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Red Snapper Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability on 571 red snapper fishing trips. Online booking | 4.86 / 5 stars | Guides from $850

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Recently Booked Red Snapper Fishing Charters

Fishing in Gulf Shores

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Red Snapper Whacker

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $850
Fishing in Port Isabel

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Port Isabel

Red Snapper Adventure

NEW
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,350
Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

100% (7)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in South Padre Island

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

South Padre Island Deep Sea

92% (13)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,235
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Half Day Trip - 44' Custom

100% (17)
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,350
Fishing in Islamorada

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Ocean Thrills With Captain Don

100% (12)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $700

Top Cities for Red Snapper Fishing

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Red Snapper Fishing Charters

Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
trip description for Unforgettable Day Offshore in Fort Lauderdale

Are you ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime? Join Captain Tim aboard his luxurious 45' Hatteras sportfisher and set out on the crystal-clear waters of Fort Lauderdale, FL in search of trophy Sailfish, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi, Tuna, Bonita, Shark, Marlin, Barracuda, Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, and Kingfish. These species are a blast to catch and offer something for every angler. As you cruise out to the best fishing spots, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the coast and a chance to spot dolphins and other marine life. Once you've arrived at your destination, it's time to troll some lines and let the fun begin! With Captain Tim's expert guidance, you'll be reeling in these sought-after species in no time. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, you'll have an unforgettable day on the water with Captain Tim. You'll employ a few different techniques to land the fish, including trolling, bottomfishing, and even kite fishing! Whatever you want to catch, Captain Tim will do his utmost to get you on 'em! Captain Tim's 45' Hatteras sportfisher is a top-of-the-line fishing vessel, equipped with tons of gear and outfitted with amenities to improve your experience. She's powered by twin Detroit 8v-71 engines with a total of 700 horsepower, and features a cabin and flybridge, plus bait wells, ice boxes and more! Get out there and see what luxury fishing in Fort Lauderdale is all about! Fishing License, Ice Box, Water, Rods, Reels, Tackle & Fighting Chair included. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Unforgettable Day Offshore

92% (12)
45 ft 1 - 6 People From $850
Fishing in Stock Island
Fishing in Stock Island
Fishing in Stock Island
trip description for Key West Nearshore/Offshore Trip in Stock Island

Climb aboard with Captain Mike for an epic half, 3/4, or full-day experience off the coast of the beautiful Florida Keys! Whether you want to spend a half day near-shore, spend some extra time to go off-shore, or even do a little of both, this luxurious 63' custom built sportfisher will meet all your needs. Trolling the open waters can produce hard fighting species like Amberjacks, Sailfish and Mahi. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your captain take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the sweet sea breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Bottom fishing changes the target species to an entirely different set of fish. You can expect delicious and hard-fighting reef species like Snapper, Grouper and Amberjacks! Captain Mike will provide all the fishing gear you need to catch some picture-worthy fish. All that’s left to do is bring some food, drinks and sunscreen, and cast off with Captain Mike! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stock Island

Key West Nearshore/Offshore Trip

100% (3)
63 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,600
Fishing in Daytona Beach
Fishing in Daytona Beach
Fishing in Daytona Beach
trip description for Ledges and Reef Run in Daytona Beach

Capt. Scott is a USCG licensed 100 Ton Master Captain and has been fishing and diving the waters out of Ponce Inlet for over 25 years. Capt. Scott has competed in numerous offshore fishing tournaments, winning the Inaugural Fish Stock tournament in 2003 (formally the Striker). My father and grandfather first took me fishing when I was 5 years old. Over the years I have developed a passion and appreciation for the ocean and all the wonders it has to offer. I have caught monster fish, swam with wild dolphins, turtles, sharks and majestic Manta Rays, but most importantly I have experiences and memories that will never be forgotten. Allow me to share my passion with you, your family and friends and help you create the memories that will last a life time. ​ Captain Scott is the owner and operator. Captain Scott is a tournament-winning fisherman, who has been fishing these waters since 1989, and has his 100-ton USCG Captain’s License. Capt. Scott spends several days each week spear fishing, he can see firsthand where the fish are and what various bottom structures actually look like. He also maintains good relationships with other commercial fishermen and captains which provides an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and notes on recent fishing patterns. If you are serious about fishing or would like to introduce your family to a new experience, please give us a call. We look forward to helping you make the memories of a life time. I started fishing when I was 5 years old. In 1989 I moved to Central Florida to attend Stetson University, became a certified scuba diver, and have been diving and fishing out of Ponce Inlet ever since. Although I have landed plenty of monsters, I now find more enjoyment helping others experience the thrill of landing the fish of a lifetime. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Daytona Beach

