<p><strong><u>Since 1996 Capt. Dave's Sport Fishing</u></strong> has been a full-time fishing guide. From offshore 30 miles to the St. Johns river. For over 27 years he's had boats from 17 to 26'. Dealer Sponsored boats for a few years, to even running a 23', a 21' and a 17' center console all at the same time, in the late 1990's. But his real love was fishing the Mayport Jetties, where the St. Johns river meets the Atlantic Ocean. He had his 26 footer built just for that area. Because it's very big water. And the inlet can be rougher than it is 20 miles offshore, so he wanted a boat that could handle it 365, and it did for 20 years. But in November of 2024, he sold that boat and had a custom inshore, shallow draft 20 foot side console built in Louisiana. Because he wanted to concentrate on fishing calmer more tranquil creeks and bayous. With the ability to traverse the shallow marsh up in the river, for all the same species, just in a different environment.</p><p><br></p><p>Instead of the boat filled with 4 persons plus him, which seemed more like ''people management'' many days, he set the passenger level of the new boat at 2 persons. For versatility, and going shallow, and more of a <strong><em>''one on one''</em></strong> experience for his customers. Just because we're fishing in saltwater, doesn't mean its a group affair. Most bass boats have two fisherman. Most Florida ''keys' flats boats heading off for Permit and Bonefish, have just two Anglers.</p><p><br></p><p>May 2025 is when the new boat was completed. And he loves it. We can still fish the same areas such as the St. Johns River channel edges for trophy sized Redfish in the fall or the Black Drum at the inlet in January. But we have the opportunity to now tuck into the calm shallow marsh when the wind blows and be virtually un-effected by it in March, and catch Speckled Trout and keeper sized Redfish</p>

DID NOT FISH THE MARSH CREEKS....''they are filled with BAIT''
THAT WOULD SEEM LIKE A GOOD THING, HUH?
WELL, IT CERTAINTLY HASN'T BEEN.  THE ACTION VIA REDFISH, AND EVEN JUST ''action'' SPECIES, LIKE SUMMER TIME JACKS, AND LADYFISH HAVE BEEN LACKING IN THE SHALLOWS. AND BELIEVE ME, I'VE BEEN ULTRA SHALLOW:

YOUTUBE VIDEO LINK:  https://youtu.be/gEH_9R7lkcg?si=INVjfqCO77wtn5dr

SO TODAY I STAYED IN THE RIVER, AND FISHED THE ''MAIN-STAY'' TECHNIQUE THAT IF THIS DOESN'T PRODUCE, NOT MUCH ELSE WILL, AND THAT WAS ''FLOAT-RIG'' FISHING ROCKS & DOCKS IN THE ST. JOHNS RIVER.
I'M USUALLY, ANYMORE FED UP WITH THE RIVER, BECAUSE OF THE HUGE CURRENT, BOAT TRAFFIC, TUG BOATS, SHIPS, CONE-HEADS, AND AMOUNT OF CONSTANT WAKES. BUT TODAY, IT WAS NOT BAD AT ALL. I WAS SURPRISED.  MANY SPOTS, WERE COMFORTABLE TO ''FLOAT-RIG'' FISH, WITH THE 4 DOZEN LIVE SHRIMP, I BROUGHT ALONG.  I WAS FEELING ''SPENDY'', I GUESS. BECAUSE LURE FISHING WASN'T PART OF THE PLAN AT ALL.

NO THIS WASN'T A CHARTER TRIP WITH KIDS.....plenty o that is coming soon.  Just had fishing buddy Nick aboard. AND HE HOOKED UP A GOOD SIZED TROUT, BUT LOST IT AT BOAT SIDE WITHIN THE FIRST 10 MINUTES OF FLOATS IN THE WATER.   YES, SPECKLED SEA TROUT, my favorite fish of all time!  WHICH HAVE BEEN REALLY LACKING IN THE CREEKS, FOR ME.

