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Inshore Fishing Charters In Sarasota

Check real-time availability on Sarasota inshore fishing trips. Online booking | 4.79 / 5 stars | Guides from $500

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Recently Booked Inshore Fishing Charters Near Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Classic Trip

100% (5)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Sarasota

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Inshore/Nearshore

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Bountiful Backwaters Of Sarasota

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Sarasota

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Bay And Reef Near Shore

100% (6)
20 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Chasing Monsters - 24’ Pathfinder

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24 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Fishing Fun In The Florida Sun

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24 ft 1 - 6 People From $650

Most Popular Types of Inshore Trips in Sarasota

Top Species for Inshore Fishing in Sarasota

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More Inshore Fishing Charters Near Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for Sarasota 1/2 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox in Sarasota

The possibilities are endless when you head out for a 4 hour trip with Captain Scott. If you're looking for your next trophy, he can show you how to hook into some prized trophy fish like Snook, Sharks, and Redfish. If you're interested in filling the cooler he can take to his favorite spots to catch limits of Sheepshead, Flounder, Redfish, Snappers, Groupers, Trout, and many more. Or if you're looking to explore a little further from shore, you can try bottom fishing or trolling to entice a bite from some Grouper, Spanish, and King Mackerel! Captain Scott also has some fly gear available! So if that's your flavor let Captain Scott know in the days leading up to your trip! His Sea Fox Skiff is the perfect vessel for sight fishing up into the shallows around Sarasota. Everything is provided on Captain Scott's trips including licenses, fishing gear, bait, and ice. So all you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, and Captain Scott will make sure you have a great time out on the water! Please, have in mind that 735-pound is the weight limit combined for guests, which is usually equal to 3 adults or 2 adults with 2 kids. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota 1/2 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox

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22 ft 1 - 3 People From $500
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for Southwest Florida Fishing Adventure in Sarasota

Head out for an awesome fishing adventure around Sarasota, FL with Captain Cody! Though he loves running further from shore to bottom fish the reefs for grouper, snapper, and pelagic species, the weather conditions have to be pretty stellar to allow this kind of trip. Thus, aboard his 23' Parker, he spends a lot of time hammering the inshore with his clients, and there are no shortage of fish (and big ones at that!) to catch! Lush grass flats abound in this area. These shallow grass flats are full of crabs, shrimp, and baitfish which in turn attract the game fish. Snook, Speckled Trout, and Redfish are the most sought after species, but you can also expect to hook into Spanish Mackerel, Jack Crevalle, Flounder, Bluefish, Ladyfish, and others! Fishing the shallow flats requires patience and attention to detail. Fish are spooky in water that is only a couple of feet deep. The beauty of Captain Cody's 23' Parker is that it has a shallow enough draft to get you good shots up on the flats and in the back bays and inlets, while also having enough room and stability to haul it further offshore on a nice day! All of Captain Cody's trips include ice, bottled water, fishing gear, live bait, licenses, and fish cleaning at end of the trip. There is plenty of room in the cooler as well for your favorite snacks and drinks if you'd like to bring them along as well. Captain Cody's main pick-up location is the 10th Street Boat ramp (Dan Roehr Boat Ramp), but depending on where you are staying he can also accommodate launching anywhere from north of Tampa to the south side of Venice. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Southwest Florida Fishing Adventure

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21 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for Backcountry Fire Up! in Sarasota

Sarasota Bay offers a vast array of angling options, including the mile long sand bar (appropriately named Long Bar) where you can sight cast to snook, redfish and trout. Endless deep grass flats like Jon Ringling Museum Flats, Long Boat Key Flats, or Marina Jacks Flats, offer a vast array of species such as Snook, redfish, seatrout, ladyfish, jack crevalle, flounder, bluefish, mackerel, pompano and more. Sarasota is the perfect family fishing experience. Sarasota Bay is fed by 3 passes - Big Pass, New Pass and Longboat Key Pass – and this allows migratory fish such as mackerel, pompano, bluefish to move easily into the bay during winter months. If fishing the inshore flats, we will be targeting the big three SW Fl gamefish snook, redfish, seatrout. We will be fishing in and around the many mangrove islands and sand bars of Sarasota Bay. This area is loaded with shallow grass flats, miles of mangrove lines, oyster bars and potholes, providing prime fishing grounds for this type of fishing. Just outside the passes near shore along Siesta Key, Casey Key, and Longboat Key, there’s Bonita, mackerel, king mackerel, Spanish mackerel and triple tail. Sarasota tarpon fishing off the beaches is tremendous when they migrate here in May, June and July. a little further offshore we fish reefs and wrecks for snapper, Cobia, barracuda, key west grunts, Sheepshead, sharks, snapper and more. Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Backcountry Fire Up!

