Ready for some real fishing action right off Jacksonville Beach? El Cazador Fishing Charters has you covered with our 4-hour private trip that'll have you hooked from start to finish. We're talking about the kind of morning where the sun's barely up, and you're already battling it out with some of Florida's most prized catches. This isn't your average day on the water – it's a full-on fishing frenzy that's perfect for everyone, whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod. We've got all the gear, bait, and know-how to make sure you're in for a top-notch fishing experience. And the best part? We'll clean your catch so you can focus on the thrill of reeling 'em in. So grab your crew, because this is the trip that'll have you swapping fish tales for years to come.
When you step aboard with El Cazador, you're in for a real treat. We'll cruise out from Jacksonville Beach, hitting up some of the hottest spots where the fish are practically jumping into the boat. Our captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you'll be dropping lines where the action's at its peak. We use a mix of techniques depending on what's biting – could be bottom fishing for those tasty red snapper, or sight casting for some monster redfish. The gear we provide is top-of-the-line stuff, none of that rusty old junk. Fresh bait, sharp hooks, and rods that can handle whatever decides to bite. And don't sweat the small stuff – your fishing license is covered, so all you need to bring is your game face and maybe a snack or two. Whether the fish are running or playing hard to get, you're guaranteed a morning full of laughs, learns, and hopefully a cooler full of dinner.
Folks keep booking with El Cazador because we deliver the goods, plain and simple. It's not just about catching fish – though we do plenty of that. It's about the whole package. Our captain's got stories that'll keep you entertained between bites, and the kind of local knowledge that puts you right where you need to be. We're not about fancy-schmancy; we're about getting you on the fish and making sure you have a blast doing it. Plus, we know how to read the water and the weather, so even if conditions aren't perfect, we'll make the most of your time out there. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like the feeling of reeling in a big one with your buddies cheering you on. That's the kind of stuff that brings people back trip after trip.
"Great trip Captain Wayne knows where to go to get away from everyone even with a big tournament going on in the area. We caught a few that wasn't big enough, but still had I good time. On the way out he put us on some big red fish too big to keep but was fun to catch. Overall a good day on the water. Thank you Captain Wayne for the trip. We are looking into planing another one." - Tonya
"I sent my Dad and his boys for Father's Day. They had a great time and became raving fans of Captain Wayne. Though it was also the weekend for a big tournament, Wayne knew just the place to take them so my dad could show them young boys up, by bringing in the biggest fish. Thanks, Captain for making this a memorable time for them all." - Tonya
Sheepshead: These striped bandits are a favorite among local anglers, and for good reason. They're crafty little devils, known for their ability to steal bait without getting hooked. But when you do hook one, it's game on. Sheepshead put up a good fight and make for some mighty fine eating. They hang around structures like pilings and reefs, so we'll be targeting those spots. Spring is prime time for sheepshead, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look.
Redfish: Now we're talking about a real Jacksonville staple. These copper-colored beauties are what dreams are made of for many anglers. They can grow to over 40 inches, and when they're big, we call 'em "bull reds." They'll test your skills and your gear, that's for sure. We often find them cruising the flats or hanging around oyster beds. Fall is fantastic for redfish, but they're around all year. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the sound of a screaming drag when a big red takes off with your line.
Cobia: These guys are like the marathon runners of the fish world. They're long, lean, and boy, can they fight. Cobia are migratory, showing up in our waters as they follow the bait schools. Spring and early summer are your best bets for hooking into one of these bad boys. They love to hang around structures, so we'll be checking out wrecks and reefs. When you hook a cobia, hold on tight – they're known for their powerful runs and aerial acrobatics.
Red Snapper: If you're after a true deep-sea delicacy, red snapper is your target. These ruby-red beauties are a prized catch, known for their firm, white flesh that's a hit on any dinner table. We'll be dropping lines over rocky bottoms and reefs where these guys like to hang out. The season for red snapper is strictly regulated, so when it's open, you better believe we'll be out there making the most of it. They can grow to impressive sizes, so be ready for a workout when you're reeling one in from the depths.
Brook Trout: Now, I know what you're thinking – brook trout in Jacksonville? While it's not common in our saltwater, some folks might be interested in targeting these beauties in freshwater areas nearby. Brook trout are actually char, known for their stunning colors and delicate flavor. They prefer cold, clean waters, so we'd have to head to some of the spring-fed streams in the region to find them. These fish are a treat to catch on light tackle, and they put up a spirited fight despite their size. If you're up for a change of pace from our usual saltwater action, we can talk about arranging a special trip to target these gems.
