FERNANDINA BEACH FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Lines Through the Mangroves: Inshore and Backcountry Fishing with Capt. Pat in Fernandina Beach
A concise guide to Gonna Miss Her Charters’ inshore and backcountry trips aboard a 25' Tidewater with Captain Patrick Hemphill, covering species, logistics, and what to pack.
Lines Through the Mangroves: Inshore and Backcountry Fishing with Capt. Pat in Fernandina Beach.
Adventure brief
Lines Through the Mangroves: Inshore and Backcountry Fishing with Capt. Pat in Fernandina Beach
In the tidal labyrinths off Fernandina Beach, Captain Patrick Hemphill leads small-boat excursions that trade pomp for proficiency. With more than three decades on North Florida waters, he puts anglers into the backcountry and inshore flats where Black Drum, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Flounder, Whiting and even Barracuda patrol shallow edges. Trips run from a 25' Tidewater bay boat set up for four anglers, with tackle, bait, a covered license and a cleaned, filleted catch at day’s end.
Embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure with Gonna Miss Her Charters in Fernandina Beach, Florida. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, this private inshore and backcountry charter offers a chance to connect with pristine waters, abundant marine life, and expert guidance. Spend your day navigating through mangroves, flats, and channels, where you'll have the opportunity to catch a variety of local species like redfish, trout, and flounder. The seasoned crew ensures a personalized experience, sharing insights about the area's rich fishing history and tips for success. The calm waters of Fernandina Beach make it a perfect setting for families or groups seeking a relaxing yet exciting outing. As the sun rises or sets, admire the stunning coastal scenery and capture memorable moments. This adventure not only provides excellent fishing prospects but also a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Florida’s Atlantic coast in a peaceful, private setting. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to experience Florida's fishing scene, Gonna Miss Her Charters guarantees a rewarding and authentic day on the water.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic & Key Stops
The trip flows from the marina into a sequence of inshore and backcountry fishing grounds where target species concentrate.
Marina / Boarding
Board the Tidewater at the marina; the vessel is usually ready about 20 minutes before departure and guests who arrive early may board immediately to gain extra time on the water.
Inshore Flats
Shallow flats where anglers target species like Redfish, Spotted Seatrout and Flounder using lures and live bait provided on board.
Backcountry Creeks & Cuts
Protected backcountry channels and mangrove-lined cuts where Black Drum, Whiting and occasional Barracuda concentrate, and where local tactics and bait selection matter most.
Boat space and fishing positions are limited to four anglers; pack for sun and motion on a small boat and follow the captain’s safety briefings.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Local knowledge honed over decades
Captain Patrick Hemphill brings 34 years of experience on North Florida waters, a level of local knowledge that determines where to focus effort for inshore and backcountry species.
A comfortable 25' Tidewater for small groups
The charter runs from a 25’ Tidewater bay boat that accommodates up to four anglers fishing at once, offering a stable, outfitted platform for the flats and creeks.
Tackle, bait and a cleaned catch included
Gear, lures, live bait and fresh water are provided aboard; the charter covers your fishing license and wraps the day by cleaning and filleting your catch.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Expect a hands-on day of short runs into tidal flats and sheltered backcountry cuts, casting for sighted fish and working structure with live bait or lures supplied by the captain. The rhythm is deliberate: boat to spot, set up rods, chase a bite, and repeat—finished with a neat, filleted box of fish to take home.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pack snacks, drinks, sunglasses and anything that will increase personal comfort; the captain provides fishing equipment, lures, live bait and fresh water, and your fishing license is included.
Rod and tackle setup, lures, live bait, fresh water, fishing license coverage, and a cleaned, filleted catch at the end of the trip are all included.
The 25' Tidewater is generally ready about 20 minutes before the scheduled departure; arriving early may allow boarding immediately for extra on-water time.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is gear provided or do I need to bring my own rods and tackle?
All fishing equipment, lures and live bait are provided on the boat by the captain.
Do I need a fishing license?
No—your fishing license is covered by the charter.
How many people can fish on the boat at once?
The vessel accommodates up to four anglers who can fish at the same time.
What species am I most likely to catch?
Expect to target Black Drum, Flounder, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Whiting and Barracuda in the inshore and backcountry waters.
Will my catch be cleaned?
Yes—after the trip your catch will be cleaned and filleted by the captain.
What should I bring for comfort on the trip?
Bring snacks, drinks and sunglasses or any personal items that will make your trip more comfortable.
When should I arrive at the marina?
The captain’s 25' Tidewater is usually ready about 20 minutes before departure; if you get there earlier you may be allowed to hop aboard immediately.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:42:48.393Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.