THE NEW TROUT LIMITS REALLY SUCK. FLORIDA DOESN'T WANT YOU TO BE A FISH EATER IN N.E. FLORIDA.  BECAUSE THE 3 TROUT LIMIT, BETWEEN 15-19 INCHES, IS MY BIGGEST COMPLAINT.  I LIKE ''''''TROPHIES'''''''.  A 16" TROUT, DOES NOT EXCITE ME.  BUT A 20'' AND LARGER DOES....hopefully 5 pounds and larger!!!
TODAY, I HAD A 22-23'' 4 POUNDER. AND THATS WHAT I'M FISHING FOR, PERSONALLY. OR A 27'' REDFISH, OR A 2-4 POUND FLOUNDER.  BUT WE HAD NO REDFISH TODAY.  I MAY HAVE HOOKED A FEW, BUT I'M JUST GUESSING, BECAUSE WHATEVER ATE MY LIVE SHRIMP, BECAME A CASUALTY TO THE HEAVY STRUCTURE I WAS FISHING.  I BASICALLY, GOT MY BUTT HANDED TO ME, ON A PLATTER!  

WE DID CATCH FLOUNDER. BUT THET WERE BARELY KEEPERS AT 14 INCHES.  OF COURSE WE HAD PLENTY OF LADYFISH, WHICH ISN'T A BAD THING. SINCE TROUT - highly sought after, AND LADYFISH, FREQUENT THE SAME AREAS IN THE HOT MONTHS.  AND NICK CAUGHT A 5 POUND JAK CREVALLE ON HIS LIGHT TACKLE, FISHING A FLOAT RIG A BIT DEEPER, OFF A ROCK PILE.

I KEPT 4 TROUT, WE LOST 2, AND RELEASED THE LARGEST. AT THE 22-23 INCHES AND 4 POUNDS.

NO VIDEO TODAY. JUST PHOTOS. you can find my recent fishing reports, and happenings on my INSTA-FACE PAGE AT:    https://www.instagram.com/captdavessportfishing/

ALSO INCLUDED SOME OTHER TRIP PHOTOS FROM THIS MONTH.

Speckled trout caught during fishing tour in Jacksonville FL

Angler holding caught Crevalle Jack fish on fishing charter boat in Jacksonville FL waters

Speckled trout catch from Jacksonville FL fishing charter with fishing rod and boat dock visible

Crevalle jack caught during fishing charter in Jacksonville FL

Hardhead sea catfish caught during fishing tour in Jacksonville FL

Southern flounder caught on fishing charter in Jacksonville FL

Speckled trout catch on fishing charter in Jacksonville FL waters

Speckled trout catch from Jacksonville FL fishing tour

''OUT OF THE CREEKS''

EPSG:4269

Speckled trout catch from Jacksonville FL fishing charter

Speckled trout catch displayed on fishing charter boat in Jacksonville FL waters

Redfish caught on fishing charter in Jacksonville FL

Successful fishing catch showing Summer Flounder and Redfish on boat in Jacksonville FL

Southern flounder caught during fishing charter in Jacksonville FL

Speckled trout caught during fishing charter in Jacksonville FL

Southern flounder caught during fishing tour in Jacksonville FL

Jacksonville fishing done right — 28 year veteran Guide

<p>Discover the best fishing spots in Jacksonville with Capt. Dave’s Sportfishing! Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the water or an exciting adventure, book your trip today and make unforgettable memories!</p>

<p>With over 25 years of experience, Capt. Dave’s Sportfishing offers expertise in inshore, backcountry, and marsh fishing out of Jacksonville's Mayport area along the St. Johns river, not far from the inlet where the river meets the Atlantis Ocean. Departing from the <strong><u>Mayport public boat ramp, at 4870 Ocean St. Jacksonville Florida. </u></strong></p><p><br></p><p>Specializing in calm water fishing, he knows the local waters intimately, ensuring a instructional fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're targeting redfish, trout, he has the knowledge and equipment to help you pursue a trophy or just action on the line. His charter fishing trips are designed for both beginners and seasoned anglers, <strong><u>offering charters up to 6 hours, fishing the tide</u></strong>. The tides dictate your day. With a high and low tide every six hours. <em>Only have 4 or 5 hrs. available?</em> Just say the word, Capt. Dave will pack in as much with the time you have.</p><p><br></p><p>His commitment to providing an enjoyable and successful experience on the water is backed by years of navigating Jacksonville’s waterways, from the St. Johns River to the scenic marshes. He knows all the local areas, inside &amp; out.. And has also been a Towboat/US and SeaTow Captain during his career as a USCG Licensed Captain.</p><p><br></p><p>So whether you’re looking for an exciting day of sport fishing, a relaxing outing, or an affordable private charter, we tailor each trip to your needs, ensuring you have the best time possible on the water.</p>

