Premier Inshore Fishing Charter in Florida

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Florida
$550 - $1,000 price range
Updated Date: October 22, 2025

Summary

Join Captain Steve Gould for a laid-back evening of fishing off the Florida coast. This four-hour trip is perfect for families, new anglers, and seasoned pros alike. Leaving at 4 PM, you'll cruise the nearshore waters in search of Snook, Tarpon, Permit, and more. The captain mixes up the techniques, so you might try spinning or bottom fishing depending on what's biting. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and coastal birds while you're out there. The Pathfinder boat has room for up to three guests, and all the gear you need is on board. Just remember to grab your Florida fishing license before you go. At $550, it's a great way to spend a relaxing evening on the water and maybe land some nice catches. The trip leaves from Goodland Drive, right in Goodland, FL. Just a heads up – the deposit's non-refundable, so be sure you're good to go before booking.

Premier Inshore Fishing Charter in Florida

Coastal Catches

Energetic dolphin leap behind the boat!

Massive Goliath grouper at the boat!

Incredible Goliath grouper boatside!

Gone fishing in paradise – Florida style!

Sunset Inshore Fishing: Goodland's Hidden Gems

Ready for some late afternoon action on the water? Captain Steve Gould's got you covered with this four-hour fishing adventure off the coast of Goodland, FL. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's perfect for reeling in some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. You'll be cruising on a slick Pathfinder boat, armed with top-notch gear, and chasing after the likes of Snook, Tarpon, and more. And hey, with a 4 PM start time, you might just catch one of those famous Florida sunsets while you're at it.

What's the Deal?

Kicking off at 4 in the afternoon, this trip's all about making the most of those golden hours on the water. You and up to two buddies will join Captain Steve for some prime-time fishing action. He'll get you set up with all the gear you need - we're talking quality rods, reels, and bait. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility. Whether you're itching to cast a line or just want to soak in the coastal scenery, Captain Steve's got you covered. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in the wake or pelicans diving for their dinner. It's not just about what's on the end of your line - it's the whole package.

Fishing Know-How

On this trip, you'll get to try your hand at a couple different fishing techniques. Spinning's the name of the game for most of what you'll be after. It's a versatile method that's great for beginners but still keeps things interesting for the pros. You'll be casting lures or live bait, working them through the water to entice those fish to bite. But don't worry if you're new to it - Captain Steve's got plenty of tips and tricks up his sleeve. When we're targeting some of the bottom-dwellers like Sheepshead, we'll switch gears to some bottom fishing. It's all about feeling for those subtle bites and knowing when to set the hook. By the end of the trip, you'll be reeling 'em in like a pro.

Fish Tales

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What's Biting?

Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast to catch. They're known for their blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. Spanish Mackerel usually show up in good numbers during the warmer months, and they're suckers for fast-moving lures. When they're really fired up, it's not uncommon to catch one after another. Plus, they make for some tasty eating if you're looking to bring home dinner.

Snook: Ah, the mighty Snook - Florida's premier inshore game fish. These guys are the whole package: powerful fighters, smart as whips, and absolutely beautiful to look at. They love to hang around structure like mangroves or docks, so we'll be targeting those areas. The thrill of seeing a big Snook explode on a topwater lure is hard to beat. They're catch-and-release most of the year, but even when the season's open, most folks let 'em go to fight another day.

Tarpon: If you're looking for the fight of your life, Tarpon's your fish. These silver kings can grow over 100 pounds, and when they hit your line, hold on tight! They're famous for their gill-rattling jumps and long, powerful runs. Tarpon fishing is as much about the experience as it is about landing one. Even if you don't bring one to the boat, just seeing one of these prehistoric beasts roll on the surface is a memory you won't forget.

Sheepshead: Don't let their funny looks fool you - Sheepshead are clever fish and a real treat to catch. They've got a mouthful of teeth that look just like a sheep's, hence the name. These striped bandits are masters at stealing bait, so finesse is key. They hang around pilings and oyster bars, and when you get into them, the action can be non-stop. As a bonus, they're excellent table fare if you're looking to fill the cooler.

Permit: Last but certainly not least, we've got the permit. These guys are the holy grail for many inshore anglers. They're wary, strong, and can be downright frustrating to catch - but that's what makes them so rewarding. Permit have excellent eyesight and can spook easily, so presentation is everything. They love crab and shrimp, and when you hook one, be ready for a screaming run. Landing a permit is a real notch in any angler's belt.