Ledges And Reef Run

100% (7)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Bon Secour
Fishing in Bon Secour
Fishing in Bon Secour
trip description for Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin' in Bon Secour

If you're looking for a fantastic way to enjoy the summer down in Gulf Shores, AL, then you're in the right place! Captain Shawn is a real pro, and has fished professionally all over the world, including a legendary run on the Kona Cowboy out of Kona, Hawaii! The shallow inshore water here in Gulf Shores provides perfect habitat for several popular sportfish species, especially the "Big Three" of Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Flounder. There are also plenty of chances to hook Sheepshead, which share the same habitat. Whether you're a beginner or an old hand, hooking big time Redfish and Trout off the flats is absolutely thrilling, and Captain Shawn has plenty of tips and tricks to improve your fishing and put you in a position for success. You'll be fishing aboard his 25' Shearwater center console. She's perfect for this kind of trip, and she's powered by a powerful Mercury 300-HP outboard, so you can spend less time cruising and more time fishing. The boat is equipped with a GPS, fishfinder, live bait well, and an icebox for your keepers. When you come aboard with Captain Shawn, you'll be provided all the tackle and bait that you need. All you need to bring is food, drinks (no glass please), sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cooler for your catch. Fish cleaning is also available, so you can take home a delicious dinner! You can catch the Dauphin Island-Fort Morgan ferry every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. Please visit https://mobilebayferry.com/schedule/ for the daily schedule and pricing. Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Bon Secour

Gulf Shores Inshore Slammin'

90% (10)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $400
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Crushing Clearwater Offshore in Clearwater

Are you ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime? Come join Captain Steve or Captain DJ on board their beautiful 34' Crusader sportfishing vessel, and get out there on a thrilling charter fishing trip in the beautiful waters of Clearwater, FL! On this offshore trip, you'll be targeting a range of species across the whole water column. Up towards the surface, you'll troll and cast for Barracuda, Kingfish, Bonito,and Spanish Mackerel, while down on the bottom you'll drop lines for Grouper, Snapper, and Amberjack. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to try your hand at fishing, our experienced captains and crew have got you covered. The 34' Crusader is a purpose-built fishing vessel equipped with top-of-the-line fishing gear, comfortable seating, restrooms, and all the amenities you need for a successful day on the water. Licensed to carry up to 6 passengers, this safe, clean, comfortable vessel carries state-of-the-art Furuno GPS bottom-sounder and radar and is equipped with Coast Guard approved safety equipment, EPIRB radio beacon, life preservers, flares, and throwable life ring. There is a bathroom, tuna tower, outriggers for offshore trolling, fish-fighting chairs, and plenty of seating on board. 4 hour, 5 hour, and 6 hour charters are offered in the morning and afternoon and are generally bottom fishing in winter and trolling in spring, summer, and fall. 8 hour, 10 hour, and 12 hour charters require a morning departure (7am at the latest) and are the perfect length for bottom fishing, trolling, and live baiting. Red snapper season begins June 1st through July and requires a 10 or 12 hour trip! Captain Steve and Captain DJ have years of fishing experience out of Clearwater combined, so you'll be in great hands when you set out to bag some fish! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Crushing Clearwater Offshore

100% (5)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $880
Fishing in Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
trip description for Into the Depths- Captain Daniel in Port Aransas

Hit the water with Captain Daniel and experience an action-packed day of fishing! This 8, 10, or 12- hour deep-water adventure allows you to target a bigger variety of fish, such as Red Snapper (depending on the season), Mahi Mahi, and Tuna. The crew of Captain Daniel will guide you every step of the way. You will fish for big game fish, troll weed lines, and bottom fish around rocks, wrecks, and structure. The crew especially loves teaching kids and beginners everything about the different fish species available in this area, as well as fishing techniques. Captain Daniel will supply fuel, bait, top-of-the-line rods and reels, tackle, and ice. All you need to bring is a valid Texas Fishing License with a saltwater stamp for those over 16 years of age, food and drinks of your choice (no bananas), and comfortable life jackets if you are traveling with children. Enjoy an incredible day on the water with Captain Daniel! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Port Aransas

Into The Depths- Captain Daniel

100% (1)
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,000
See All Red Snapper Trips

Everything to Know About Booking a red snapper fishing charter

What are the best red snapper fishing charters?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 571 red snapper trips, and the most popular trips are Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip guided by Gage, South Padre Island Deep Sea guided by Emilio, and Half Day Trip - 44' Custom guided by Harold.