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for Sarasota's #1 Inshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Fishing in comfort, Join me on the aqua blue water of Sarasota, targeting Redfish, Snook, Trout, Black Drum, Snapper, Sheepshead, and more. Ideal for passionate anglers and the folks who just want to come aboard for a good time with family and friends. You can fish on the bow while they relax in the shade and cheer you on. “Fishing in the front and party in the back!” Read More

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota's #1 Inshore Fishing Charter

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23 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for NO BOAT - NO seasickness beach trip in Sarasota

Beach fishing at its best catching all the Sarasota inshore species that the charter boats do for a lot less. Great for kids with short attention spans or people who want to learn life skills. Read More

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

NO BOAT - NO Seasickness Beach Trip

100% (1)
1 - 4 People From $435
Damn Good
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Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for 6 Hours Fishing trip in Sarasota

Those trips are always lots of fish and lots of fun. You will be heading out for Kingfish, Snapper, Grouper, Kingfish, Tuna, and many other exciting species. The list of your potential catches will depend on the season and what's biting. Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

6 Hours Fishing Trip

NEW
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
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Everything to Know About Booking a Sarasota inshore fishing charter

What are the best inshore fishing charters in Sarasota?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 69 inshore trips in Sarasota, and the most popular trips in the area are Sarasota Classic Trip guided by James, Sarasota Inshore/Nearshore guided by Darius, and Bay and Reef Near Shore guided by Todd.

Our guides in Sarasota are rated a 4.79 out of 5 based on 2791 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.

Other popular cities nearby for booking an Inshore charter include St. Petersburg, Holmes Beach and Ruskin.

Looking for kid friendly inshore guides / fishing lessons in Sarasota? Check out our beginner and family friendly inshore guides in Sarasota.

What types of inshore fishing charters are common in Sarasota?

The most commonly sought after species for inshore Fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. snook, 3. speckled trout, and 4. mangrove snapper.

The most common fishing techniques in Sarasota are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and bottom fishing but trolling and drift fishing are popular as well.

How much do Sarasota inshore fishing charters cost?

for inshore fishing in Sarasota prices can range anywhere from about $500 to $1,100, but the average price for a half day trip for inshore fishing in Sarasota is $639. The average price for a full day trip for inshore fishing in Sarasota is $984.

What month is best for inshore fishing in Sarasota?

The most popular season for inshore fishing in Sarasota is summer, and most anglers book their trips 3 days in advance.

Do I need a Sarasota fishing license and what are the bag limits in Sarasota?

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Sarasota don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Sarasota.

What is inshore fishing in Sarasota all about?

Inshore fishing in Sarasota, Florida, offers anglers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the diverse and thriving ecosystems of the Gulf Coast. Nestled between Tampa Bay to the north and Charlotte Harbor to the south, Sarasota boasts a rich tapestry of habitats, including expansive grass flats, winding mangrove-lined creeks, and intricate network of channels and passes. These nutrient-rich waters support a vast array of game fish, making it a premier destination for inshore anglers seeking adventure and excitement.

One of the defining features of inshore fishing in Sarasota is the abundance of prized species that call these waters home year-round. From the hard-fighting snook and tarpon to the elusive redfish and speckled trout, anglers have no shortage of targets to pursue throughout the seasons. Whether wading the shallow flats in pursuit of tailing reds or casting topwater plugs along mangrove shorelines for explosive strikes, Sarasota offers endless opportunities for anglers to test their skills and reel in trophy-sized catches.

Moreover, the accessibility and convenience of inshore fishing in Sarasota make it an ideal destination for anglers of all levels of experience. Numerous public boat ramps, fishing piers, and kayak launches dot the coastline, providing easy access to prime fishing grounds without the need for a boat. Additionally, local fishing guides and charters offer expert knowledge and guidance, ensuring that anglers can make the most of their time on the water and maximize their chances of success. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-time visitor, inshore fishing in Sarasota promises an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of Florida's Gulf Coast.

