Inshore Fishing Charters for Stuart, FL

Experience the Inshore fishing charter of a lifetime in Stuart, FL.

Daymaker has an exclusive partnership with Snook Nook Charters, Stuart, FL’s premier inshore fishing experts for all of your inshore fishing needs. Since 1949, Snook Nook has been leading anglers through the captivating waters of the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River.

Choose from a range of charter options – half-day, 3/4 day, full-day, and unique night trips. Our partnership ensures you have access to the best gear, licenses, and local knowledge.

Target diverse species such as Snook, Tarpon, Redfish, and Trout with expert inshore fishing guide Justin Rieger. This partnership combines Daymaker’s commitment to quality experiences with Snook Nook’s deep-rooted fishing expertise.

As part of the Daymaker family, Snook Nook Charters extends our promise of unforgettable experiences. Book your next inshore fishing adventure with us and be part of an enduring legacy. Visit Snook Nook Charters to learn more.

More info on inshore fishing in Stuart, FL

The four most sought after species encountered in and around the Indian River Lagoon, the St. Lucie River and surrounding estuaries are snook, tarpon, redfish and trout. Catching any of the three of these species in a single day during your river fishing charter is considered an “inshore slam.” Catching an “inshore slam” is the ultimate accomplishment for a seasoned angler let alone a novice. As your fishing guide, I’ll do all I can to help you achieve an inshore slam! Most of the fishing is done on light tackle – not only does it produce better results, it’s also easier for the novice angler.

Snook – Year round and great table fare

Snook are the most popular targeted inshore species in Southeast Florida. You can fish for snook in a variety of ways both during the day and night. During the day you can sight fish for snook around the inlet, docks and grass flats. When the snook are spotted it’s the angler’s preference whether to throw a live bait, artificial lure or a fly. Spotting your targeted fish, casting to it, watching it eat and then catching it is the most rewarding feeling in the world of fishing. During your day of fishing in the river you may also spend some time in tiny canals lined with docks or mangroves where you can sight fish for these prized fish of the Indian River Lagoon. Fishing at night for snook is equally as exciting, if not more than, daytime fishing. As the tides rip in and out small bait gets caught up in the fast moving water. Snook, tarpon, jacks, ladyfish and other species wait in the shadows of lights surrounding docks and bridges to ambush prey as it drifts by in the river current. Live bait, artificial bait and flies can be presented to these lurking predators of the night! Nighttime fishing gives the fish a place to gather and it’s not uncommon to see 20-50 fish piled up in one area competing for passing baitfish.

Snook can be caught year round and make for great table fare. But, they are a closely regulated species with seasons running from February 1st to May 31st and then again from September 1st to December 15th.

Tarpon – Stuart’s biggest inshore fish

Tarpon are Stuart’s (and the whole of Florida’s) largest inshore game fish. They are caught in the rivers, the inlet and on the beaches from April through October. Ranging in weights from 30-150lbs the silver king will test any angler’s endurance. Tarpon, aside from the lengthy battles, are also known for their amazing acrobatics. They will give any offshore billfish or large dolphin a run for their money when it comes to aerial displays. Tarpon are catch and release only and are caught using a variety of techniques including live bait, fly tackle, and artificial lures.

Complete the inshore Grand Slam with trout and redfish

Trout and redfish round out the inshore slam species and both are excellent eating and provide a great fight on ultra-light tackle. The majority of our trout and redfish are caught fishing the grass flats from Jensen Beach to Ft. Pierce Inlet. One of the favorite methods for most of the anglers, especially our kid anglers, is casting a popping cork with a live shrimp or finger mullet below it for bait. Other methods would include casting small artificial soft plastic baits or gold spoons. Trout and redfish are caught year round.

During the winter months the weather may be too rough for your offshore fishing charter. So charter fishing in the inshore river provides a great back-up plan. From November through March we see a large influx of pompano, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel. While all 3 species are good eating pompano stands alone as being excellent table fare. It is not uncommon to have a bite or catch a fish every cast during the winter months when targeting these species. Along with the bluefish, Spanish and pompano you will encounter a variety of species of snapper in the river, goliath grouper, jacks and ladyfish.