Our guides are rated a 4.86 out of 5 based on 2699 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly red snapper guides / fishing lessons? Check out our beginner and family friendly red snapper guides.

What types of red snapper fishing charters are common?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for red snapper as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most common fishing techniques are bottom fishing, trolling, and heavy tackle fishing but light tackle fishing and jigging are popular as well.

How much do red snapper fishing charters cost?

for red snapper prices can range anywhere from about $850 to $5,040, but the average price for a half day trip for red snapper is $1,375. The average price for a full day trip for red snapper is $3,156.

What month is best for red snapper fishing?

The most popular season for red snapper fishing is summer, and most anglers book their trips 69 days in advance.

Do I need a fishing license for red snapper and what are the bag limits for red snapper?

See here for more information on red snapper fishing licenses, red snapper bag limits, and fishing season regulations for red snapper. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right red snapper rules and regulations.

What is a red snapper?

The northern red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus) is a type of snapper most commonly found around the Gulf of Mexico, and is both the most populous and most sought after snapper in the area. It is both an important commercial and recreational fish, and red snapper season is one of the most recognizable times on the gamefish calendar for the area - many anglers have it circled on their calendar half a year ahead of time.

Red snapper are a medium-sized fish and (obviously) very red in color, and red snapper in deeper waters tend to be more red than those that live shallower. While most snapper get their name from their enlarged canine teeth (known as snappers), red snapper actually do not, but still have fairly sharp teeth so be careful handling their mouths.

How big do red snapper get?

Red snapper generally reaches maturity when they reach 15 inches at 2-5 years old, and an average adult might be 20 to 35 inches or more. They can live for up to 50 years, and interestingly will reach maturity faster and at a smaller size in Texas versus other parts of the Gulf. Adults will range from 10 to 20 pounds, and generally deeper water will mean larger fish.

Whats the biggest red snapper ever caught?

The world record red snapper weighed a crazy 50 pounds 4 ounces and was caught off the Louisiana coast by Doc Kennedy in 1996.

Where is the best place to catch red snapper?

While they range all over the Carribbean and up the Atlantic Coast, red snapper are most common and most abundant in the Gulf of Mexico. The most popular places to catch red snapper are in the panhandle of Florida or off the coast of central Texas.

Red snapper live on the bottom, and will inhabit rocky bottoms or other structure and reefs (or artificial reefs like offshore oil rigs). They are social fish and will form large schools where they find good structure, which is why every guide has a series of honey holes of their own where they know schools of snapper are sure to be. Schools also tend to be made up of fish of similar sizes.

Red snapper will generally live between 30-300 feet deep, with bigger fish inhabiting deeper waters further from shore. Their preferred habitat changes as they mature, and while younger fish will inhabit more open areas, older and bigger fish will seek more and more cover.

When should I catch red snapper?

The season for red snapper is interesting because it does not depend on fish behavior, but rather regulations set by the NOAA to set catch limits. The NOAA has set rebuilding plans for red snapper fisheries both in the Gulf of Mexico and on the lower Atlantic Coast, and both of these plans look to rebuild populations into the future. As such, there are annual catch limits, size limits, and season limits for both commercial and recreational anglers. Seasons and limits are set each year, and the federal limit can also differ from state water limits. The total catch limit is generally divided as 49% recreational and 51% commercial.

How do you catch red snapper?

Red snapper will eat almost anything, but live or frozen bait is generally easier than lures, although jigs are definitely still successful. The tricky thing about red snapper is that they tend to nibble rather than swallow, so you need to have a light touch and know when to hook them. The common frustration of many an angler is putting bait after bait down and jigging it only to reel up empty hook after empty hook.

Bigger snapper like structure, so to target them you'll hit reefs, wrecks, and offshore rigs. Sometimes the snapper can be caught by freelining, but generally they will be on the bottom. It goes without saying that if you want to catch a big red snapper, you need to use a big bait, generally a whole squid.

If you are releasing fish, you are required by law to use circle hooks and dehooking devices.

Are red snapper good to eat? What are the best red snapper recipes?

