Cocoa Beach Fishing Report – December 2025 | Fin & Fly Charters

Cocoa Beach Fishing Report – December 2025 | Fin & Fly Charters

December 1, 2025

Cocoa Beach Fishing Report December 2025

December fishing on the Space Coast has produced steady action inshore, nearshore, and offshore. Cooler temperatures and bait movement continue to drive winter patterns in this Cocoa Beach fishing report December.

👉 Charter Pricing


Cocoa Beach Inshore Fishing – Redfish & Trout

Inshore fishing has been consistent across shallow grass flats and oyster bars. Redfish and trout have been feeding well as the sun warms the water.

What’s been working:

  • Cut bait presentations for redfish

  • 1/8 oz jig heads with Gulp paddle tails

  • Slow roll retrieves around potholes and grass edges

Common catches:

  • Redfish

  • Sea Trout

This style of Cocoa Beach inshore fishing rewards patience and light tackle.

👉 Inshore Charters


Cocoa Beach Nearshore Fishing – Sharks & Bull Reds

Nearshore winter trips have been busy. Shark charters are producing steady action, and bull redfish are mixing into the bite around bait pods.

Species we’ve been catching:

  • Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks

  • Spinner Sharks

  • Blacktip Sharks

  • Blacknose Sharks

  • Bull Redfish

The combination of sharks and bull reds makes Cocoa Beach nearshore fishing a great option for anglers seeking consistent action.

👉 Nearshore Charters


Half-Day Deep Sea – Kingfish, Snapper & Cobia

Half-day offshore charters continue to provide a variety of fish. Winter structure has concentrated predators.

Typical half-day catches:

  • Kingfish

  • Lane Snapper

  • Sharks

  • Cobia (occasionally)

  • Red Snapper (catch-and-release)

We occasionally encounter sailfish, though not in big numbers. Overall, Cocoa Beach offshore fishing on half-day trips has been reliable without long travel times.

👉 Half-Day Deep Sea Charters
Regulations: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/


Full-Day Deep Sea – Amberjack, Almaco & Mahi

Full-day offshore trips expand our range to deeper ledges and reefs. These charters add a few winter species not often seen on shorter outings.

Full-day offshore species:

  • Amberjack

  • Almaco Jack

  • Mahi-Mahi (weather dependent)

  • Grouper species (seasonal)

Regulation Notes

  • Gag grouper remains closed and must be released.

  • Other grouper species may be harvested depending on size and season.

This style of Space Coast offshore fishing can deliver trophy-class fish when conditions line up.

👉 Full-Day Offshore Charters
Florida rules: https://myfwc.com/


December Recap – Space Coast Winter Fishing

This Cocoa Beach fishing report December shows a strong winter bite. Inshore anglers found dependable redfish and trout, nearshore shark trips produced multiple species and bull reds, and offshore charters delivered kingfish, snapper, cobia, amberjack, and occasional mahi.

Plan your trip or learn more about our charters:
👉 Check Us Out!
👉 Book Now!

Cocoa Beach fishing report December showing anglers with mahi mahi from a full day deep sea charter at Cape Marina in Port Canaveral
A successful full day deep sea fishing trip off Cocoa Beach with a beautiful haul of mahi mahi

Tripletail Fishing Guide – Best Tips, Tactics & Seasons

Tripletail Fishing Guide – Best Tips, Tactics & Seasons

November 22, 2025

Tripletail Fishing – A Complete Guide for Anglers

Tripletail fishing is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences for anglers along Florida’s Atlantic Coast. Known for their odd shape, strong fights, and excellent table quality, Tripletail are becoming a top target for nearshore and offshore fishermen. This guide will help you understand the best tactics, seasons, and locations for successful tripletail fishing.


Tripletail Behavior – Fishing for Tripletail Successfully

Tripletail often float on their sides near the surface, making fishing for Tripletail a visual and technique-driven form of angling. Their sudden strikes reward patience and accurate casting.


Tripletail Locations – Targeting Tripletail Around Structure

Tripletail commonly hold around floating structure such as:

  • Crab trap buoys

  • Channel markers

  • Driftwood

  • Weed lines

  • Sargassum patches

During spring and summer, they gather near buoys along the Space Coast, offering prime conditions for tripletail action.


Tripletail Seasons – When Tripletail Angling Peaks

Tripletail activity increases as water temperatures rise. Productive periods for tripletail angling include:

  • April–June: Peak nearshore season

  • July–September: Offshore weed lines

  • October–November: Consistent nearshore action

Check regulations here:
👉 https://myfwc.com/


Baits & Gear – Effective Rigs for Catching Tripletail

When catching Tripletail, slow and natural baits are best.

