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Caught a nighttime flounder Inshore in St Augustine
Night Flounder Gigging in St Augustine
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St Augustine's inshore waters offer exceptional night gigging opportunities. Flounder and sheepshead become active after sunset in shallow flats. - Prime season runs spring through early summer. - Clear water conditions essential for spotting fish. - Sandy bottom habitat preferred by target species.
Fishing Charter by Captain John Riddling in December
Meet your Captain John Riddling
- Get Reel Excited In St Augustine Fishing Charters!
Summary
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- to 6-hour guided trip takes place after sunset in shallow waters, where bright lights illuminate the sandy bottom to reveal camouflaged flounder, sheepshead, and other coastal species. Using a 16-foot aluminum skiff, you'll drift quietly across the flats while learning hands-on gigging techniques from an experienced local guide. Perfect for families and anglers of all skill levels, this interactive fishing style combines the thrill of the hunt with the peaceful beauty of night fishing along Florida's historic coast. Book online for an unforgettable after-dark adventure that fills up quickly during prime season.
Flounder Gigging Charter with Captain John Riddling – Rates & Booking
Captain John Riddling of Hook-N-Gig Outfitters on Sunday May runs specialized night flounder gigging trips that showcase one of St Augustine's most unique fishing opportunities. These 4- to 6-hour charters depart after sunset from Vilano Boat Ramp, taking advantage of calm evening conditions and clear water visibility. All gigging equipment, lights, and safety gear are provided, with trips accommodating small groups for a personalized experience. Licensed and experienced in shallow water techniques, Captain John guides you through the art of spotting and gigging flounder in their natural habitat. Book online or call for current rates and availability during peak gigging season.
Highlights of Flounder Gigging Trips In St Augustine | 4 To 6 Hour Charter
This after-dark fishing adventure combines stealth, skill, and excitement as you hunt for flounder across St Augustine's shallow flats. The experience begins at sunset when these flatfish become more active and easier to spot against the sandy bottom. Using high-powered lights mounted on a stable 16-foot aluminum skiff, you'll learn to identify the distinctive outline and camouflaged patterns of flounder, sheepshead, and other coastal species.
The hands-on nature of gigging creates an interactive fishing experience unlike traditional rod and reel methods. Each successful gig requires patience, precision, and quick reflexes, making it equally challenging for beginners and seasoned anglers. The peaceful nighttime setting, combined with the thrill of the hunt, creates lasting memories for families and fishing enthusiasts seeking something different from typical charter trips.
Local Tips & Conditions
St Augustine's shallow inshore waters provide ideal conditions for flounder gigging, especially during warmer months when water clarity improves and fish activity increases. The protected flats around Vilano and the Intracoastal Waterway offer calm conditions perfect for this specialized technique. Evening trips take advantage of minimal boat traffic and settled weather patterns that typically develop after sunset.
Water depth ranges from 2 to 6 feet across the prime gigging areas, with sandy and grass bottom providing the habitat flounder prefer. Tidal movement helps position fish in predictable feeding areas, while the bright lighting system reveals their presence against the contrasting bottom. This fishing style works best during periods of good water clarity, making spring and early summer particularly productive for consistent action.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your flounder gigging adventure begins at Vilano Boat Ramp as daylight fades, with departure times adjusted seasonally for optimal conditions. The 16-foot aluminum skiff provides a stable platform for up to 4 anglers, with all gigging equipment, lights, and safety gear included in your trip. Captain John handles navigation and positioning while teaching proper gigging techniques and fish identification skills throughout the evening.
The charter includes high-quality gigs, powerful LED lighting systems, and a cooler with ice for your catch. Comfortable seating and a quiet trolling motor ensure you can move stealthily across the flats without disturbing the fish. Most trips run 4 to 6 hours depending on conditions and group preferences, with flexible timing to maximize your chances of success during peak feeding periods.
