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Tampa Bay Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability on 97 Tampa Bay fishing trips. Online booking | 4.93 / 5 stars | Guides from $500

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters Near Tampa Bay

Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

100% (7)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Offshore Fishing

100% (7)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Crushing Clearwater Offshore

100% (5)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $880
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 Tampa

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures

100% (8)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Tampa

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

100% (10)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $300
Fishing in Tampa

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Shark Fishing

100% (8)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $300

Most Popular Types of Trips in Tampa Bay

“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

Red Snapper Fishing Charters Near Tampa Bay

Fishing in Gulfport

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Gulfport

Full Day Offshore

100% (1)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in St. Petersburg

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Offshore Experience

100% (5)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in St. Petersburg

Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Tampa Bay Nearshore Run

NEW
27 ft 1 - 5 People From $800
Fishing in St. Petersburg

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in St. Petersburg

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Florida Classics On Light Tackle

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in St. Petersburg

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Red Snapper - 28' Polar

NEW
1 - 5 People From $2,000

Deep Sea Fishing Charters Near Tampa Bay

Fishing in St. Petersburg

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Deep Water Bottomfishing

NEW
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $900
Fishing in Gulfport

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Gulfport

Full Day Offshore

100% (1)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Offshore Reefs & Wrecks

100% (2)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in St. Petersburg

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Red Snapper - 28' Polar

NEW
1 - 5 People From $2,000
Fishing in St. Petersburg

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in St. Petersburg

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Offshore Experience

100% (5)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $700

Inshore Fishing Charters Near Tampa Bay

Fishing in St. Petersburg

Inshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Tampa Bay Tarpon Roundup

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Belleair Bluffs

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Belleair Bluffs

Sunny Fishing On Tampa Bay

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Ruskin

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Scalloping Adventure - 24’ Skipjack

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $705
Fishing in Ruskin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Inshore Rodeo

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Clearwater

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Flats Fishing

100% (5)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Ruskin

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Rod-Bender

NEW
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $650

Nearshore Fishing Charters Near Tampa Bay

Fishing in Ruskin

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Rod-Bender

NEW
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $650
Fishing in Ruskin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Sharkfest - 25’ Sportsman

NEW
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Ruskin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Inshore Rodeo

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Southwest Florida Fishing Adventure

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Belleair Bluffs

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Belleair Bluffs

Sunny Fishing On Tampa Bay

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Ruskin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Nearshore Tampa Bay - 25’ Sportsman

NEW
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000

More Fishing Charters Near Tampa Bay

Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Coastal Clearwater Charter in Clearwater

Join Captain Cameron for an amazing day out on the water, tailored to your skill level and goals. Captain Cameron's expertise lies in his ability to customize your trip to exceed your expectations, whether you're a seasoned angler looking to catch your next trophy or just starting out. Off the coast of Clearwater, FL, you'll find a diverse range of inshore species, including Snook, Redfish, Black Drum, and Sea Trout. If you want to explore deeper waters, Captain Cameron can take you to check out reefs for amberjack and grouper. In the summer months, Tarpon also migrate through the waters off of Clearwater. You just need to let Captain Cameron know which species you want to target, and he'll make it happen! Captain Cameron's boat comes fully equipped with everything you need for a successful day of fishing, including rods, reels, tackle, bait, and fishing licenses. All you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, sun protection, and camera, and Captain Cameron will take care of the rest! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Coastal Clearwater Charter

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater Flats fishing in Clearwater

Captain Tyson specializes in fishing the inlets and beaches for world-class saltwater fish species. The pristine waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast including Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Redington Beach and Tampa Bay are home to an incredibly diverse variety of gamefish including: snook, trout, redfish and the king of inshore fishing…the mighty tarpon. Come fish with us! Whether you're a serious angler wanting to pursue a quest for a trophy fish or a novice wanting to learn the basics of saltwater fishing, he can do it all. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Flats Fishing

100% (5)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater Fishing Thriller! in Clearwater

Are you ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime? Come join Captain Steve or Captain DJ on board their beautiful 34' delta 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' Delta sportfisher 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

Clearwater Fishing Thriller!