JACKSONVILLE FISHING

Find answers to the most common questions about Jacksonville fishing charters with Capt. Dave’s Sport Fishing, including trip options, pricing, what’s included, and what to expect for a smooth and stress-free experience.

<p>Capt. Dave is a resident of Jacksonville, FL. With more than two decades of experience on the St. Johns River and the surrounding coastal waters</p><p><br></p><p>He has spent much of his life exploring the saltmarshes, inlets, and backwaters that define the region’s rich ecosystem. His knowledge isn’t limited to catching fish—it extends to teaching anglers how to read the water, adapt to changing conditions, and develop confidence on the water. From first-time visitors to seasoned locals, he brings patience and encouragement to every trip, ensuring that each guest leaves with new skills and great memories.</p><p><br></p><p>Over the years, Capt. Dave has guided anglers to countless catches, from Redfish and Speckled Trout to Black Drum and Sheepshead. <strong>He is a member of the 10 pound Speckle Trout Club</strong>, catching his first ''holy grail' sized Trout April 29th of 2009.  This isn't really a club, but rather people that have gained respect in N. E. Florida, who have caught one. <strong><u>It's the benchmark serious Trout anglers strive for. </u></strong> And by the way, before hooking his 10 pounder, the two Trout just minutes prior were a 3 &amp; 5 pounder.  His reputation is a serious self proclaimed Trout Snob, and loves taking his customers and having them catch a true <em>''Gator Trout'' </em>as they are known as in N.E. Florida. Capt. Dave's professionalism and local knowledge has led to many guests, to catching their own 'personal largest fish'' of their life. </p><p><br></p><h2><strong>The Jettywolf ll</strong></h2><p>The Jettywolf was the name of his old boat he ran from Oct. 2005 to November of 2024, before selling it. And having a new Jettywolf boat built. Why change the name, he thought.  The new boat that carries guests on Capt. Dave’s Sport Fishing trips is a customized 20-foot <strong>HANKO boat works</strong> built in Berwick Louisiana. Designed to be simple, easy to maintain and economical.  With both performance and super fishability in mind. Powered by a reliable Suzuki 90-horsepower engine, it cruises smoothly at speeds up to 40 mph, making travel into the shallows easy, with lightness, stability and super toughness., Being all welded aluminum 5/16ths inch plate. The Jettywolf ll , is equipped with all the essentials anglers expect, including a bait tank, soft cooler, a USCG safety equipment, GPS, fish finder, VHF radio, jack plate to raise the motor, 36v trolling motor and bow and stern casting platforms. With space for up to two guests, it provides a platform tougher than a flats boat, and goes in inches of water a bay boat can't.  All while still giving capabilities to explore the St. Johns River, the marshes, or venturing to the inlet. The Jettywolf is safe, stable and reliable.</p>

Departing from: Mayport Boat Ramp (Michael Scanlan Park) 4870 Ocean St. Jacksonville, Fl. 32233

Where we meet

Experienced Jacksonville Fishing Guide with Local Knowledge and a Passion for Light tackle Fishing 

