If you’re considering trying out beach fishing while in Daytona Beach, this Three-Hour Beach Fishing Charter from Fishin’ Girl Surf Fishing Guide offers a straightforward, friendly way to get your toes in the water. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough feedback and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. For those looking for a bite-sized fishing experience that combines learning and fun, this could be a good option.
What I really like about this tour is how accessible it is—no boat necessary, just shore and skill. Plus, Cathy Sanders, the guide, is praised for her deep knowledge, making it a solid pick for beginners or anyone wanting to brush up on surf fishing techniques. On the flip side, since the tour is only three hours and conducted on the beach, it might feel a little rushed for those hoping for a longer, more relaxed day out. This experience is likely best suited for folks who want a quick, educational fishing outing or are curious about surf fishing but don’t want to commit to a full-day trip.
Key Points
- Expert guidance: Cathy Sanders is highly knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
- All equipment included: You won’t need to bring your own gear unless preferred, as bait, tackle, and rods are provided.
- Prime location: Starting at Flagler Beach Fishing Pier offers a classic Florida beach vibe.
- Weather-dependent: The tour requires good weather; cancellations for poor conditions are fully refunded or rescheduled.
- Affordable for the value: At $125 per person, the tour offers a solid chance to learn and fish in a beautiful setting.
- Great reviews: Consistently rated 5 stars, with comments highlighting fun, learning, and successful catches.
This isn’t your typical boat trip; instead, you’ll spend about three hours on the shoreline, casting from the sand and learning how to land fish right off the coast of Northeast Florida. The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am at the Flagler Beach Fishing Pier, a spot that immediately immerses you in a classic fishing scene—waves crashing, seagulls overhead, and the salt air in your lungs.
The guide, Cathy Sanders, is a standout. She’s known for her patience, expertise, and her ability to explain surf fishing in a way that even first-timers can grasp. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated her teaching style—she takes time to answer questions and show proper techniques, from casting to baiting.
The Start: Meeting at the Pier
When you arrive, expect to meet Cathy and get acquainted with the equipment. Sea conditions and weather influence the day’s exact location, but generally, you’ll fish straight from the beach, not from a boat. Cathy provides all necessary gear—rods, bait, and tackle—so you can just focus on the experience.
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The Techniques: Learning and Catching
Cathy’s approach is beginner-friendly. She explains how to spot bait like sand fleas, which are essential for attracting fish, and teaches you how to throw a cast net—something a few reviewers found particularly rewarding. Catching fish like pompano, whiting, and redfish is the goal, but the real value is in the lessons about surf fishing techniques.
One reviewer shared, “Cathy has much knowledge to share. She takes the time to explain and answers questions to where I can understand.” Whether you’re new to fishing or just want to refine your skills, the personalized guidance makes all the difference.
The Catches and the Fun
Multiple reviews highlight how successful and lively the fishing can be, with anglers catching several fish during the trip. One memorable comment was about their last cast producing a hammerhead shark—an exhilarating surprise! While that might be a bit rare, it underscores that surprises can happen when you’re fishing in the wild.
The Setting and Atmosphere
The scenery is as good as it gets—waves, birds, and the sun rising or shining overhead. It’s a true coastal adventure. Many reviews mention the beautiful sunrise and the joy of being on the beach with a rod in hand, which makes for a memorable morning.
Safety and Comfort
Safety is taken seriously, with Cathy certified in both adult and pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED. The tour is fully licensed and insured, so you can relax knowing you’re in good hands. While the tour is suitable for most physically fit adults, you should be prepared for some moderate activity—casting and moving along the beach.
What to Bring
While all gear is provided, you’ll want to bring water, snacks, and perhaps a beach chair if you prefer sitting during the trip. The tour is a quick 3 hours, so packing light is easy and makes for a more comfortable experience.
The Value of the Tour
At $125 per person, this tour offers a nice balance of instruction, fun, and the chance to catch some fish. Considering all gear, bait, and instruction are included, it’s quite a good deal—especially when you think about the personalized attention from Cathy. Several reviews have mentioned how much they learned and how friendly and helpful Cathy was.
The reviews also suggest that the experience is well-organized. Since it’s booked about 38 days in advance on average, it’s a popular choice, and that’s a good sign for quality.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This experience is ideal for beginners or anyone curious about surf fishing. Families with children comfortable with moderate activity might enjoy it, but keep in mind that the physical level is moderate, and some standing or casting is involved. If you love the idea of a quick, engaging outdoor activity with a local expert, this tour fits the bill. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a low-pressure, educational experience without the need for a boat or complicated gear.
Three-Hour Beach Fishing Charter in Northeast Florida
“My review is a bit non-standard since we never had the opportunity to fish with Cathy. My son-in-law and I were scheduled to fish with her on Monda…”
Final Thoughts
This beach fishing charter offers a straightforward, friendly, and educational way to enjoy Florida’s coast. Cathy Sanders appears to be a true pro who genuinely wants her guests to have fun and learn. The combination of beautiful scenery, expert guidance, and the thrill of catching fish makes this a good choice for a morning or early afternoon activity.
While it might not suit someone looking for a long, laid-back day on the water, if you’re after a short, informative, and memorable coastal adventure, this tour fits the bill. It’s a good pick for travelers wanting to try surf fishing with minimal fuss and maximum fun.
Do I need my own fishing license?
Yes, anglers aged 16-64 must have a Florida Saltwater Shoreline Fishing License to participate. The tour itself does not include a license, so plan ahead if you need one.
What is included in the tour?
All surf-fishing equipment, bait, and tackle are provided. You just need to bring your own hydration, snacks, and perhaps a beach chair if you’d like to sit.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Flagler Beach Fishing Pier, located at 105 S 2nd St, Flagler Beach, FL. The tour ends back at the same point.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately three hours, starting at 8:00 am. It’s a compact window, perfect for those with busy schedules or trying it out for the first time.
What will I learn?
Expect to learn surf fishing techniques, how to spot bait like sand fleas, and how to cast a surf rod. Many guests find it to be an educational experience as well as fun.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity involved suggests it’s best for older children or teens comfortable with standing and casting.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Good weather is required, and if conditions are poor, the tour will be canceled and fully refunded or rescheduled at your convenience.
If you’re after a friendly, well-led introduction to surf fishing in Florida, this three-hour charter looks like a worthwhile option. It combines scenic views, expert tips, and the chance to catch some fish—all in just a short morning or early afternoon.