100% (3)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $880
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater Classic in Clearwater

Hop on board with Captain William and prepare for an action-packed day of fishing the flats! Clearwater is home to plenty of productive inshores and flats where you can catch some of the prized fish Florida is known for without going too far from the dock. On this 4, 6 or 8-hour trip, Captain William will take you to the inshores to target Snook, Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder and Shark, or venture you into nearshore waters where you can go after some Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, Black Seabass, Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel and Shark. You'll be targeting these fish using methods such as light tackle, heavy tackle, bottom fishing, trolling and jigging. Just let Captain William know what you want to catch and he'll get you set up with the best method! You’ll be fishing aboard a 21' Rabco Marine center console that can hold up to 4 guests. Powered by a 115 HP Yamaha engine, this vessel will have no problem bouncing you around the inshores and nearshores! She comes complete with GPS, Fishfinder, a Flybridge, Live Bait Well and Ice Box to store your catches. Captain William will even clean any keepers for you to take home! Captain William will provide all rods, reels, tackle, bait and fishing licenses. He'll even provide snacks and water, and on the full-day trips you can expect a tasty lunch too! All you need to bring is polarized sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and any extra food or drinks you might want. Come see what Clearwater has to offer! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Classic

100% (2)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
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 Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Reel Salty Sportfishing in Clearwater

Nick invites you to check out the local fishery in style. Come on aboard with Capt. Nick, whose main priority is to get you on some fish. Expect to use light tackle based on the species you're targeting. Speaking of which, you have the option of 4 to 8-hour trips, where you'll be fishing for the likes of Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Tripletail, depending on the specific season and the day's weather. Your adventure begins on board a 21' Sea Pro boat that can fit a maximum of 4 anglers. The price of your trip includes all the rods, reels, and terminal tackle you'll need for a productive day on the water. As for fishing licenses, everything will be taken care of by the captain so you don't have to worry about it. You're welcome to keep all legal species caught during the trip. Want to bring the rest of the family along for the ride? Kids are welcome aboard, so you're free to make it a family adventure. Book your trip now and hit the water with Nick. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Reel Salty Sportfishing

100% (5)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
trip description for St. Pete Offshore Experience in St. Petersburg

Go aboard Captain Greg's beautiful 32' Sabalo and see what fishing in St. Peter's is all about! You'll be able to get a taste of everything on this trip, including nearshore reef fishing, offshore trolling, and everything in between. There are so many species available on this trip that we're barely able to list them all! The Gulf of Mexico is know as the Grouper capital of the world, and in the reefs, wrecks, and ledges you'll fish there are Black, Red, Scamp, Gag, and Goliath Grouper. Aside from bottomfish, there are also tons of Gray Snapper, Mangrove Snapper, Red Snapper, Amberjack, and Triggerfish that can be caught on the same reefs! These fish are all absolutely delicious table fare, and Captain Greg is happy to clean your keepers at the end of the trip. For surface trolling, there's an abundance of King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Spanish Mackerel, Barracuda, and even Sharks! These species are a blast to catch and provide a challenge for every level of angler. You'll be fishing from a 32′ Sabalo sportfisher, built in the "Down East Cruiser" style. She has 15 feet of fishing deck space, with 11 rod holders and an open deck all the way around the stern. The 315-HP Cummins diesel engine makes her an extremely reliable fishing machine. With over 200 gallons of fuel capacity, she can take you out 100 miles and back with fuel to spare! In addition, she boasts 1800 lbs. of ice capacity; far more than a charter could ever need. This means there’s room for all your food, drinks, fish, and plenty of fresh ice. The creature comforts of this charter boat are more than worthy. Her central engine box has a cushion that’s 24 square feet and 6” thick for comfortable seating for six. There’s also a fish box with another 4 inch thick cushion that seats two. There’s also plenty of room to rest in the oversized v-berth below. Whether you want to relax on a fifty mile ride offshore or sit down and reel in a fish, there’s room for you AND five of your friends. Captain Greg will provide everything you need for a blue-ribbon day, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunscreen, proper clothing, sunglasses, and a smile! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Offshore Experience

100% (5)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
See All Trips in Tampa Bay

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Tampa Bay

What are the best fishing charters in Tampa Bay?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 97 trips in Tampa Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip guided by Gage, Clearwater offshore fishing guided by Brad, and Crushing Clearwater Offshore guided by Heather.

