Top-Rated Inshore Fishing | Homosassa Adventure

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Homosassa
$450 - $600 price range
Updated Date: August 19, 2025

Summary

Get ready for a fun-filled half-day of fishing in the beautiful waters of Homosassa. This 4-hour private trip runs from September through June, perfect for up to 4 anglers looking to reel in some action. We'll head out at 8 AM to explore the scenic backwaters and inshore spots of the Gulf, targeting a variety of game fish along the way. Captain Duane Tibbetts brings years of local knowledge to make sure you're on the fish. No need to worry about gear - we've got you covered with quality rods, reels, bait, and lures. Just bring your favorite drinks and snacks to enjoy while you're out on the water. Whether you're an experienced angler or it's your first time casting a line, this trip offers something for everyone. At $500 for two people, it's a great way to spend a morning on the water and create some lasting fishing memories. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so book with confidence and get ready for some serious fishing fun!

Top-Rated Inshore Fishing | Homosassa Adventure

Inshore Action Shots

Fresh shellfish haul on calm waters.

Impressive redfish catch on a sunny day.

4 spotted weakfish and spanish mackerel fish caught in FL

Fresh speckled trout haul.

Huge jack crevalle catch!

Half Day Fishing: Homosassa's Hidden Gems

Ready to wet a line in some of Florida's most productive inshore waters? Capt. Duane Tibbetts has got you covered with this action-packed 4-hour trip out of Homosassa. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this private charter for up to 4 people is the perfect way to experience the rich fishery of the Nature Coast. From the backcountry mangroves to the grass flats of the Gulf, we'll put you on fish and show you why Homosassa is a top-rated destination for inshore fishing.

What's the Deal?

For $500, you and a buddy (or three) can hop aboard for a morning of non-stop fishing action. We'll push off at 8 AM sharp, giving us prime time on the water when the fish are most active. Capt. Duane provides all the gear you'll need - rods, reels, bait, and lures - so all you have to do is show up ready to fish. Don't forget to pack some snacks and your favorite drinks to keep you fueled up. This trip runs from September through June, hitting the sweet spot for a variety of gamefish that call these waters home.

Fishing the Flats

On this trip, we'll be targeting the inshore slam: redfish, sea trout, and if we're lucky, maybe even a tarpon. Capt. Duane knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put his years of experience to work finding the hotspots. We might start by drifting the grass flats, tossing soft plastics for trout, or working the mangrove shorelines for redfish. If the Spanish mackerel are running, we might run and gun, following the birds to find the schools. The beauty of inshore fishing is the variety - every cast could bring something different to the boat.

What's Biting?

Homosassa's waters are teeming with gamefish, and what we target will depend on the season and conditions. Here's a rundown of what you might hook into:

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are a favorite among anglers. They love to hang around oyster bars and mangroves, and when they hit, you'll know it. The "bull" reds can top 40 inches, giving you a real battle on light tackle.

Sea Trout: The spotted seatrout is a staple of inshore fishing. They're abundant on the grass flats and put up a great fight, often leaping out of the water. The "gator" trout (over 20 inches) are prized catches.

Spanish Mackerel: Fast and furious, Spanish mackerel provide non-stop action when they're running. They're usually found in schools, so when you find them, it's game on. Great eating, too!

Tarpon: Known as the "silver king," tarpon are the holy grail of inshore fishing. They're not always easy to find, but when you hook one, get ready for the fight of your life. These acrobatic fish can top 100 pounds and will test your skills and stamina.

Cobia: While not as common inshore, we sometimes encounter cobia around structures or following large rays. They're curious fish and hard fighters, offering a great challenge and excellent table fare.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Fishing with Capt. Duane isn't just about catching fish - it's about the whole experience. You'll learn new techniques, hear some salty tales, and gain insights into the local ecosystem. The scenery alone is worth the trip, with crystal-clear springs, abundant wildlife, and the chance to spot manatees or dolphins. It's a hands-on adventure that's different every time you go out, making it perfect for both first-timers and repeat customers.

