Get ready for a full day of non-stop action on the crystal-clear waters of Crystal River, Florida. Capt. David's 8-hour charter trip is the real deal for anglers looking to reel in some of the best inshore fishing the Sunshine State has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. We're talking about targeting some of Florida's most sought-after game fish, with the chance to turn your catch into a fresh-cooked meal right on the water. Now that's what I call the complete package!
Hop aboard Capt. David's well-equipped boat for a full 8 hours of prime fishing time. We'll cruise through Crystal River's inshore waters, hitting all the local hotspots where the fish are biting. Capt. David knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for some serious action. The best part? After you've had your fill of casting and reeling, we'll pull up to one of the area's picturesque islands. Here's where things get interesting - Capt. David will clean and grill up some of your catch right there on the spot. It's the ultimate fish-to-dish experience that'll have you savoring every bite of your hard-earned catch.
On this trip, we're all about light tackle fishing. You'll be using top-notch gear that's perfect for battling it out with the local inshore species. We'll be targeting snook, grey snapper, sea trout, and redfish - some of Florida's most prized inshore game fish. Capt. David's got all the tricks up his sleeve, from live bait fishing to artificial lures. He'll show you how to work the grass flats, mangrove shorelines, and oyster bars where these fish love to hang out. And don't worry if you're new to this - Capt. David's got the patience of a saint and will walk you through every cast, retrieve, and hook set.
"Great day on the water! Dave was ready when we arrived. He was very through with his instructions and the game plan for the day. We stopped in the river for him to give instructions to everyone so even the least experienced of us was prepared for the day. We tried a few locations and moved as necessary to find fish, which we did! Numerous keeper reds and a couple nice overs, plenty of trout, and even a black drum, a pompano, and a Spanish mackerel. Great guide and a fantastic day on the water!" - Ellen
"Captain Dave is a true professional. Great equipment, knowledgeable in finding fish in changing weather conditions. Was a little worried about fishing after a cold front, but Captain put us on the fish. Very accommodating and courteous. Very good day and will be booking again" - Duane
"We had such an amazing experience fishing with Captain David Stump. We had along our two boys, 7 and 9, and Captain was so awesome and patient with helping them fish and showing them what to do. It was a windy day and he powered through it with us and made it so much fun! We would recommend Salty Day Fishing!" - Allysa
Let's talk about what's swimming around out there. Crystal River is home to some real beauties, and we're gonna do our best to introduce you to them. Here's the lowdown on our target species:
Snook: These hard-fighting fish are the rockstars of inshore fishing. They're known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps. Snook love to hang around structure, so we'll be working those mangrove edges and dock pilings. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, from spring through fall. Catching a big snook is like hooking into a freight train - it'll test your skills and your gear!
Grey Snapper: Don't let their size fool you; these guys punch above their weight class. Grey snappers, also known as mangrove snappers, are smart and quick. They're around all year, but the bite really heats up in the summer. We'll be dropping baits near rocky bottom areas and reefs. When you hook one, get ready for a tug-of-war - they'll try to run you into the structure, so you've gotta be quick on the reel!
Sea Trout: The spotted seatrout is a Crystal River staple. These fish are a blast to catch on light tackle and are known for their speckled bodies and delicate flavor. We'll be targeting them over grass flats, using both artificial lures and live bait. The cool thing about trout is they often school up, so when you catch one, there's a good chance there are more nearby. They're most active in the cooler months, making them a perfect target when other species might be slowing down.
Redfish: Ah, the redfish - also known as red drum. These copper-colored beauties are one of the most popular inshore species in Florida. They're known for their distinctive spot near the tail and their hard-pulling fights. We'll be looking for them tailing in shallow water or cruising the flats. Redfish can be caught year-round, but the fall is prime time when they school up in big numbers. Hooking into a bull red is like battling a bulldozer - it's an experience you won't forget!
Alright, folks, let's wrap this up. An 8-hour trip with Capt. David on Crystal River is more than just a fishing charter - it's a full-on Florida adventure. You're getting top-notch fishing action, expert guidance, and even a freshly grilled lunch if the fish cooperate. It's the kind of day that'll have you grinning from ear to ear and telling fish stories for weeks to come.