Our guides in Tampa Bay are rated a 4.93 out of 5 based on 2677 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.

The most popular cities to book a charter in are St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tierra Verde.

Looking for kid friendly charters / fishing lessons in Tampa Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Tampa Bay.

What types of fishing charters are common in Tampa Bay?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular in Tampa Bay as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Tampa Bay are: 1. redfish, 2. snook, 3. mangrove snapper, and 4. speckled trout.

The most common fishing techniques in Tampa Bay are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and bottom fishing but artificial lure fishing and trolling are popular as well.

How much do Tampa Bay fishing charters cost?

in Tampa Bay prices can range anywhere from about $500 to $1,450, but the average price for a half day trip in Tampa Bay is $626. The average price for a full day trip in Tampa Bay is $1,115.

What month is best for fishing in Tampa Bay?

The most popular season for fishing in Tampa Bay is spring, and most anglers book their trips 22 days in advance.

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

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

What is fishing in Tampa Bayall about?

Fishing in Tampa Bay offers anglers a diverse and rewarding experience amidst the stunning coastal scenery of Florida's Gulf Coast. With its vast expanse of waterways, Tampa Bay teems with an abundance of fish species, making it a prime destination for both seasoned anglers and novices alike. Whether you're casting your line from the shore, a pier, or a charter boat, the opportunities for an exciting catch are plentiful.

One of the highlights of fishing in Tampa Bay is the variety of species you can target. From popular game fish like snook, redfish, and tarpon to offshore favorites such as kingfish, grouper, and mahi-mahi, there's something for every angler's preference and skill level. Additionally, the bay's ecosystem supports a rich diversity of marine life, providing ample opportunities for anglers to reel in a memorable catch while immersing themselves in the region's natural beauty.

Beyond the thrill of the catch, fishing in Tampa Bay offers a chance to connect with nature and unwind amidst serene surroundings. Whether you're out on the water at sunrise, feeling the gentle sea breeze, or enjoying a leisurely day of fishing with friends and family, the experience is as much about relaxation and rejuvenation as it is about the pursuit of fish. With its combination of excellent fishing opportunities, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality, Tampa Bay stands out as a premier destination for anglers seeking an unforgettable fishing adventure.

What are the most popular months to fish in Tampa Bay?

Fishing seasons in Tampa Bay are influenced by a variety of factors, including weather patterns, water temperature, and migration patterns of different fish species. Understanding these seasonal variations is key to planning a successful fishing trip in the bay area. Springtime heralds the arrival of many prized game fish, including snook, redfish, and tarpon. As the waters warm up, these species become more active, offering anglers prime opportunities for exciting catches. Spring also marks the beginning of the tarpon migration season, drawing anglers from far and wide to test their skills against these powerful and acrobatic fish.

Summer in Tampa Bay brings with it a wealth of fishing opportunities, as the bay becomes a bustling hub of activity for both fish and anglers alike. With water temperatures on the rise, species like snapper, grouper, and Spanish mackerel become more abundant, providing plenty of action for those casting their lines near reefs, wrecks, and other underwater structures. Additionally, summer is prime time for offshore fishing adventures, with anglers targeting pelagic species such as kingfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna in the deeper waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

As the temperatures cool and the days grow shorter, fall ushers in a new season of fishing in Tampa Bay. This time of year is characterized by changing migratory patterns and an influx of baitfish into the bay, attracting predatory species like trout, flounder, and sheepshead. Fall also signals the return of the highly anticipated snook season, as these prized game fish move back into the shallower waters of the bay to feed before winter sets in. With its mild climate and diverse range of fish species, fall offers anglers ample opportunities to enjoy the thrill of fishing in Tampa Bay before the arrival of winter.

