LuckyFly Charters in Apalachicola

LuckyFly Charters offers Forgotten Coast fishing with Captain TJ Saunders. Based in Apalachicola, TJ follows fishing opportunities across Big Bend and nearby coastal waters, using a shallow-draft skiff for fly and light-tackle outings.

Contact and booking details

TJ Saunders and the LuckyFly skiff

TJ grew up in a Coast Guard family and developed his saltwater fishing interests in the Florida Keys. His guiding approach emphasizes sight fishing and accurate casting to fish on the flats. He also offers topwater and other artificial-lure techniques.

LuckyFly is a 17.8-foot Hell's Bay Professional powered by a 70-horsepower Yamaha. The skiff is chosen for its layout, shallow draft and quiet movement while being poled. Confirm the number of anglers and comfortable seating for your outing.

Targets and trip prices

Redfish, tarpon and seatrout are principal targets, with seasonal possibilities including cobia, jacks, tripletail and mackerel. Tarpon trips may work beaches, sandbars or backwaters. TJ selects areas according to the date and fish movements.

Four hours is listed at $600 and six at $750. Tarpon outings of seven hours or more are advertised at $900. Gratuity is separate, and the exact guest basis and duration should be confirmed with TJ.

Provided fly and spinning equipment

Thomas and Thomas fly rods, Hatch reels and Captain TJ's own flies are available. Conventional gear includes G. Loomis spinning rods and Florida Fishing Products reels. Guests may bring a favorite rod or their own fly patterns.

Bottled water is supplied, while guests bring lunch, snacks, sun protection and light rain gear. Polarized sunglasses are particularly useful for the sight-fishing focus. Ask about license coverage and any additional equipment requirements.

Deposit and changing launch areas

A $250 deposit reserves the date. Guest cancellation at least five days ahead credits the deposit toward another charter within a year; closer cancellations or no-shows forfeit it. Captain weather cancellations allow a refund or future-trip credit.

Listed ramps range from St. Marks and Shell Point through Carrabelle, Apalachicola, Mexico Beach and Cape San Blas. Call or text TJ for the assigned launch, arrival time and parking. The wider service area does not mean every trip starts in Apalachicola.

Details checked October 9, 2026, using the operator’s published information. Rates, boats, meeting points and policies can change; confirm the final trip details directly. Listed species describe possible targets, not a guaranteed catch or an open harvest season.

Featured photo: LuckyFly Charters angler holding a redfish. Photo from LuckyFly Charters.

Explore more Florida fishing charters or check local tides and weather before planning your day.