Jacksonville, FL Marine & Fishing Forecast

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the tides in Jacksonville, FL today?

Jacksonville, FL experiences a mixed semidiurnal tide pattern common along the Gulf Coast, with two unequal high and low tides each day. The difference between highs can be significant, so check both tide heights when planning your trip.

What is the best time to fish in Jacksonville, FL?

The best fishing near Jacksonville, FL is typically one to two hours before and after each tide change, when moving water flushes bait off flats and through passes. On the Gulf Coast, outgoing tides are often the most productive because they concentrate baitfish in channels and creek mouths.

Is it safe to boat in Jacksonville, FL today?

Check the live wind forecast above for current conditions near Jacksonville, FL. Gulf waters can build steep chop quickly in winds above 15 mph, especially when wind opposes the tidal current. Afternoon sea breezes are common from spring through fall and can increase winds significantly after midday.

What is the water temperature near Jacksonville, FL?

Water temperature data for Jacksonville, FL is sourced from the nearest NOAA station (8720218). In Florida, seasonal temperature swings significantly influence which species are active and where they can be found — check current readings in the tide panel above.

What wind conditions are expected in Jacksonville, FL today?

The wind chart above shows today's hourly forecast for Jacksonville, FL using Open-Meteo weather model data. Along the Gulf Coast, east and southeast winds typically produce the best inshore fishing conditions with cleaner water, while west and southwest winds can push murky water across bays.

Fishing in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville is northeast Florida's fishing hub, with the St. Johns River and numerous tidal tributaries providing outstanding inshore fishing right in the city. Redfish and spotted seatrout are the primary targets in the marshes and grass flats around the river mouth, while the river itself holds large largemouth bass and striped bass in cooler months.

Planning Your Trip

Mayport — Jacksonville's fishing port — provides direct access to nearshore reefs and offshore structure holding grouper, snapper, and amberjack. The St. Johns River mouth is one of the East Coast's best places for tarpon during their spring migration. Cobia follow the tarpon schools and are a prized incidental catch during this time.

Jacksonville's extensive beach communities offer excellent surf fishing for pompano, whiting, and redfish along the wide sandy shorelines. Kingfish and Spanish mackerel are abundant just off the beach during fall and spring. Fort George Inlet and Nassau Sound to the north provide additional access to productive inshore waters.

Nearby Marine Forecasts