What types of fishing are popular in Tampa Bay?

Fishing enthusiasts in Tampa Bay have a wealth of options when it comes to choosing their preferred method of angling. One popular approach is saltwater flats fishing, where anglers wade through shallow waters in search of species like redfish, snook, and spotted seatrout. This method requires stealth and precision casting, as fish often inhabit the grassy flats in search of prey. It's a thrilling experience to sight fish in crystal-clear waters, watching as your lure or fly entices a strike from a wary fish.

For those seeking a more adrenaline-pumping adventure, offshore fishing in Tampa Bay offers the chance to target larger pelagic species like kingfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna. Anglers venture out into deeper waters aboard charter boats, equipped with heavy-duty tackle and state-of-the-art fish-finding technology. Whether trolling with live bait or jigging over underwater structures, offshore fishing promises heart-pounding action and the opportunity to reel in trophy-sized catches.

Another popular form of fishing in Tampa Bay is pier and bridge fishing, which provides accessible opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Numerous piers and bridges dot the bay area, offering prime spots to cast a line for a variety of fish species. From snapper and sheepshead to tarpon and sharks, the waters around these structures are teeming with life year-round. It's a laid-back way to enjoy the beauty of Tampa Bay while waiting for that telltale tug on your line.

What species are popular in Tampa Bay?

In Tampa Bay, anglers are spoiled for choice when it comes to the variety of fish species they can target. One of the most sought-after game fish in the bay is the snook, known for its powerful runs and acrobatic leaps. Found in shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and around structures like docks and bridges, snook offer a thrilling challenge for anglers of all skill levels. Additionally, Tampa Bay is renowned for its abundant population of redfish, prized for their hard-fighting nature and delicious flesh. These copper-colored bruisers can be found prowling the flats and marshes, especially during the cooler months of the year.

Another popular species to target in Tampa Bay is the tarpon, often referred to as the "silver king" due to its majestic appearance and impressive size. Tarpon migrate through the bay in large numbers during the summer months, offering anglers the chance to test their skills against one of the most iconic game fish in Florida. Known for their explosive strikes and aerial acrobatics, tarpon provide an unforgettable angling experience for those lucky enough to hook into one. In addition to these flagship species, Tampa Bay is home to a diverse range of fish, including spotted seatrout, mangrove snapper, sheepshead, and flounder, ensuring there's always something biting no matter the time of year.

The bay's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico also opens up opportunities for offshore fishing adventures, with anglers targeting pelagic species such as kingfish, mahi-mahi, and grouper. Whether casting from the shore, exploring the flats in a shallow-draft skiff, or heading offshore in a deep-sea charter, Tampa Bay offers a fishing experience like no other, with a bounty of species waiting to be caught by eager anglers.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Wade was great. Worked hard and put me in lots of fish! Will definitely call him again!

    Brian G. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Not sure why we didn’t have our original captain as I selected on the web site. I would not recommend a trip through your services ever again. Very unprofessional operation and glad to provide the crappy feedback. Rating 2

    Robert P. with Roy J. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Great Fishing trip with Noah. We had a great time and we could not of asked for a better experience.

    Mike P. with Gage B. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic service and best Capt. And first mate. Wel all caught over 20 fish a piece. Will highly recommend your charter in the future.

    Foster (. with Brad D. of Clearwater, 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

  • ★★★★★
    Nick was an amazing captain! He got us on some fish right away! We had a great time!

