The fishing business has been booming, buoyed by locals’ pinned up desire to get out and enjoy some fun in the sun. With that mind, we decided to do a deep dive into the well-established fishing charter in Jacksonville, All Tackle Fishing Charters, which first set sail in 2009.

Owner and Captain, Alton Robey, is a United States Coast Guard-licensed Captain and a Jacksonville native, with 16 years of experience fishing and guiding in the St. Johns River and the surrounding waters.

In talking with Captain Robey, we learned more about why he decided to start All Tackle Fishing Charters. “I grew up fishing here, and I love sharing my knowledge of both fishing, as well as local wildlife. And I love the experience of fishing with other people,” Captain Robey says.

Though the business is not for everyone. Many people enjoy the idea of fishing but not everyone could handle being a fishing guide, day in and day out. It takes a special blend of skill and passion to discover fulfillment in the charter industry. 

“They always say ‘if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life’. I love being on the water and catching fish. Seeing my clients smiling as they catch their first fish or a bucket list fish…seeing people enjoy themselves on the water the way I do, it makes me very happy.”

Captain Robey guarantees a good time on the water for all of his clients. He offers offshore charters, a combination of inshore and coastal fishing and fishing in the St. Johns River. When discussing a typical fishing experience for new clients, Captain Robey says, “I welcome people onto the boat and acclimatize them to the boat and the safety features. I strive to provide a unique experience, from understanding the tides and the weather, to choosing bait and tackle, to recognizing local wildlife. [Then], we go for a boat ride and hopefully catch some fish.”

On inshore fishing trips, you can typically catch a multitude of species, including redfish, trout, flounder, drum and sheepshead. On coastal and offshore trips, you are more likely to catch cobia, snapper, grouper, tripletail, king mackerel, tarpon and several other species in the area.

If you are interested in booking a trip with All Tackle Fishing Charters, a 4-hour fishing trip inshore is $500. A full day of guided deep sea fishing is $1,500. Trips offer an all-inclusive fishing experience, including fish cleaning and packaging of prized catches. Clients only have to bring their choice of food and drink onto the boat. 

Aside from a great fishing experience, Captain Robey brings a welcoming and positive attitude for clients. 

“I look forward to meeting all of my new customers as well as welcoming back regular customers for another amazing adventure on the water.”

All Tackle Fishing Charters: 1948 Raley Creek Dr. W., Jacksonville, FL; alltacklecharters.com // @altonrobey
____________________________________________________________________________

Here’s a round down of additional fishing charters in the greater Jacksonville area:

Set Em Up Fishing Charters is typically $600 for a 4-hour trip. They also offer bird watching, eco-tours, and sunset cruises on both a 28-inch Pair Custom boat and a 16-inch Hewes Bayfisher. Set Em Up Fishing Charters: Ocean Street 4850, Jacksonville, FL; fb.com/setemupfishingcharters // @set_em_up_fishing_charters

Fish Hunter Charters has been around for a long time and has a very knowledgeable, seasoned captain. Captain Steve Mullen not only has his charter business, but he also formed the Police Athletic League Fishing Club, teaching 100+ children from underserved environments how to fish. Fish Hunter Charters is a great way to enjoy the St. John’s River or the Atlantic Ocean. Fish Hunter Charters (Mike Scanlan Public Boat Ramp): 4870 Ocean St. Jacksonville, FL; fishhunterllc.com // @fishhunter

Sweet Lips Fishing Charters is a one-stop shop for offshore fishing. Captain Christopher Hazlett will guide his fishing fans on a powerful 25-inch SeaCat catamaran. The boat features a wide 9’6’’ beam and plenty of space for up to 6 anglers. Sweet Lips Fishing Charters: Ocean St. Jacksonville, FL fb.com/sweetlipsfishingcharters // @sweetlipsfishingcharters 

Providing offshore, inshore, and deep sea fishing, Team Buck Rogers Charters is a great option for military or first responders, as the captain was a former military Lieutenant and offers a discount to show his appreciation. Having been around since 2006, there are several captains and boats available for appointments, who are all experienced and familiar with the Jacksonville waters. Team Buck Rogers Charters: 4870 Ocean St. Jacksonville, FL: teambuckrogers.square.site // @teambuckrogers3

Whether your goal is simply to get out on the water or fish with some experienced people who can show you the ropes, there are many knowledgeable guides in Jacksonville. It is a great chance to spend a day with family or friends while familiarizing yourself with the Jacksonville area. Consider any of these local fishing charters, if you’re looking for a great way to enjoy the St. Johns River or the Atlantic Ocean.