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.
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.
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.