Time to Wet a Line

So, are you ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Florida has to offer? This 4-hour trip with Capt. Duane Tibbetts is your ticket to a world-class angling adventure right in Homosassa's backyard. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn new skills, or just enjoy a morning on the water, this trip delivers. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book your adventure. Grab your hat, sunscreen, and sense of adventure - the fish are waiting!

Learn more about the species

Cobia

Cobia are powerful fish that'll give you a real workout. They average 3-4 feet and 30-50 pounds, but can grow over 6 feet and 100 pounds. Look for them around structure like reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-70 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime time as they migrate and spawn inshore. Cobia are loners, so spotting one is exciting. They put up an impressive fight and taste great too - firm, white meat perfect for grilling. To land one, try sight fishing with bucktail jigs in the 4-8 oz range. Don't be afraid to use big lures - these fish aren't picky eaters. A local tip: when you see a cobia, get your bait in front of it fast. They can lose interest quickly, so you've got to act fast for your best shot at hooking up.

Redfish

Redfish are a blast to catch in the shallows. They typically run 20-30 inches and 6-8 pounds, but can reach over 40 inches and 50 pounds. You'll find them in super shallow water, often just 1-4 feet deep around oyster bars, grass flats, and mangroves. Fall and winter are great times to target them as they school up. Redfish put up a stubborn fight, using their broad tails to power away. Anglers love their distinctive look with that black spot near the tail. They're also delicious - mild and sweet. To catch them, try topwater lures early morning or evening for explosive strikes. A favorite local trick is to chum with cut bait to get a school fired up, then toss a live shrimp or small crab in there. Hold on tight!

Sea Trout

Sea trout are a bread and butter inshore species. They typically run 14-20 inches and 1-3 pounds, though gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. Look for them over grass flats and around creek mouths in 3-6 feet of water. Fall and winter are great times as they school up. Trout are fun on light tackle and make for good eating too - mild, flaky meat that's hard to beat. Anglers love their aggressive strikes and the challenge of finding the school. To catch them, try a popping cork rig with live shrimp or soft plastics. A local tip: when you catch one, keep casting to the same spot. Where there's one trout, there's usually more. These fish are suckers for a well-presented bait under low light conditions.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are fast, flashy fish known for their sharp teeth, streamlined bodies, and lightning runs once hooked. Typically ranging from 2–5 pounds, they’re prized for both their fight and table fare. Anglers often spot them schooling near the surface, chasing baitfish with explosive strikes. Commonly caught inshore and nearshore, they respond well to trolling, casting spoons, or drifting with live bait. Their speed and abundance make them a favorite target for anglers of all skill levels, offering plenty of action on light tackle.

Tarpon

Tarpon are the silver kings of inshore fishing. These prehistoric gamefish can reach 8 feet and 280 pounds, though 80-100 pounders are more common. Their armor-like scales and massive underslung jaws make for an impressive sight. You'll find tarpon rolling and gulping air in coastal rivers, bays, and beaches. They migrate through our waters from April to October, with peak action in summer. Look for them around bridges, channel edges, and sand bars. Tarpon fishing is all about the challenge. Their acrobatic leaps and long, powerful runs will test your skills and equipment. Landing one is a true trophy, though we practice catch and release to protect the fishery. For the best shot at a tarpon, I like to drift live mullet or crabs in likely areas. Be ready for explosive strikes and immediate jumps. A bow to the king when they leap helps keep them hooked. Patience and persistence are key - it may take all day for that one epic battle.

About the Capt. Duane Tibbetts

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 20

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Get ready for an action-packed 4-hour fishing adventure in the beautiful waters around Homosassa! This private trip is perfect for up to 4 anglers looking to reel in some exciting catches. We'll head out at 8 AM to explore the scenic backwaters and inshore areas of the Gulf, targeting a variety of game fish along the way. Don't worry about gear - we've got you covered with quality rods, reels, bait, and lures. Your experienced captain will be there to offer tips and tricks throughout the journey. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to fishing, you're sure to have a blast and create some great memories out on the water. Remember to pack your favorite drinks and snacks to enjoy during the trip. This seasonal adventure runs from September through June, so book your spot for some fantastic Florida fishing!

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