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Flounder are among the most unique fish in St Augustine waters, perfectly adapted for life on sandy and muddy bottoms. These flatfish undergo an amazing transformation as juveniles, with one eye migrating to join the other on the same side of their head. - Masters of camouflage, changing color and pattern to match their surroundings. - Most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours when they hunt for prey. - Excellent table fare with mild, flaky white meat prized by anglers and chefs alike.
Captain John Riddling of Hook-N-Gig Outfitters on Sunday May offers one of Florida's most distinctive inshore fishing experiences with nighttime flounder gigging charters in St Augustine. This 4-6 hour guided trip takes you across shallow flats after sunset, using bright lights and specialized gigs to target flounder, sheepshead, and other coastal species. Operating from a 16-foot aluminum skiff, you'll drift quietly through calm waters while scanning the sandy bottom for these well-camouflaged flatfish. Perfect for families and anglers of all skill levels, this hands-on fishing style combines stealth, precision, and excitement as you stalk your targets in illuminated shallows. The warmer May weather and calmer seas create ideal conditions for spotting fish, making this an unforgettable night fishing adventure in the historic waters around St Augustine.
Captain John Riddling of Hook-N-Gig Outfitters on Sunday May guides these specialized 4-6 hour night fishing charters starting at sunset from Vilano Boat Ramp. Each trip accommodates small groups aboard a 16-foot aluminum skiff equipped with high-intensity lights and quality gigging gear. Rates include all equipment, instruction, and guidance from an experienced local captain who knows these St Augustine flats intimately. Book online or call to secure your spot—these unique night fishing experiences fill quickly during prime flounder season.
This shallow water night fishing experience stands apart from traditional angling methods. You'll use bright lights to illuminate the sandy bottom while drifting silently across the flats, searching for the distinctive outline of flounder and other species. The interactive nature of gigging requires focus and precision as you stalk these well-camouflaged fish in their natural habitat.
May offers prime conditions with warmer water temperatures and calmer seas, creating excellent visibility for spotting fish. The 16-foot aluminum skiff provides the perfect platform for this specialized fishing style, allowing quiet movement across shallow areas where flounder feed after dark.
St Augustine's inshore waters provide ideal habitat for flounder gigging, with extensive shallow flats and sandy bottom structure. The best action typically occurs during the first few hours after sunset when flounder become more active and easier to spot against the illuminated bottom. Calm weather conditions are essential for this fishing style, as wind and waves can reduce visibility and make accurate gigging more challenging.
Water clarity plays a crucial role in success, and the protected waters around Vilano Beach and the Matanzas Inlet area offer consistently good conditions. Tides affect fish movement and water depth, with moderate tides often providing the best combination of fish activity and manageable water levels for gigging.
Your flounder gigging adventure begins at Vilano Boat Ramp as the sun sets over St Augustine. All specialized equipment is provided, including high-quality gigs, powerful LED lights, and safety gear. The 16-foot aluminum skiff offers stability and maneuverability in shallow water while maintaining the quiet operation essential for this fishing style.
Captain John provides instruction on proper gigging techniques, fish identification, and safety procedures before heading out. The hands-on nature of this fishing method makes it engaging for participants of all experience levels, from first-time giggers to seasoned night fishing enthusiasts.