Live Baits

  • Live shrimp

  • Pilchards

  • Small crabs

  • Finger mullet

Artificial Lures

  • Soft plastic shrimp

  • Paddle tails

  • Bucktail jigs


Tripletail Techniques – Buoy Hopping and Sight-Fishing Tips

One of the most effective tripletail techniques is buoy hopping:

  1. Approach structure slowly

  2. Scan the buoy for shadows

  3. Cast beyond the structure

  4. Let the bait drift naturally

  5. Set the hook when the fish commits


Tripletail Taste – Why Anglers Love This Species

Tripletail are prized for their mild, flaky fillets and are excellent grilled, fried, or blackened.

Review harvest rules here:
👉 https://myfwc.com/


Final Thoughts – Tripletail Fishing for Every Angler

Whether near buoys or offshore debris lines, tripletail fishing provides exciting opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Mastering structure, seasons, and presentation will greatly improve your success.

Ready to book a Tripletail charter?
👉 Click Here To Book Us!

Angler holding a large Tripletail caught off Port Canaveral on a nearshore fishing trip

5 Must-Dos for an Outdoor Adventure in Cape Canaveral, Florida

5 Must-Dos for an Outdoor Adventure in Cape Canaveral, Florida

June 8, 2023

Cape Canaveral is a beautiful destination on the Atlantic coastline in Central Florida. It offers endless outdoor adventures including fishing, surfing, kayaking, wildlife tours and more. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves or explore nature, there’s something for everyone in the Cape.

Here are five ways to have the perfect outdoor adventure in Cape Canaveral.

1. Go Deep Sea Fishing with Fin and Fly Charters

You can’t visit Cape Canaveral without trying a deep sea fishing experience. Fin and Fly Charters are the experts in the area, providing an unforgettable day out on the water. From beginner to experienced anglers, we will give you a personalized experience tailored to your level of expertise. Whether you’re after Grouper, Snapper, Tarpon, or other fish, our team will guide you on your domestic fishing adventure and ensure you land the perfect catch.

2. Explore Nature in the Canaveral National Seashore

A trip to the Canaveral National Seashore is a must-visit in Cape Canaveral. Explore over 50,000 acres of pristine coastline, including beaches, scrubby uplands, maritime hammocks and mangrove swamps. Whether you swim, kayak, surf or bird watch in this protected park, you’ll be rewarded with a unique natural habitat, rich with wild life and history.

3. Catch a Wave at the Beach

Cape Canaveral is the perfect location for a surfing holiday with some of the best waves in Florida. Playalinda Beach is the most popular spot in the area and offers a range of waves and beaches for all levels of surfers. You can rent a board for the day and the team at the surf shop will give you all the tips and advice you need for making the most out of your session.

4. Enjoy a Wildlife Cruise

Jump on a wildlife cruise to explore the natural wonders of Cape Canaveral, Florida. Explore nature in all it’s beauty and view local wildlife from the comfort of your cruise. Choose from pre-set itineraries for groups of all sizes.

5. Kayak the Waterways

Whether you prefer a kayak or stand up paddle board, Cape Canaveral is a paradise for all outdoor enthusiasts, full of wildlife, fish, natural landscapes, and more. You can rent kayaks or SUPs to explore this protected habitat for yourself and search for mangrove islands, huge schools of fish, bald eagles, egrets, ospreys and more.

Whether you’re looking to take a deep sea fishing charter, surf the waves or watch some wildlife, Cape Canaveral is the perfect place for a unique outdoor adventure. There’s something for everyone in this beautiful region and both the scenery and the wildlife will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Experience Thrilling Cape Canaveral Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Experience Thrilling Cape Canaveral Deep Sea Fishing Charters

When it comes to deep sea fishing adventures, Cape Canaveral is one of Florida’s premier destination. Nestled along Florida’s picturesque Space Coast, Cape Canaveral offers anglers a perfect blend of natural beauty and exceptional fishing opportunities. If you’re seeking an unforgettable deep sea fishing experience, look no further than Fin and Fly Fishing Charters. With our expertise in the Cape Canaveral area and deep sea fishing gear, you’re in for an incredible journey through the bountiful waters of Cape Canaveral.

Unveiling Cape Canaveral’s Deep Sea Fishing Bounty

Cape Canaveral, renowned for its vibrant marine ecosystem and favorable fishing conditions, attracts anglers from around the world. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean, this coastal gem offers an abundance of fish species, ranging from prized game fish to delicious table fare. The deep sea waters of Cape Canaveral are teeming with trophy-sized catches, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts.

Exploring Cape Canaveral’s Rich Fishing Grounds

Cape Canaveral’s deep sea fishing grounds are home to an impressive array of fish species. Here are just a few of the notable catches you can expect to encounter when you book a Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Cape Canaveral with Fin and Fly Charters.