What species are most popular inshore fishing in Sarasota?

Inshore fishing in Sarasota, Florida, presents anglers with a diverse array of species to target, each offering its own unique challenges and rewards. One of the most coveted species among anglers is the snook, known for its aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps. These elusive fish can be found prowling the mangrove shorelines, docks, and bridges, particularly during the warmer months when they migrate into shallow waters to spawn. Anglers often target snook using live bait such as pinfish or pilchards, as well as artificial lures like jerkbaits and swimbaits, to entice these prized game fish.

Another popular target for inshore anglers in Sarasota is the redfish, also known as red drum. Renowned for their strength and stamina, redfish can be found patrolling the grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove edges throughout the year. They are particularly active during the cooler months of fall and winter, when they gather in large schools to feed on baitfish and crustaceans. Anglers typically target redfish using live bait such as shrimp or cut mullet, as well as artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics, to tempt these powerful fish into striking.

Additionally, tarpon are a prized catch for inshore anglers in Sarasota, drawing anglers from around the world to test their skills against these formidable adversaries. Known for their aerial acrobatics and blistering runs, tarpon can be found cruising the shallow flats, passes, and channels from spring through fall. Anglers often target tarpon using live bait such as threadfin herring or mullet, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits and topwater plugs, to provoke these majestic fish into striking. Whether chasing snook, redfish, tarpon, or any of the other diverse species that inhabit Sarasota's inshore waters, anglers are sure to find plenty of excitement and adventure on Florida's Gulf Coast.

What are the inshore fishing seasons in Sarasota?

Inshore fishing seasons in Sarasota, Florida, offer anglers a dynamic and ever-changing landscape of opportunities throughout the year. Each season brings its own unique conditions and species to target, ensuring that there's always something exciting in store for fishermen of all levels of experience. Spring heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures and an abundance of baitfish, triggering a surge in activity among inshore game fish. Species like snook and redfish become more active as they move into shallow waters to feed and spawn, presenting anglers with prime opportunities to hook into trophy-sized catches.

As summer descends upon Sarasota, inshore fishing reaches its peak, with water temperatures rising and fish becoming more aggressive in their pursuit of prey. Mangrove shorelines, grass flats, and oyster bars come alive with activity as snook, redfish, and tarpon actively hunt for baitfish and crustaceans. Anglers can capitalize on this abundance by targeting these species using a variety of techniques, from casting topwater plugs and soft plastics to live bait fishing with shrimp or mullet. However, summer also brings its own set of challenges, including increased boat traffic and afternoon thunderstorms, requiring anglers to plan their outings accordingly for the best results.

As fall approaches, inshore fishing in Sarasota enters a period of transition, with cooler temperatures and changing water conditions influencing the behavior of local game fish. Snook and redfish continue to provide consistent action, while species like trout and flounder become more active as they prepare for the winter months ahead. Anglers can take advantage of this seasonal shift by targeting grass flats, mangrove shorelines, and deeper channels where fish congregate to feed before the onset of colder weather. With fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures, fall offers an ideal opportunity for anglers to explore the diverse inshore waters of Sarasota and reel in some memorable catches.

What techniques are popular for inshore fishing in Sarasota?

Inshore fishing techniques in Sarasota, Florida, encompass a wide range of strategies tailored to the region's diverse habitats and target species. One popular method among anglers is sight fishing, which involves scanning the clear, shallow waters for signs of feeding fish and making precise casts to entice them. This technique is particularly effective for species like snook and redfish, which often patrol the mangrove shorelines and grass flats in search of prey. Anglers may use lightweight spinning or fly-fishing gear to present artificial lures or live bait with finesse, ensuring a stealthy approach to avoid spooking wary fish.

Another common technique for inshore fishing in Sarasota is bait fishing, which involves presenting natural baits such as shrimp, mullet, or pinfish to hungry predators. This method can be highly effective, especially when targeting species like flounder and trout that are known for their bottom-feeding habits. Anglers typically rig their baits on Carolina rigs or jigheads and deploy them near structure such as docks, bridges, and oyster bars, where fish are likely to congregate. Patience and a keen understanding of the local tides and currents are crucial for success when employing bait fishing techniques in Sarasota's inshore waters.

