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HookNGig Outfitters Fishing Charter in St Augustine
Night Flounder Gigging Charter in St Augustine
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St Augustine's shallow inshore waters provide excellent habitat for flounder and other coastal species. Night fishing with lights creates unique opportunities to spot fish that are typically hidden during daylight hours. - Flounder lie flat against sandy bottoms and become visible under bright lights. - Sheepshead and other species are attracted to illuminated areas where small baitfish gather. - Calm evening conditions make fish easier to approach and target.
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 Friday August offers one of St Augustine's most distinctive fishing experiences with night flounder gigging charters. These 4 to 6 hour guided trips take place after sunset in shallow coastal waters, where bright lights illuminate the sandy bottom to spot flounder, sheepshead, and other inshore species. Using a 16-foot aluminum skiff, anglers drift quietly across the flats while learning this interactive hands-on fishing technique. The calm evening waters and experienced local guidance make this trip perfect for families, beginners, and seasoned anglers looking for something completely different from traditional daytime fishing charters.
Flounder Gigging Charter with Captain John – Rates & Booking
Captain John Riddling of Hook-N-Gig Outfitters on Friday August runs these specialized night fishing charters from 4 to 6 hours, departing after sunset when conditions are optimal for spotting fish. The shallow water experience includes all gigging equipment, high-powered lights, and expert instruction on this unique fishing technique. As a licensed guide with extensive local knowledge of St Augustine's inshore waters, Captain John positions the boat over productive flats where flounder and other species feed in the evening hours. Trips accommodate small groups for a personalized experience, with gear included and safety equipment provided. Book online to secure your spot for this one-of-a-kind Florida fishing adventure.
Highlights of Flounder Gigging Trips In St Augustine | 4 To 6 Hour Charter
This nighttime fishing experience stands apart from traditional charters by combining skill, stealth, and excitement as you search for fish using bright underwater lights. The 16-foot aluminum skiff allows access to shallow flats where larger boats cannot venture, putting you directly over prime flounder habitat. St Augustine's protected waters provide ideal conditions for this technique, with calm surfaces that make spotting fish easier and safer navigation in low-light conditions.
The interactive nature of flounder gigging appeals to all skill levels—beginners learn quickly with hands-on instruction while experienced anglers appreciate the challenge and precision required. Beyond flounder, these trips often produce sheepshead, rays, and other coastal species that become active after dark, making each outing unpredictable and rewarding.
Local Tips & Conditions
St Augustine's shallow inshore waters are perfectly suited for night gigging, with sandy flats and grass beds that hold flounder throughout the year. Evening trips take advantage of calmer winds and cooler temperatures that make both fish and anglers more comfortable. The protected nature of these waters means trips can run even when offshore conditions are rough, providing a reliable fishing option regardless of weather patterns.
Tidal movement plays a crucial role in success, as moving water brings baitfish into the shallows and activates feeding behavior. Captain John times departures to coincide with optimal tide phases, typically starting 2-3 hours after sunset when fish are most active. The combination of artificial lighting and natural moonlight creates ideal visibility for this specialized technique, while the quiet approach of the shallow-draft skiff avoids spooking fish in the clear water.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
The 16-foot aluminum skiff comfortably accommodates small groups while providing the shallow draft necessary for accessing prime gigging locations. All specialized equipment is included—high-powered LED lights, gigs, and safety gear—along with expert instruction on proper technique and fish identification. Trips typically start from Vilano Boat Ramp with easy parking and facilities available.
Departure times vary with sunset throughout the year, generally beginning 30-60 minutes after dark when conditions are optimal. The charter includes navigation to multiple productive flats, hands-on gigging instruction, and fish cleaning services. Dress in layers for changing evening temperatures and bring a cooler for your catch—this unique St Augustine fishing experience creates lasting memories and often produces excellent table fare.
