Apalachicola Bay is one of the most fertile estuaries in Florida, made rich with the muddy flow of Chattahoochee and Flint rivers. These two rivers come from Georgia, merge at the Woodruff Dam, and then form the Apalachicola River.
There is much to explore in Apalachicola Bay, home to over 100 fish species, which live among the channels, grassy flats, sand bars, small island, and oyster bars. Capture new experiences in this vast 25-mile stretch of stunning white sand beach within Franklin County. This Apalachicola Bay Fishing Guide gives you all the key insights to have an unforgettable experience.
Where to Fish
There are many exciting fishing spots for you to set up and cast a line. You will also find a variety of offshore and inshore fishing locations throughout St. George Island without having to use a charter. If you wish to venture over to Alligator Point, it is only 50 miles away.
One of the best fishing piers in the bay is located on the northern side of St. George Island. This St. George Island fishing pier extends 600 feet out into the water, allowing simple access to all the fun bay species. Anglers can enjoy this optimal fishing spot without paying any fees. You can also participate in kayak fishing, whether you bring your boat or rent one from the shop.
What You May Catch
Apalachicola is very rich in nutrients, giving rise to an abundant oyster population. Therefore, there is an extensive food chain of fish to catch, which makes Apalachicola a prime deep-sea fishing destination.
The Apalachicola provides redfish, speckled trout, sheepshead, black drum, and flounder year-round. Between March and November, you are likely to catch pompano, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, ladyfish, sharks, and tripletail.
If you surf fish, you can find these fish and sharks when the water is above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You will most likely find fish offshore like the grouper, red snapper, cobia, jack crevalle, mahi-mahi, and amberjack. Within June, July, and August, you will enjoy a wide selection of tarpon.
Charter Tours
In addition to the comprehensive local bait and tackle shops, expert guides and guide services are available for hire on a full-day or half-day basis. All the Apalachicola Bay fishing charters provide the required rods, reels, licenses, bait, and tackle.
St. Vincent Island Fishing Shuttle Services & Fishing Charters
You can discover St. Vincent Island while riding along in a 24-foot pontoon with the captain, Joey Romanelli. Not only can you enjoy fishing charter and shelling trips, but you can explore cruises too. You can walk down the beaches or hike along the trails. The shuttle service enables you to find out more about St. Vincent Island through bird watching, surf fishing, or shelling.
Mighty Joe Charters
Mighty Joe Charters satisfies all your fishing adventure cravings with its one-stop-shop. Capt. David Folkes offers both on- and offshore fishing trips. You can experience a dolphin or sunset cruises while enjoying a peaceful afternoon or morning in the bay.
Center Console Fishing Charters
Center Console Fishing Charters formed in 2006 by Captain Andrew Sapp. Sapp knows Apalachicola Bay better than most because he grew up in the area. His business offers shelling adventures, fishing trips, and sightseeing excursions for the whole family. Center Console also offers packages for half-day, full-day, and offshore tours.
The Wheelhouse Adventure Tours
The Wheelhouse Adventure Tours, owned by a Coast Guard licensed business, offer you a variety of different excursions around the island:
- Bay Adventure Tours: jump aboard a double-deck, 28-inch pontoon boat for memorable cruises and eco-tours, capturing both St. Vincent and Little St. George Islands (SGI).
- A Day on the Bay: enjoy a daylong trek through the Apalachicola river with the captain to view the most picturesque dolphin locations.
- Sunset on The Bay: this charter features a spectacular Forgotten Coast sunset.
Robinson Brothers Guide Service
Captains and brothers Tommy and Chris Robinson are two of the most renowned Floridian saltwater guides. Their guide service has been showcased in journals like Southern Living, Men’s Journal, Sports Afield, Outdoor Life, and Field & Stream. These exploratory trips are available throughout the year on both St. Joe and Apalachicola Bay.
Southern Salinity Guide Service
Boat tours like Southern Salinity are the perfect photo opportunity. You can enjoy a customized trip by selecting either Apalachicola River, Bay, or Barrier Island. Whether you bring your family or embark on a professional sightseeing fishing trip, this guide service is another excellent option.
Boat Rentals
Are you interested in renting your own boat to fulfill your fishing experience? There are a couple of fun options to try.
Gunner Pontoon Rental
Mike and Debbie Mock founded Gunner Pontoon in 2016 with a passion for the fishing life in mind. Located in Carrabelle, Florida, this business is family-owned. You can enjoy the barrier islands and rivers, including the gorgeous Apalachicola Bay. Gunner Pontoon’s standard boat can hold up to eleven passengers, so you have ample room for family and friends.
Apalachicola Boat Rentals & Wefings Marine
Wefings Marine, located in Eastpoint, is a professional dealership with service for boats, motors, and trailers. Its fleet includes Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha, and Tohatsu. Wefings sells, rents, and finances its boats, trailers, and motors so that you can explore the area, including the Gulf of Mexico.
Wrap Up
With all of the great opportunities in Apalachicola, you’re sure to find something that suits your fishing desires. From the beautiful scenery to the wide variety of catches, you can’t go wrong fishing in Apalachicola.
