Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to hit the waters of the Mississippi Gulf Coast for some top-notch fishing? Captain Ben here, and I'm itching to get you out on my boat for a 4-hour fishing trip you won't forget. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, my charters are all about having a blast and hopefully landing some impressive catches. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's dive into what makes fishing in Gulfport, MS so darn special.
Picture this: You and up to five of your buddies, out on the sparkling Gulf waters, with nothing but the horizon ahead and the promise of fish below. That's what you're in for with my 4-hour fishing charters. We'll cruise out from Gulfport harbor, and I'll take you straight to where the action is. Whether you're after the hard-fighting Jack Crevalle or the tasty Redfish, I've got the local know-how to put you on the fish. And hey, if you're feeling adventurous, we might even tangle with a Blacktip Shark – now that'll get your heart racing!
I keep things flexible, so if you're an early bird or more of a afternoon angler, we can set sail at a time that works for you. Just remember, the fish don't take lunch breaks, so we won't either – make sure to bring some snacks to keep your energy up. Oh, and don't sweat it if you're new to this. I'll show you the ropes, from baiting your hook to reeling in the big one. My boat's got all the gear you need, so all you have to bring is your game face and a good attitude.
Alright, let's talk fishing. Out here in the Gulf, we mix it up depending on what's biting. Some days we'll be trolling for Mackerel, dragging lures behind the boat as we cruise along. Other times, we might anchor up and bottom fish for Redfish or Cobia. I've got a few secret spots where the fish seem to always be hungry – but don't ask me to mark them on a map, a captain's gotta have some mysteries!
We use a variety of techniques, from live bait fishing to casting artificial lures. I'll show you how to work a popping cork for Redfish or jig for Cobia around the oil rigs. And if we're after those toothy critters like Blacktip Sharks, we'll break out the heavy tackle and chum the waters. It's all about adapting to what Mother Nature throws our way, and trust me, after years on these waters, I've seen it all.
Now, I could go on all day about the fishing, but let's hear from some folks who've been out with me before. Unfortunately, I don't have any specific reviews to share at the moment, but I can tell you that nothing beats the look on an angler's face when they reel in their personal best or catch their first shark. Those are the moments that keep me coming back to the water day after day.
Let's talk about some of the fish you might tangle with on our trip. First up, the Spanish Mackerel. These speedsters are a blast to catch and even better on the grill. They school up in our waters from spring through fall, and when they're running, the action can be non-stop. They're not huge – usually 2 to 4 pounds – but what they lack in size, they make up for in fight and numbers.
Next, we've got the Jack Crevalle. These bruisers are like the bulldogs of the sea. They're not great eating, but pound for pound, they're some of the hardest fighting fish in the Gulf. Jacks can show up any time of year, but they're most common in the warmer months. When you hook into a big one, hold on tight – they've been known to straighten hooks and break lines!
Now, if you're looking for a real adrenaline rush, let's talk Blacktip Sharks. These guys start showing up in our waters in late spring and stick around through the summer. They're fast, they're strong, and when they jump, it's a sight to behold. Blacktips usually run 3 to 5 feet long, but even the smaller ones will give you a workout. And yes, we practice catch and release with these toothy critters – gotta keep 'em in the water for the next angler to enjoy.
For those of you interested in something for the dinner table, Redfish are hard to beat. These copper-colored beauties are a Gulf Coast staple. They hang around all year, but the fall is prime time when the big bull reds come in close to shore. There's nothing quite like the thump of a big redfish taking your bait, and the fight they put up is legendary. Plus, they're delicious – blackened redfish is a local favorite for a reason.
Last but not least, we've got the Cobia. These curious fish are sometimes called "lemonfish" or "ling," and they're prized by anglers for their hard fights and excellent table fare. Cobia start showing up in our waters in spring and hang around through the summer. They're often found around structures like buoys or oil rigs, and they can grow big – 30 to 50 pounders aren't uncommon. When you see that brown torpedo coming up to the boat, get ready for some serious action!
So there you have it, folks – a little taste of what you can expect on a 4-hour fishing trip with Captain Ben's Charters. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with some tasty fillets or just want to experience the thrill of battling big fish, I've got you covered. The Gulf Coast is calling, and the fish are waiting. Why not make some memories out on the water?
Don't let another fishing season pass you by. Give me a shout, and let's get your trip on the books. Remember, the best fishing stories always start with "You should've been there..." – so come on out and make some stories of your own. See you on the water!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 20
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 330