper, snapper, and amberjack. Full-day trips (8-10 hours) are standard; expect 1-2 hours of run time each way. The Gulf Stream sits about 50-60 miles out, but productive water starts much closer.
Best spots: Nassau Sound Reef, FA Buoy, various artificial reefs
Charter cost: $1,200-1,800 for full day (6-8 passengers)
🏖️ Surf & Pier Fishing
Year-RoundNo boat, no problem. The beaches offer excellent surf fishing for whiting, pompano, redfish, and bluefish. Amelia Island State Park at the southern tip is legendary for shark fishing—the convergence of currents creates a feeding zone. Fort Clinch's jetties produce sheepshead, flounder, and occasional tarpon.
Best spots: Amelia Island State Park, Fort Clinch jetties, Peters Point
Cost: $6 parking at state park, tackle and bait from local shops
Seasonal Species Calendar
Timing matters. Here's what's biting when:
| Species | Peak Season | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Redfish | Year-round (best Sept-Nov) | Inshore marshes, flats, docks |
| Spotted Seatrout | Year-round (best Oct-Feb) | Grass flats, creek mouths |
| Flounder | March - November | Sandy bottoms, structure |
| Sheepshead | December - April | Jetties, bridges, pilings |
| Tarpon | May - August | Nassau Sound, inlets |
| Kingfish | March - October | Offshore, 5-20 miles |
| Cobia | March - June | Nearshore, following rays |
| Mahi-Mahi | May - September | Offshore, 30+ miles |
| Sharks | Year-round (best summer) | Southern tip, Nassau Sound |
| Pompano | October - April | Surf, sandbars |
Top Fishing Charters
I've vetted these captains personally. All operate from Fernandina Beach and know these waters intimately.
Amelia Island Charters
Captain Scott runs inshore trips, sunset cruises, and nature tours. Great for families and first-timers. Patient with kids and genuinely passionate about the island's ecosystem.
Half-day from $450 | (904) 335-1162
Amelia Island Sport Fishing
Captain Billy specializes in offshore adventures—bottom fishing, trolling, and shark fishing. Recent catches include 8ft bull sharks, tarpon over 6 feet, and solid red drum action.
Offshore from $1,200 | (904) 583-0818
Amelia Backwater Fishing Co.
Focused exclusively on inshore and backwater fishing. Light tackle specialists targeting redfish, trout, and flounder in the marshes and creeks.
Half-day from $400
Best Fishing Spots
Nassau Sound
The convergence point where the Nassau River meets the Atlantic. Strong currents create feeding opportunities for tarpon, sharks, redfish, and flounder. Fish the tide changes.
Fort Clinch Jetties
The rock jetties at the island's north end produce sheepshead, flounder, and occasional tarpon. Accessible from shore—no boat needed. Best at incoming tide.
Amelia Island State Park
The southern tip where St. Mary's River meets the ocean. Famous for shark fishing—bulls, blacktips, and lemons cruise these waters. Also produces redfish, pompano, and whiting.
Tiger Island
Marsh islands in the Amelia River. Classic redfish territory with oyster bars, grass flats, and creek mouths. Requires boat access and local knowledge.
Lofton Creek
Freshwater influence creates a unique ecosystem. Excellent for spotted seatrout and redfish. Kayak-friendly for DIY anglers.
Nassau Sound Bridge
Fish the shadow lines and current breaks. Produces flounder, sheepshead, and redfish. Accessible by boat or from the Goffinsville Park fishing pier.
DIY vs. Charter: What to Choose
Book a charter if: You're visiting for the first time, want guaranteed action, don't have your own gear, or want to target offshore species. Local captains know where fish are holding today—not just where they were last month. The $400-500 investment for a half-day inshore trip is worth it for a quality experience.
DIY fishing works if: You have local knowledge or time to scout, own appropriate tackle, and target accessible species. Surf fishing from the beach is completely doable without a guide. Kayak fishing the backwaters can be productive once you learn the spots.
What to Bring
Charter boats provide all tackle, bait, and licenses. But pack these essentials:
- Sunscreen - SPF 50+, reef-safe preferred
- Polarized sunglasses - Essential for sight fishing and reducing glare
- Hat with brim - Sun protection is serious on the water
- Non-marking shoes - Required on most charter boats
- Light layers - Morning runs can be cool even in summer
- Cooler with drinks/snacks - Most captains allow, some provide
- Motion sickness prevention - Take before boarding if prone to seasickness
- Cash for tip - 15-20% is standard for good service
Ready to Book Your Fishing Trip?
Browse local fishing charters and book directly
View All Fishing Charters More ActivitiesFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license in Amelia Island?
If you're fishing with a licensed charter captain, their license covers you—no personal license needed. For DIY fishing (surf, pier, kayak), Florida residents and visitors both need a license. Get one online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. A 3-day visitor license costs about $17.
What's the best time of year to fish Amelia Island?
Something's always biting, but fall (September-November) is prime time. The mullet run triggers aggressive feeding from redfish, tarpon, and sharks. Spring (March-May) is excellent for cobia and sheepshead. Winter offers great trout fishing. Summer means offshore action but hot, crowded conditions.
How much does a fishing charter cost?
Inshore half-day trips (4 hours) run $400-550 for up to 4 anglers. Full-day inshore trips cost $600-750. Offshore full-day trips (8+ hours) range from $1,200-1,800 depending on distance and boat size. Prices typically include tackle, bait, and licenses. Tip 15-20% for good service.
Can you fish from the beach on Amelia Island?
Absolutely. Surf fishing is productive year-round. Target pompano, whiting, and redfish from any beach access point. Amelia Island State Park at the southern tip is the best spot—famous for shark fishing. You'll need a Florida fishing license for shore-based fishing.