Time to Wet a Line

Alright, folks, let's wrap this up. This four-hour trip with Captain Steve is your ticket to some of the best inshore fishing Goodland has to offer. You've got the perfect mix of species to target, from hard-fighting game fish to tasty table fare. The late afternoon start time means you're fishing when the bite is often at its best, and you might just catch a killer sunset to boot. Whether you're looking to bend a rod with the family, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy some time on the water, this trip's got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot on the boat, and let's make some fishing memories. The fish are out there - it's time to go get 'em!

Learn more about the species

Permit

Permit are prized gamefish with a tall, flat body and deeply forked tail. You'll find them on shallow flats and around offshore structures, often in just a couple feet of water. Adults typically run 15-40 pounds, though they can reach 60. Spring and summer are prime seasons when they gather to spawn. Anglers love permit for their finicky nature and powerful runs when hooked. They're challenging to catch but offer an unmatched shallow water sight-fishing experience. Live crabs are the go-to bait, but fly fishing with crab patterns is popular too. Here's a tip: when you spot a permit, make a long cast well ahead of its path. They spook easily, so a stealthy approach is key to getting a bite.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are odd-looking fish with human-like teeth and black vertical stripes on a silver body. They hang around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs, using those teeth to crunch barnacles and crabs. Most run 1-8 pounds, though they can get up to 20. Winter and early spring are prime times to target them. Anglers enjoy the challenge of hooking sheepshead - they're notorious bait stealers. But they're also excellent eating, with firm white meat. Fiddler crabs are top bait, but shrimp work too. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, wait a second before setting the hook. Sheepshead like to nibble before fully committing, and patience often pays off with a solid hookup.

Snook

Snook are ambush predators with a distinctive black lateral line and protruding lower jaw. They hang around mangroves, docks, and other structures in shallow coastal waters. Adults typically range from 24-38 inches and put up a strong fight when hooked. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move between inshore and offshore habitats. Anglers prize snook for their clever nature and powerful runs. They're also excellent table fare, though heavily regulated. Live bait like pilchards or pinfish work well, but artificial lures can be effective too. One local trick: fish the outgoing tide around mangrove points - snook often stage there to ambush prey being swept out with the current.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are speedy swimmers, often clocking in at 5.5 meters per second. You'll usually find them in schools near the surface, both in coastal waters and offshore. They typically run 1-2 feet long and weigh 8-11 pounds. Prime season is spring through fall when they migrate along the coast. Anglers love targeting Spanish Mackerel for their fast runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. They're also excellent eating fish with a mild, slightly oily flavor. To catch them, try trolling or casting small, shiny lures like spoons or jigs that mimic their favorite baitfish. A local tip: when you spot birds diving, there's a good chance Spanish Mackerel are feeding below. Cast into the frenzy for some exciting action.

Tarpon

Tarpon are prehistoric giants, often reaching 100+ pounds and living up to 50 years. You'll find them in coastal waters, inlets, and even up into freshwater rivers. They're famous for their spectacular leaps when hooked, sometimes clearing 10 feet out of the water. Spring and early summer are prime times as they gather to spawn. Anglers chase tarpon for the thrill of the fight - they're pure muscle and incredibly strong. While not typically eaten, they're a premier catch-and-release species. Live bait like mullet or crabs work well, but fly fishing for tarpon is the ultimate challenge. Pro tip: when a tarpon jumps, lower your rod tip to give them slack - it helps keep them on the hook.

About the Pathfinder

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 45

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 3

Hop aboard Captain Steve Gould's Pathfinder boat for a laid-back evening of fishing off the Florida coast. This four-hour trip leaves Goodland at 4:00 PM, perfect for anglers of all skill levels looking to unwind and cast a line as the sun starts to set. You'll cruise the nearshore waters in search of prized catches like Snook, Tarpon, Permit, Sheepshead, and Spanish Mackerel. Captain Steve provides all the gear and know-how, whether you prefer spinning reels or bottom fishing. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins and coastal birds while you're out there too. With room for up to six people, it's a great way to spend quality time with family or friends on the water. Just remember to grab your Florida fishing license before you go. The boat leaves from Goodland Drive, so you'll be out on the Gulf in no time.

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