Alright, folks, let's cut to the chase – this 4-hour trip with El Cazador Fishing Charters is the real deal. We're talking about a morning packed with non-stop action, expert guidance, and the chance to reel in some of Jacksonville's finest. Whether you're looking to score your personal best or just want to enjoy some quality time on the water with friends and family, we've got you covered. Remember, we take care of all the nitty-gritty details so you can focus on what matters – catching fish and having a blast. The tides wait for no one, and neither do the fish, so don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers. Grab your phone, round up your crew, and let's get you booked for a fishing adventure you'll be bragging about for years to come. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner. So what are you waiting for? Let's make some waves and memories – book your trip with El Cazador today!
June 15, 2025
I sent my Dad and his boys for Father's Day. They had a great time and became raving fans of Captain Wayne. Though it was also the weekend for a big tournament, Wayne knew just the place to take them so my dad could show them young boys up, by bringing in the biggest fish. Thanks, Captain for making this a memorable time for them all.
June 16, 2025
Brook trout are the jewels of our mountain streams. These beautiful, speckled fish typically run 8-12 inches, though bigger ones are possible. You'll find them in cold, clear headwaters and high-elevation creeks. Spring and fall are prime seasons when the water temps are just right. Anglers love the challenge of fishing small streams and the reward of landing a wild brookie. They're not the biggest fish, but they make up for it in beauty and the pristine settings they call home. Dry flies and small spinners work well, but you've got to be stealthy – these fish are easily spooked. Here's a local tip: focus on the pockets behind boulders and fallen logs where brook trout like to hide from the current. A well-placed cast can often entice a strike from these eager feeders.
Cobia are one of those fish that'll really get your heart pumping. These solitary swimmers can reach 6 feet and 100 pounds, though most we see are in the 30-50 pound range. They love structure, so we target them around reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-70 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime, when they migrate through our waters. Cobia are known for their curiosity – they'll often come right up to the boat to check things out. That's when you want to be ready with a bucktail jig or live eel. These fish fight like crazy, making long runs and even jumping occasionally. Their firm, white meat is considered some of the best eating around. Pro tip: always keep a rod rigged and ready when you're out there. You never know when a cobia might show up.
Red snapper are the crown jewels of our offshore reefs. These beautiful, bright red fish typically run 5-20 pounds, but can get much bigger. You'll find them holding tight to structure in 100-300 feet of water. Late spring through summer is prime time, when regulations allow us to target them. Snapper fishing is all about finding the right spot and getting your bait down through the water column. Once you hook up, be ready for a fight – these fish pull hard and will try to dive back into the structure. Anglers love the challenge and the reward of landing a big snapper. Their flaky white meat is some of the best-tasting fish in the sea. Here's a trick: when you find a good snapper spot, mark it on your GPS. These fish often return to the same areas year after year.
Redfish, or red drum, are a prized catch in Jacksonville's shallows. You'll find these copper-colored beauties, with their distinctive tail spot, cruising in water as shallow as 1-4 feet. They average around 28-33 inches, but can grow much larger. Reds love hanging around oyster beds, grass flats, and muddy bottoms. Fall and spring are prime seasons when they're most active. Anglers get a kick out of sight-fishing for them in clear shallows – watching a big red crush a topwater lure is hard to beat. They put up a strong fight and make for some tasty eating too. Here's a local tip: on calm mornings, look for their tails sticking up out of the water as they root for crabs in the shallows. Approach quietly and you might get a shot at a trophy red.
Sheepshead are a unique catch around Jacksonville's structures. These crafty fish, with their human-like teeth, typically range from 1-8 pounds and love hanging around barnacle-covered pilings, docks, and reefs. They're masters at stealing bait, so you've got to be quick on the hook-set. Spring's the prime time to target them as they gather to spawn. Anglers enjoy the challenge of outwitting these striped "convict fish," and their sweet, white meat makes for excellent table fare. To up your odds, try scraping some barnacles off the pilings to create a natural chum slick. Just remember, their tough scales and spines can make cleaning a bit tricky, but the taste is worth the effort. Light tackle and patience are key – these guys are clever, but the fight and flavor make sheepshead a local favorite.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
Great trip Captain Wayne knows where to go to get away from everyone even with a big tournament going on in the area. We caught a few that wasn’t big enough, but still had I good time. On the way out he put us on some big red fish too big to keep but was fun to catch. Overall a good day on the water. Thank you Captain Wayne for the trip. We are looking into planing another one.