    Chris S. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Experience of a Lifetime! You know when you book an Air&BnB or an excursion and you have a slight apprehension due to the uncertainty of what the host guarantees? I will tell you this upfront, book with confidence. Let me explain… I’m going to do my best, but to capture the essence of what we experienced, in simple written word, is nearly an impossible task. Our guided fishing trip really started out like any other excursion. We met early morning, dockside at the “Bait House”. The host gave very clear and concise directions to our link up, what to expect and recommendations on what to bring along. The day before our trip, the staff reached out directly to ensure everyone was on the same page. We had (6) in our party. (3) adults and (3) kids. We packed our own lunches, drinks, adult beverages and snacks. This kept the guides fully engaged on fishing and not preoccupied preparing some spoiled kids’ lunch on the water. We also packed along warming layers and rain/wind gear. Our cadre of guides consisted of a captain/primary guide (Luke) and deckhand/assistant guide (Ben). Both were very cordial, professional and entertaining with their banter and dialogue. The boat was a 33’, fiberglass, Suzuki twin-engine, center console workhorse that appeared to be specifically designed for guided fishing. The live-well was fully packed with ice to preserve our harvested fish. (3) large bean bags were provided to lounge on while underway. The boat had been fitted with modern electronics for navigation, communication and fishing. Very nice, reliable, comfortable and safe vessel. Upon boarding we got a quick brief and were given ample storage space for all the gear we brought. This was key as everything must be stowed while underway. Our initial boat ride was 24 miles off the shore of Clearwater, FL. The ride was teeming with wildlife. As the sun came up, the city skyline disappeared into the horizon until you couldn’t see anything but ocean in every direction. It was magnificent. From start to finish, our guides were very organized on the boat. Gear, tackle, cabin, live bait, ect. all well organized and serviceable. As situations changed, they communicated clearly what they needed from us. Personnel management to balance the vessel and alleviate excessive listing, along with keeping the deck open to allow freedom of movement was well executed. The equipment provided was better than adequate. All of the gear was well maintained and prepped for use. From rigging and baiting to removing the fish and cleaning/prep, the guides handled every aspect of the equipment very well. My wife wanted to accomplish (2) things. She wanted to harvest fish for our family dinner that night, and catch the biggest fish. Both were achieved. We caught A LOT of fish. We began fishing for large Amber Jack, however the guide identified that the bite was slow so we shifted gears to catch our daily harvest. We slammed a bunch of amazing fish. Porgy, Hogfish, Red Snapper, Grunt and others. We also caught some fun interesting fish like: Lizard fish, Remora (suction cup fish) and blow fish. Some were even reused as bait for the huge Amber Jack we caught later in the day. After catching plenty of fish for dinner, we moved back to our original location for another run at the large Amber Jack (AJ); an artificial reef of an intentionally sunken ship. Fishing in about 80’ of water, we quickly hooked into our first AJ. After locating the targeted species, the guides quickly switched gears in an epic display of professionalism and mastery of their craft in order to draw out the largest AJs. The communication between the guides and their actions was impeccable. One man on the rod, the other in full support. As the guide asked for a certain type/color of bait fish, the other pulled it from the livewell and began to toss the same baitfish overboard. When that particular bait was unsuccessful, they moved onto another type. This was system repeated several times until they found the right bait. It was really cool to see. Very fast, deliberate and accurate fishing. Once we had the right bait, it was like the AJs were “switched on”. Shortly we were pulling monster AJs in the boat. Huge fish the size of both of a grown man’s legs. After an exciting run of pulling in several huge AJs, we were down to our last baitfish. What I’m about to tell you just can’t really capture how awesome this last cast truly was. Now, earlier in the day we had an AJ get bit by a shark. We got it in the boat and it had some teeth marks and a gushing blood. It was crazy cool. However, this last cast set into motion a series of events that we’ll certainly remember for the rest of our lives. The line was cast and immediately hooked up. My wife was fighting this monster AJ (Yes, the biggest fish of the day) for several minutes. As the AJ was retrieved and became closer to the boat (so close we could see it) two HUGE sharks swam right to it taking a gigantic bite out of the AJ. When I say “bite” I mean a literal shark-head-shaped-bite. A cartoonish bite. Like, imagine what you would see on a Saturday morning cartoon. The bite was so clean and the exact round shape of the jaws of a shark. It was remarkable. As it got up to the boat, guide Ben (in an epic display of reluctant courage mind you) reached down and pulled up this AJ. Even the pictures just don’t do this experience justice. My wife, grabbed this fish holding it right in the bitten area like a savage. She was so excited! We were all excited. As we unhooked the AJ, the guides tossed it back out and a full-on shark feeding frenzy erupted. Multiple sharks attacking this AJ in just the most amazingly violent display. This was straight up, no BS, some National Geographic sh!t. When the AJ was pulled in, nothing remained but a huge sardine head. The Gulf gave us a show we’ll never forget and it was all due to the expertise, fast thinking and relentless efforts of our guides. As if our experience wasn’t enough, our ride back was filled with dolphins, sea turtles and a host of other incredible wildlife. The guides cleaned and prepared all of our harvested fish. They even labeled them by name so we knew what types they were. Our family loves the outdoors, and we have a saying when we venture out, “Don’t expect anything”. The fishing trip that day took everyone by surprise as to how incredible it unfolded. If you are looking for an amazing experience on the water, book with confidence because we had the experience of a lifetime.