  1. Sailfish. Known for their acrobatic displays and lightning-fast runs, sailfish are highly sought after by anglers. Cape Canaveral’s waters offer an excellent opportunity to target these magnificent creatures, especially during the winter months when they migrate through the area.
  2. Marlin. The waters off Cape Canaveral are also frequented by majestic marlin. These powerful predators can reach impressive sizes, providing anglers with an adrenaline-pumping battle. Summer is an ideal time to target marlin in these productive waters.
  3. Mahi-Mahi. Recognized for their vibrant colors and delicious meat, mahi-mahi (also known as dorado or dolphinfish) are plentiful in Cape Canaveral’s offshore waters. Anglers can experience the thrill of reeling in these high-energy fish, which often travel in schools.
  4. Grouper and Snapper. For those looking to bring home a tasty dinner, Cape Canaveral’s reefs and wrecks are home to a variety of grouper and snapper species. These bottom-dwelling fish offer an exciting challenge and a delectable reward.

Why Choose Cape Canaveral for Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Cape Canaveral offer a variety of fishing options to suit your preferences. From exhilarating offshore adventures targeting sailfish, marlin, and mahi-mahi to bottom fishing expeditions for grouper and snapper, there’s something for everyone.

At Fin and Fly Fishing Charters, we understand the intricacies of Cape Canaveral’s fishing grounds. Our expert guides possess extensive knowledge of the area’s marine habitats, fish behavior, and prime fishing spots. With our expertise and state-of-the-art boats, you’ll have the best chance of landing that trophy fish you’ve always dreamed of. When it comes to deep sea fishing, having the right equipment is crucial. Guests of Fin and Fly Fishing Charters receive top-of-the-line gear, including high-quality rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Every angler is equipped with the best tools to maximize their fishing experience.

The 7 Best Things to Do in Cape Canaveral, Florida

The 7 Best Things to Do in Cape Canaveral, Florida

May 4, 2023

Cape Canaveral is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in space exploration, beaches, and outdoor activities. Some of the most popular activities for tourists to do in Cape Canaveral, Florida are:

1. Visit Kennedy Space Center: This is the main attraction in Cape Canaveral and a must-visit for space enthusiasts. Here you can see rockets, spacecraft, and exhibits about the history of space exploration.

2. Take a cruise: Cape Canaveral is home to one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, and many tourists opt to take a cruise from here to the Caribbean or other destinations.

3. Visit the beaches: The area around Cape Canaveral has several beautiful beaches, including Cocoa Beach and Playalinda Beach, which are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

4. Explore nature: Cape Canaveral is home to several wildlife refuges, including the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and Canaveral National Seashore, where visitors can see a variety of plants and animals in their natural habitat.

5. Go fishing: The area is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, both inshore and offshore, and there are many fishing charters available for tourists who want to try their luck. We offer several options for fishing right out of the port including deep sea fishing, shark fishing, and inshore fishing charters. Learn more about our Cape Canaveral Fishing Charters.

6. Visit the Brevard Zoo: Located in nearby Melbourne, the Brevard Zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world and offers interactive experiences like kayaking and zip-lining.

7. Play golf: There are several amazing golf courses within a short drive, where visitors can enjoy a round of golf in a beautiful setting.

These are just some of the most popular activities for tourists to do in this great area. There are plenty of other things to see and do in the area, so visitors should plan to spend several days exploring the region.

Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral Fishing Report 2022

Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral Fishing Report 2022

September 30, 2022

Well we survived Hurricane Ian thank god with no damage to any of our boats. It was an interesting storm to say the least with power outages, flooding, and down trees. We really do appreciate our customers that have fished with us already for reaching out to see if we were ok during the whole storm. Crazy how one minute the storm is going to track more to the west and then switch and head east.

Ft Myers is in total destruction from when Ian made landfall and our heart goes out to the charter captains in that area. The storm then proceeded north east to our coast of Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral and sure enough, the eye of the storm went directly over us. Pretty crazy how calm and nice the weather is in the eye of the storm but anyway we’re back to fishing. I always tell our customers that fishing can be an absolute blast inshore right after a hurricane because the water rises so high and the fish move into the areas they can’t always get into.

Redfish, Trout, Tarpon, and Black Drum will be the targeted species in the river right now and the redfish bite has already been a blast but it is fishing and every day is a new day. Our nearshore shark fishing trips this month will start seeing the bull reds move in along the coast of Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral. These redfish are your trophy size redfish that range from 15-30 pounds. There’s always some sharks in the mix as well.

Along the jetties of Port Canaveral will also be targeting snook in our 25ft Keywest bay boat which can be an absolute blast depending on how they are biting. Going deep sea fishing the species could be Kingfish, Redsnapper, Cobia, Grouper, Amberjack, Almaco, Beeliners, Porgies, Triggerfish, and sometimes Mahi Mahi and Sailfish.

We are always honest on how the bite is so if your curious just give us a call and will fill you in and remember all of our fishing charters are family/kid friendly.

Tight Lines Fin & Fly Charters

© 2026 Fin and Fly