Whether you're a local looking for a new hotspot or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Crystal River fishing, this trip's got you covered. Capt. David's knowledge, combined with the area's rich fishing grounds, means you're in for a day of non-stop action and memories that'll last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, the sun's shining, and Capt. David's boat is ready to roll. Book your spot now and get ready for a seriously salty day on the water. Trust me, your future self will thank you!
March 22, 2025
Captain Dave is a true professional. Great equipment, knowledgeable in finding fish in changing weather conditions. Was a little worried about fishing after a cold front, but Captain put us on the fish. Very accommodating and courteous. Very good day and will be booking again
February 8, 2025
We had a salty day with Capt. Dave! He put in the extra effort to make sure we had a great day fishing in challenging conditions. It was a windy day that kept us inshore. We caught Several Speckled Trout, Mackerel, a Flounder and a Black Drum. Fought a few Bonnet head sharks and ladyfish, fun to fight but not suitable for the menu. Also saw a variety of wildlife to include Manatees, Pelicans, Cormorants and an Eagle! Captain provided everything we needed and will definitely look him up for our next day out. Thanks again Captain.
June 2, 2023
We had such an amazing experience fishing with Captain David Stump. We had along our two boys, 7 and 9, and Captain was so awesome and patient with helping them fish and showing them what to do. It was a windy day and he powered through it with us and made it so much fun! We would recommend Salty Day Fishing!
May 10, 2024
Captain David did it again! He definitely knows the spots and makes sure you have a great fishing experience. Great boat, best dog and happy customers!
October 4, 2024
When in Crystal River, we will always fish with Captain Dave! Great captain and a man of integrity!
January 10, 2025
Great day on the water in Crystal River with Captain David Stump and Salty Day Charters! Lots of fish and easy on and off the boat. Can’t wait to go again!
September 2, 2023
Grey snapper, or mangrove snapper, are sneaky little devils that love structure. You'll find them around docks, reefs, and - you guessed it - mangroves. They usually run 10-14 inches but can get up to 20 pounds out deep. These guys are masters of the hit-and-run. They'll grab your bait and bolt for cover faster than you can blink. Light tackle and quick reflexes are key. Try a live shrimp on a small hook with just enough weight to get down. Let it sink near some structure and hold on. Snappers are great eating fish, with sweet white meat. Summer is prime time when they move inshore to spawn. One local tip: fish the falling tide at night around lighted docks. The lights attract bait, and the snapper follow. Just be ready for a tug-of-war when you hook up!
Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a Crystal River staple. These silvery, spotted beauties cruise our grass flats and channels year-round. Most run 14-20 inches, but gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. They're ambush predators, so look for them around depth changes, points, and anywhere bait gathers. Spring and fall are fantastic as the water temperatures are just right. Trout put up a good scrap and those big ones really know how to shake a hook. Soft plastics under a popping cork is a local favorite. The commotion draws them in, then they nail the lure as it drops. For a real thrill, try topwater lures at first light. There's nothing like seeing a big trout blast your lure off the surface! One last tip: when you find trout, work the area thoroughly. Where there's one, there's usually more. These guys taste great too, so keep a few for dinner if you'd like.
Redfish are a real favorite around here. These guys love shallow water, often hanging out in just 1-4 feet deep around oyster beds, grass flats, and mangroves. You can spot 'em by their reddish backs and that distinctive black spot near the tail. Most run 20-30 inches, but they can get much bigger offshore. Fall is prime time for redfish as they school up to spawn. They put up a great fight and are delicious on the plate too. Topwater lures are a blast - nothing beats seeing a big red explode on your bait. If they're being picky, try a soft plastic on a jighead or some live shrimp. One local trick: On sunny days, look for their tails sticking up out of the water as they root around for crabs in the shallows. Sneak up quietly and make a precise cast - it's sight fishing at its finest. Just be ready when they take off like a freight train!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 48
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
Great day on the water! Dave was ready when we arrived. He was very through with his instructions and the game plan for the day. We stopped in the river for him to give instructions to everyone so even the least experienced of us was prepared for the day. We tried a few locations and moved as necessary to find fish, which we did! Numerous keeper reds and a couple nice overs, plenty of trout, and even a black drum, a pompano, and a Spanish mackerel. Great guide and a fantastic day on the water!