    Yuliya H. with Brad D. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Nick tried his best but the fish just weren't biting. Nick was very nice and knowledgeable we just wish we caught more fish.

    Andy G. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Did a nice job trying to get us on fish. Hustled his rear off. Seemed a bit overwhelming having 4 on the boat who had never fished the flats before and several being relative novices for just 1 crew member. As a result about 1/3 the time 1-2 of our party weren’t fishing as we could have been. He was working hard though … much appreciated! Would highly recommend a 2nd crew member when there are inexperienced people it will be a tight fit though but think it would improve the experience. Tyson was nice, polite, knowledgeable and very patient thanks for the experience. Would highly recommend especially if you’ve done this type of fishing before. Thanks Tyson!

    Mike D. with Tyson W. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great guide, great guy, knows his stuff! We will 120% be back.

    Timothy W. with Tyson W. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great experience with Captain Nick! He was very accommodating to me and my 8 and 4 year old. He put us on fish right away, and most important of all he was safe! Great experience.

    Joel A. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome experience!! Alex and Tom where great!

    Brandi D. with Alex S. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Chris did a great job putting us on the fish. He toikbus to all the hot spots and gave us 4 hours of action packed fishing. Me and my son enjoyed fresh fish immediately after our trip. Great time!

    John C. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Thanks, Jonathan! It was a great experience for me (although seasickness played a part in our trip!!) and my grandson. He definitely wants to do it again with you next year and we already booked our condo so we'll see you next year. By the way, we cooked some of the fish and let's just say, DELISH!! Thanks again, Terry & Max

    Terry B. with Alex S. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great trip with captain nick. Despite the tough conditions we were able to find some fish, will book again.

    Max S. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Luke and Skye did a great job with us. We hope to do it again!! Well worth the money!!

    Dawn G. with Brad D. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had Captain Brett for our day of fishing. What an amazing day we had. We caught multiple fish we could keep and multiple fish we couldn’t keep. We had the experience of seeing multiple species that we didn’t catch. We saw a bull shark, a Goliath Grouper, a loggerhead turtle, and a manatee. We hooked in to a giant. Watching Brett and my brother work together to get this fish in was spectacular. The team work that it took as well as the skill. He was also great for those of us that were less experienced. He was so pleasant and kind while helping me change my techniques so I caught fish verses continuously just feeding the fish. He did great with my teenage son. Brett is a great communicator. We will go with Brett again.

    Shellie K. with Cameron F. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day fishing with Captain Nick Hughs! Trip started on time with nearly perfect weather. Boat was ready to go with all the bait and tackle we needed. Although the fish were hard to find, we did land a nice Snook. Nick worked his fanny off trying to get us on the fish. He’s a great Capt. and great host!

    Jan G. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

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