Artificial lure fishing is also a staple technique for inshore anglers in Sarasota, offering versatility and excitement in equal measure. From soft plastics and jerkbaits to topwater plugs and spoons, anglers have a plethora of options to choose from to match the prevailing conditions and the behavior of their target fish. Working these lures with a combination of twitches, pauses, and retrieves can trigger aggressive strikes from hungry predators, providing an adrenaline-fueled experience for anglers of all skill levels. Whether casting along mangrove shorelines, probing deep channels, or drifting over grass flats, mastering the art of artificial lure fishing is essential for unlocking the full potential of inshore fishing in Sarasota.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    The boys and I had a great time. It was the first time they’d ever been out on a charter. Kevin was a great host he put us on the fish cleaned our catch and was just a joy to spend four hours with. We would highly recommend. Where he picks you up they have valet parking and his boat is just a few steps away.

    Cornelius B. with Kevin W. of St. Pete Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had great time with Capt. Nick. Had us on fish all day long! Caught Reds, Trout and Snook. Highly recommended!!

    Kenneth K. with Nick K. of Holmes Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic 4 hour charter, Captain James was a blast and he knew where the fish were! Will book again, thanks for a great time.

    Ted M. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time with Brooke. Showed us a lot of the area while we fished. Had to change days because of weather. That was no factor. Glad all fit in. He is very interested in teaching the youth to fish. He got stuck with 2 old farts that still had a good time m

    Wayne J. with Brook W. of Bradenton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Stephen was an excellent guide. He helped my 11 year old son find different places to cast and even walked him into some deeper water to cast, which was exciting! He was prepared and very pleasant.

    Stacy W. with Steven H. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a wonderful morning with Captain Todd. He is professional, knowledgeable and great with kids. We caught so many fish! Great experience, highly recommend!

    Kristine C. with Todd W. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a super great time with Tony! He was friendly and very helpful, Made the adventure extra special. I would give Tony a 5 Star rating!!

    Steve T. with Tony F. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James was AWESOME! He was easy going, confident and a pleasure. One person in our party had never fished and Captain James was patient and instructional. He got us on fish immediately and we caught Jacks, Trout, Reds, and Snooks. I cannot recommend Captain James highly enough. I will definitely be using him in the future!

    James R. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Chris was a awesome guide 5 star

    Robert L. with Christopher T. of Ruskin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Best time with Capt Jusn and my son. His first time fishing on the Gulf

    David C. with Juan H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dimitri is a great fishing guild, extremely knowledgeable of the area and the target species you can go after. Even with not so great weather, he put us on the fish from the start to finish. Great conversations to be had and very knowledgeable about the local area and places to go. My wife and I had a great time and are looking forward to next year's trip to do it again.

    Richard K. with Dmitri S. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Taylor was great to fish with. We had my 3 year old son, my 70 year old father and my 14 year old nephew on the boat. Everyone had a blast and got a fish on a day that was not ideal conditions for fishing. Highly recommend and plan to use him and Alex again in the future.

    Bill Z. with Taylor C. of Bradenton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    My family fished with Alex today and everyone had a blast. Great guide and wonderful trip and experience with him and Taylor. Would highly recommend them and we plan to book them again in the future.

    Bill Z. with Alex K. of Bradenton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome morning with our terrific guide. Could not have been better. Thanks.

    Chip B. with Andrew C. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Darius was very informative and always helpful during out inshore fishing trip. He was always considering when it was best to move to a new location to provide the best fishing experience. He was also great to talk to and share thoughts about the area.

    Todd W. with Darius K. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Juan was a ton of fun! The man really knows his stuff about fishing in the St. Petersburg area. We caught tons of fish and he gave us a high quality service. Couldn’t suggest him enough!

    Jasuan C. with Juan H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast with James, it made our vacation!

    Theresa M. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Noel was professional, knowledgeable and genuinely fun to spend the day with. We caught a boat load of fish-snook, redfish and trout. Thanks

    Gerald G. with Noel S. of Bradenton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    A great pleasure going out fishing with Todd this morning. He put us on fish almost immediately, gave a couple of inexperienced fishermen some great tips, and kept us entertained with good conversation for the whole trip.

    Bradford R. with Todd W. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    I booked this trip for my sister and brother in law visiting from out of state. They caught a lot of fish and had a great time. We defiantly would use brook in the future.

    Mark F. with Brook W. of Bradenton, Florida

Other Types of Fishing in Sarasota

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