Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready for a fishing adventure that'll have you hooked? Join us at Tripletail Charters for a half-day trip that's all about sight fishing for one of Apalachicola's most unique catches. We're talking about the elusive tripletail, a fish that'll test your skills and fill your cooler. From March to October, we're out on these waters, showing folks just like you why Apalachicola Bay is a top-rated fishing spot. So grab your hat and let's hit the flats for four hours of non-stop action!
Picture this: You're gliding across Apalachicola Bay, the sun's just coming up, and your eyes are peeled for those telltale shadows. That's right, we're sight fishing for tripletail, and let me tell you, it's a rush like no other. Whether you're handy with a fly rod or prefer spinning gear, we've got you covered. This trip is perfect for two anglers, so bring your fishing buddy and get ready for some friendly competition. At $500 for the half-day, it's a steal for the memories you'll make. Our seasoned guides know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're itching to share their local knowledge with you.
Alright, let's talk strategy. Sight fishing for tripletail is like playing hide and seek with a master of disguise. These odd-looking fish love to hang out near floating debris, channel markers, or anything that casts a shadow. We'll be cruising the flats, keeping our eyes peeled for that distinctive silhouette. When we spot one, it's game on! You'll need to make a precise cast – too close and you'll spook 'em, too far and they won't bite. It's all about finesse and timing. We'll show you how to work your lure or fly just right to entice that tripletail into striking. And when they do, hold on tight because these guys put up one heck of a fight!
"Captain Mark was great to go fishing with.He is very good with time management on the water.We got to the " spots" quickly and fished.We caught and tagged many tripletails and our keepers tasted delicious!!" - Rick
"Could not ask for a more friendly and knowledgeable Charter Captain than Mark Butler. To say I had a great time is an understatement. Highly recommend Tripletail Charters. You will not be disappointed." - David
Let's talk about our star player – the tripletail. These quirky fish are like the chameleons of the sea, able to change their coloration to blend in with their surroundings. They get their name from their oversized dorsal and anal fins, which make them look like they've got three tails when they're young. Tripletail can grow up to 30 pounds, but most of what we catch are in the 5-15 pound range – perfect for a delicious dinner. These fish are ambush predators, often floating on their sides near the surface, mimicking floating debris. This behavior makes them perfect for sight fishing, but don't be fooled – they're quick to dart away if they spot you first. The best time to target tripletail here in Apalachicola is from late spring through early fall when the water warms up and they move into the bay. What makes them so exciting to catch? Well, besides their unique appearance and tasty fillets, tripletail are known for their strong, acrobatic fights. When hooked, they'll make powerful runs and even leap out of the water, giving you a thrill you won't soon forget.
There's something special about fishing the waters around Apalachicola, and it's not just the tripletail. This area is a angler's paradise, with a mix of bay, river, and Gulf fishing all within reach. The pristine waters of Apalachicola Bay are teeming with life, thanks to the nutrient-rich waters flowing down from the Apalachicola River. It's not uncommon to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of birds while we're out chasing tripletail. And let's not forget the oysters – Apalachicola is famous for them, and there's nothing like shucking a few fresh ones right on the boat. But what really keeps folks coming back is the challenge and excitement of sight fishing for tripletail. It's a test of skill, patience, and quick reflexes that'll have you itching to get back out on the water as soon as you dock.
Now, let's talk tackle. For this trip, we've got you covered with top-notch gear, but if you're bringing your own, here's what works best. For spin fishing, a 7-foot medium action rod paired with a 2500-3000 size reel spooled with 10-15 pound braid is perfect. We'll rig up with a fluorocarbon leader and either a live shrimp under a popping cork or a soft plastic jig. Fly anglers, bring your 8-weight with a floating line and some shrimp patterns or Clouser minnows. Don't forget polarized sunglasses – they're absolutely crucial for cutting through the glare and spotting those tripletail. We'll provide life jackets, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer. And of course, don't forget the essentials: sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a light jacket if it's a cooler day. Oh, and bring a camera – you'll want to show off your catch!
While tripletail are our main target, the waters around Apalachicola are home to a variety of other species that might make an appearance during our trip. Keep an eye out for redfish cruising the flats or speckled trout hanging around oyster bars. In the warmer months, you might even spot a tarpon rolling in the distance. And if we venture towards the passes, there's always a chance of hooking into a bull redfish or a feisty jack crevalle. Each of these species offers its own unique challenge and fight, adding an extra layer of excitement to our trip. Who knows? You might just end up with a mixed bag of Apalachicola's finest by the end of our four hours!
Alright, folks, if you're not itching to get out on the water by now, check your pulse! Our Apalachicola Tripletail Charters are booking up fast, especially during peak season. Remember, this is a half-day trip that packs in a full day's worth of excitement. For just $500, you and a buddy can experience some of the best sight fishing the Forgotten Coast has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to test your skills or a newbie eager to learn, we've got you covered. Don't let this chance slip away – those tripletail are out there waiting for you. Give us a call or hop online to book your trip today. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner. See you on the water!
December 23, 2023
Could not ask for a more friendly and knowledgeable Charter Captain than Mark Butler. To say I had a great time is an understatement. Highly recommend Tripletail Charters. You will not be disappointed.
July 12, 2024
Tripletail are an odd but awesome fish to target here in Apalachicola Bay. These flat-bodied oddballs usually run 2-13 pounds but can get up to 40. They're ambush predators that love to float sideways near the surface, mimicking debris. We look for them around weed lines, buoys, and floating structure from March through October. Sight fishing for tripletail is a blast - you've got to spot them, then make a stealthy cast without spooking them. When hooked, they put up a scrappy fight with some acrobatics mixed in. Beyond the fun of catching them, tripletail are prized for their firm, tasty white meat. To improve your odds, I'll show you how to "walk" your bait or fly past the fish without letting it see the line. Shrimp and small crab patterns work great. Just be careful handling them - those gill plates are razor sharp! Overall, tripletail offer a unique challenge that'll test your casting skills and observation. You won't forget landing your first one.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 2
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150
Captain Mark was great to go fishing with.He is very good with time management on the water.We got to the " spots" quickly and fished.We caught and tagged many tripletails and our keepers tasted delicious!!