Red snapper might be king of the white fish. It is a prized fish for anglers to catch and eat as well as a prized fish commercially. The texture is firm and slightly sweet and nutty that goes well a number of different ways with a number of different ingredients. Many people will cook it whole or grill it skin-on, which will protect the fish from the flames and help it retain some of its flavor.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Captain and deck hand were great helpful and nice made the experience exciting and fun couldn’t ask for anyone better

    Betty S. with Zack G. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Captain and deck hand were great helpful and nice made the experience exciting and fun couldn’t ask for anyone better

    Betty S. with Zack G. of Orange Beach, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time fishing with Capitan Corey slow bite but still a great experience

    Joe R. with Corey B. of Rockport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    I've been out on charters many, many times mostly down the east coast but also in Cabo. I must say the trip out with captain Manny is one of the two best trips out I've ever experienced. Her out is on fish, Jordan (the mate) ensured the rods and basis were correct and ready to catch fish. This was just a half day trip but next trip I'm going full day. Wow, I highly recommend Captain Manny!!!!! The catch highlights have to include the 54" barracuda and a 7' shark (it took two of us tag teaming and over 30 minutes to bring the shark alongside the boat for measurement.

    Steve H. with Manny S. of Miami Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Best Fishing trip Every ! Great crew and the Kids had a blast ! Lots of fish !! Finally a Captain that knows how to get the fish !!

    Tracy G. with Derwyn B. of Freeport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome! Put us on the fish. Top notch operation. Best to do these trips with an experienced and knowledgeable guide. With 30 plus years Cap. Seth and deckhand Cameran get it done. No hassles, no issues. Cool cabin, places to rest on the long haul. This team would be hard to beat. Thanks guys!

    Lee M. with Seth H. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Great time Capt. Larry and Justin were very helpful. We had several rookies in our group and Justin helped get them started. They made sure we had plenty of time to fish.

    Greg K. with Larry M. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Nels always knows how to find the fish, and not just your average sizes but mammoths and giants. Great crew and a great boat too, we loved the couches inside to catch a quick break from the sun.

    Bosko S. with Mark B. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    A friend and I we went out with Cpt. Gage for some afternoon offshore fishing. As soon as my line was in the water I had a bite, then we caught fish after fish! We mush have caught about 50 fish between us. It was a great experience and is highly recommended. I’d never fished before in my life, but after being shown what to do it was easy to pick up.

    John M. with Gage B. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We have been deep sea fishing 6 or 7 times and by far this has been our best experience so far! Captain Zach and First Mate Jason with No Alibi had us on fish from the word go and we kept catching all day throughout our 12 hour trip!

    Joshua C. with Zachary W. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Corey was an amazing guide! We had a blast and caught some reds. Will be booking with Corey again!!!

    Kathryn E. with Corey B. of Port Aransas, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Corey was an amazing guide! We had a blast and caught some reds. Will be booking with Corey again!!!

    Kathryn E. with Corey B. of Port Aransas, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely amazing fishing experience! From catching a variety of big fish to catching sharks and seeing dolphins, it was the complete package. Highly recommend. The guides answered all our questions and talked to us like we’ve been friends for years. 100% would go on this trip again.

    Karlee G. with Heather H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    All of us had a blast. Enjoyed every minute of it. The kids caught a nice size keeper each. Definitely will come back again.

    Sidney B. with Jordan N. of Fort Walton Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip! DJ and Milan did a great job getting us into the fish! Caught a really nice blue fish. Great experience! Thank you!

    Rex G. with Heather H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Corey did a wonderful job. Gives great service. Has an awesome attitude. Handles his boat well, Very clean and well kept. Will definitely book with him again.

    Henry V. with Corey B. of Port Aransas, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Trip was great even though the weather was bad

    David G. with Corey B. of Rockport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Shawn did a great job on a tough day. Really enjoyed the experience!

    Eric . with Shawn S. of Bon Secour, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    Five of us did the 8 hour trolling and bottom fishing. It was an amazing experience from start to finish and we caught a barrel of fish including vermilion snapper, triggerfish, grouper and an Atlantic bluefish. We caught and released several out of season fish as well. Captian Kyle and Mate Danny are super friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and made the trip an outstanding one. We were all first timers and they made us look and feel like seasoned pros.

    Michael E. with Kyle L. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Enjoyed the trip! Booked last minute and Captain Henry was great! Fish we stubborn but he worked his magic and made the trip amazing!

    William S. with Henry R. of South Padre Island, Texas

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View Red Snapper Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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