Our Latest News & Updates

Capt. Dave

Contact Us: (904) 642-9546

<p><br></p><p><br></p><h3><strong><u>Common Questions</u></strong></h3><p><br></p><h3><strong style="color: rgb(230, 0, 0);"><u>Contact Capt. Dave&nbsp;at: </u>904-642-9546 (no texts please<u>)</u>&nbsp;for&nbsp;details.</strong></h3><p><br></p><h3><strong>What types of trips does Capt. Dave offer in Jacksonville?</strong></h3><h3>Capt. Dave provides&nbsp;up to a 6 hour fishing day, starting in the mornings. Calm waters, in the salt marsh, in the river and sometimes&nbsp;at the inlet.&nbsp;Capt. Dave's&nbsp;inshore Jacksonville charters targets&nbsp;Redfish,&nbsp;Sea Trout,&nbsp;Black Drum, and flounder, plus many other&nbsp;species. He also offers&nbsp;<u>non-fishing </u>Dolphin/Wildlife Tours&nbsp;for 2, and&nbsp;a 2- hour&nbsp;Kid's&nbsp;fishing&nbsp;trips.</h3><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>What is included in my&nbsp;fishing&nbsp;charter?</strong></h3><h3>All fishing trips include tackle, baits,&nbsp;ice, coolers, USCG safety equipment&nbsp;and licenses.&nbsp;You may bring&nbsp;drinks,&nbsp;and snacks, in a plastic bag to go in my cooler. <em><u>NO, carry on coolers, or large bags.</u></em>&nbsp;Space is limited on boats.</h3><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>What should I bring for my fishing trip?</strong></h3><h3>Guests should bring drinks (no glass), sunglasses, hats, and&nbsp;wear&nbsp;soft-soled&nbsp;''closed toe''&nbsp;shoes. <em>A plastic grocery bag with snacks and drinks into go in my cooler</em>. Larger bags &amp; coolers should be left behind.&nbsp;</h3><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>Do I need fishing experience&nbsp;on&nbsp;a charter?</strong></h3><h3>Fishing experience is very helpful.&nbsp;The more fishing and <em>"tackle handling" </em>experience you have the better. No different than Golfing.&nbsp;</h3><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>What types of fish can I catch in Jacksonville?</strong></h3><h3>Depending on the season, anglers will target&nbsp;Redfish,&nbsp;Seatrout,&nbsp;Flounder,&nbsp;Black&nbsp;Drum,&nbsp;Sheepshead, and&nbsp;more. Capt. Dave knows the local spots and techniques to help guests catch fish year-round.</h3><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>When is the best time of year for fishing in Jacksonville?</strong></h3><h3>Inshore&nbsp;Fishing is&nbsp;most&nbsp;productive&nbsp;October through May.&nbsp;Changing of the seasons&nbsp;<em>(Yes, Florida has seasons)&nbsp;</em>such as Oct. Nov. and April &amp; May can be truly&nbsp;outstanding.</h3><h3><br></h3><h3><strong>Can kids join a fishing charter?</strong></h3><h3>Kids over 10 yrs old can do a 4-6 hour charter. Capt. Dave specializes in&nbsp;2 hour Kids&nbsp;fishing trips&nbsp;in&nbsp;Jacksonville FL.&nbsp;<strong style="color: rgb(230, 0, 0);"><u>Children&nbsp;under 10 years old, do a&nbsp;2 hour&nbsp;Kids Trip</u></strong><u>:</u>&nbsp;2 Kids under 10&nbsp;and one adult or 2 adults and one child&nbsp;under 10 years old.</h3><p><br></p><h3><strong>How many people can join a trip with Capt. Dave?</strong></h3><h3>The Jettywolf ll, accommodates up to 2 guests for fishing charters, ensuring plenty of room to fish.&nbsp;Flexibility&nbsp;is a major key to success when&nbsp;inshore light tackle fishing.&nbsp;<em>"Inshore fishing isn't a large group affair anyhow."&nbsp;</em></h3><p><br></p><h3><strong>Do I get to keep the fish I catch?</strong></h3><h3>Yes, guests may keep fish within Florida’s size and bag limits. Capt. Dave will explain the regulations and can clean your catch at the end of the trip on a gratuity basis.&nbsp;Ask Capt. Dave about the local <em>(around the corner) </em>restaurant that will cook up your catch for you after your big day.&nbsp;</h3>

Mayport Basin - Duval, FL Fishing Report on 20th May, 2026

AUTHOR

Dave Sipler

NOTES

''OUT OF THE CREEKS''

Mayport Basin - Duval, FL

Capt. Dave’s Sport Fishing Available Trips

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