The Indian River Lagoon is one of the most beautiful and biologically diverse estuaries in North America. While exploring the beautiful waterway on one of our fishing charter tours, you will be fishing for many different species that call the estuary system home.

The lagoon is protected by barrier islands along the Space Coast of Florida. These unique barriers change the saltiness of the water. The combination of the ocean’s saltwater and the nearby freshwater creates an area of brackish water. While fishing with our crew or relaxing during the fishing charter, you’ll see the beauty of this estuary while reeling in a catch. So, sit back and enjoy the many wonders of The Thousand Islands in Cocoa Beach. Even the most seasoned fly fisherman or the youngest first-time angler will be filled with anticipation and excitement as you never know what the day’s catch will bring.

Fish of the Indian River Lagoon

Master or beginning anglers might catch and reel in:

• Spotted Seatrout

  • Seatrout are one of the most popular gamefish along the Space Coast in Florida. These fish can grow to be more than 30 inches long. They are excellent fighting fish. To land such a fish on light tackle is a true joy and a guaranteed memorable battle. Can you imagine what a catch that would be?

• Sheepshead

  • Sheepshead are found mainly around structures such as bridges, docks, and pilings. This, combined with their large “human-like” teeth and bad disposition, always makes for a fun, memorable fight. Due to their distinctive black and white striping, some refer to them as the “convict” fish.
    

• Mangrove Snapper

  • You’ll find Mangrove Snapper in the Indian River Lagoon also. A small nibble turns into a fun fighting fish, especially for their size, typically 10-14 inches long and one to two pounds. If you’re a beginner, it feels like you’ve just caught a whale of a fish.

• Redfish
  

• Another one of the most popular gamefish is the Redfish. Our fishing grounds are known as the “Redfish Capital of the World.” Whether catching a small Redfish or large “bull red,” you’re sure to have a great time while reeling in a Redfish. On average, these fish run between 22-27 inches long and weigh between 6-10 pounds.
  

• Snook

  • Snook are another popular gamefish along Florida’s Space Coast. These fish can weigh up to 45 pounds, but more often than not you’ll catch one that is about five to six pounds. Once you see the famous Snook “blackline” flash at you in the water, the fight is on to keep him from running back to the mangroves and breaking off the line. Catching a true “linesider” may get you entry into the exclusive “40 Inch Club”. Anytime you land a Snook is a reason to smile!
    

• Black Drum

• Black Drum are challenging to hook as they’re known for their finicky appetite. Once hooked, it’s sure to be an aggressive, epic battle. One of the larger gamefish in the Indian River Lagoon is known for its fight and distinctive “drumming” sound. Once you’ve landed a Black Drum on a charter, it’s music to your ears and a smile to your face.

• Tarpon

  • These fish are the largest fish found in the Indian River Lagoon, easily reaching 75-100 pounds. If you are lucky, you might catch one that is four feet long! Jumping a Tarpon is on a lot of people’s bucket lists. If you land one, it’s definitely a charter you will never forget!

While these are just a few of the many different species that call the Indian River Lagoon home, many other fish are sure to bring a challenge to even the most experienced fisherman. After all, if you hook a “doormat” of a Flounder, any angler would be thrilled to scratch that off their bucket list. 

So, bring your camera and snap a picture of you with your catch. We’d love it if you shared your “fishies” (fish selfies) with us after the fishing charter is over!

Take your Florida living up a notch with a Fishing Charter charter with us! There is so much for you and your party to explore along Florida’s east coast. 

Book Your Next Fishing Charter

There is nothing better than taking time to relax and fish on one of our fishing charters. Our Florida Boat Tours in Merritt Island, FL, and around the Cape Canaveral area are the best around the East Coast. Contact us today to learn more about our variety of trip types. Don’t hesitate to book a charter!

We look forward to making this an experience you will never forget. Contact us today to schedule a tour along the Indian River Lagoon. We can accommodate up to 6 individuals on each fishing charter. Additionally, we now offer private tours. What’s the hold-up? Join one of our boat tours today to experience the majestic beauty of the Indian River Lagoon in Florida!