On those super calm and sunny South Florida days we can sneak offshore to our near coastal wrecks and reefs to target Cobia and Permit – two of the most chased after species for light-tackle enthusiasts. Both of the species are targeted in depths from 5 ft. to 75 ft. of water and within a couple of miles of the St. Lucie inlet. Cobia can be caught using live bait, crabs, or jigs rigged with a soft plastic bait. Permit are primarily caught on jigs tipped with a live crab. Both species can be targeted with fly rod as well. Both fish are notorious for putting up serious fights and are excellent table fare. The average size cobia is around 25lbs and it is not uncommon to catch them over 50 lbs. Permit range in sizes from 15-45lbs as well. Make sure you eat your Wheaties before heading offshore to tangle with these gamefish.

Charter FAQ's

Book the perfect fishing adventure for you with DayMaker Fishing Charters in Stuart, Florida. We have a charter option for every angler’s preference and schedule.
What is included in my charter?
The “DayMaker” will provide 110% effort, professional and courteous service from your Captain. All bait, tackle, foul weather gear, ice, cleaning of your fish and fishing licenses that are required for you to fish are provided by the boat at no additional cost. Lunch and beverages for your fishing charter can be picked up and loaded on the boat for you by your Captain. Reimbursement of the food and drinks will be required at the conclusion of the trip. A receipt will be provided for you at that time.

A deposit will be charged to your card if you do not show for your fishing charter and it has not been cancelled within a 14 day window proceeding your trip departure time.  All trips cancelled at the Captain’s discretion because of weather or boat issues will not be charged a deposit.  The deposit rate for a 1/2 day is $500 and the deposit rate for all other trips is $750 per day.

Weather Issues: Any trip decisions involving the weather are at the sole discretion of the Captain. If the Captain determines the weather is not suitable for fishing anywhere, your deposit will be returned

NOTE: NO HANDHELD GPS.  THEY WILL BE CONFISCATED!

We offer a range of charters including half-day, three-quarter day, and full-day trips. Each is designed to cater to different fishing experiences, from quick trips to full-day adventures targeting specific species. You can see pricing and book a charter here.

No, beginners are welcome! Our experienced crew will provide guidance and assistance for all skill levels, ensuring a great experience for everyone on board.
  • a still or video camera
  • sunscreen, hat and polarized sunglasses
  • sweatshirt during the winter months
  • a cooler to take your catch home
  • food and drink (alcohol permitted)
  • Flip Flops or boat shoes with non black soles
  • If prone to seasickness it is strongly recommended that you take medicine the night before your trip and again in the morning with a light breakfast.
Yes, within legal limits and regulations. Our crew will inform you about the catch limits and help with cleaning and bagging your catch.
We provide water, but you should bring your own snacks and drinks. Alcoholic beverages are allowed in moderation.
We can accommodate up to 6 anglers on a charter.
Safety is our priority. We closely monitor weather conditions and may reschedule the trip if necessary. In cases of severe weather, we offer a full refund or rescheduling option if we are unable to fish due to inclement weather.
Tipping isn’t required, but greatly appreciated. Most clients tip 20% of the charter rate.

You recommend that you book directly through our website but you can also call us if you have questions before booking. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

Depending on the season and charter type, you can target Sailfish, Dolphin, Tuna, Snapper, Grouper, Kingfish and much more. Our experienced crew will guide you to the best spots for the day’s conditions.

Yes, children are welcome! We ensure a safe, family-friendly environment. However, we advise parental discretion for very young children due to the nature of the sea conditions.

The distance varies based on the charter type and target species, but typically, we travel anywhere from 3 to 15 miles offshore.
Absolutely! Let us know your preference, and we’ll do our best to tailor the trip to your fishing goals, subject to seasonal availability and regulations.
The cost of your charter covers most necessities. However, gratuities for the crew are always appreciated for exceptional service and are not included in the charter price.
Fishing is world class year round in Stuart, FL. Each season offers a different and new variety of fish to catch.