Old Tampa Bay Weather Forecast

Fishing reports straight from our guides in Old Tampa Bay

Ron Finger

Ron Finger with Fish Hawk Charters
Tierra Verde, Florida
Reported: 2 years ago

The Best Snapper Species Snappers are a fish family that need no introduction. Anglers from all over the world come to Florida to Target & catch them and love them for a variety of reasons. They’re usually easy to locate, are abundant in population, and provide a tasty treat. Just...
Ron Finger
Ron Finger with Fish Hawk Charters Tierra Verde, Florida Reported: 2 years ago
The Best Snapper Species
Snappers are a fish family that need no introduction. Anglers from all over the world come to Florida to Target & catch them and love them for a variety of reasons. They’re usually easy to locate, are abundant in population, and provide a tasty treat. Just
the names “Mangrove Snapper” and “Red Snapper” get every saltwater fisher’s heart racing.
But before you think about cooking one up for a tasty treat, we will get U locked & loaded to land a boat load full.
We are very fortunate on the West Coast Florida Gulf of Mexico with the Mangrove and the Red Snapper. But other common species include the Cubera Snapper, Lane Snapper, Mutton Snapper, and Yellowtail Snapper. There are actually a total of 125 Snapper species that inhabit the earth’s oceans!
Mangrove Snapper
These guys have a red or pinkish tint that covers their small, rough scales. And don’t be fooled by their little teeth – they’re seriously sharp! To know where to find these fish, take a hint from their name. You’ll find them in mangrove islands but you can also find them hanging around docks, piers, grass flats, and more.
Red Snapper
Next up we have one of the largest and most favorable Snapper species, the Red Snapper. This species puts up a tough fight in offshore waters and can weigh up to 50 pounds! They’re also among the best-tasting fish species, period. Unfortunately, though, they’ve been overfished in many places, so there are strict seasons in place, especially here in Florida.
Cubera Snapper
The Cubera Snapper is another large Snapper species, with the biggest recorded weighing 120 pounds. They can be harder to find and make more of a rare appearance. But that just makes it more exciting when you catch one! These fish are more commonly found in deeper wrecks and reefs.
Lane Snapper
Next up we have Lane Snapper. A step down from Cubera Snapper, these little guys reach maximum lengths of 20 inches. But what they lack in size, they make up in strength. Lane Snapper will try and take any bait you present, even if that means grabbing it before a larger fish can. They have a pretty mix of white, yellow, and pink to create a tropical-looking fish. And, as with most Snappers, their fillets are quite delicious as well.
Mutton Snapper
The Mutton Snapper almost looks like a mix of the Mangrove and Lane Snapper, except they’re quite a bit larger. These guys range in size and you catch smaller ones or large ones out on the reefs.
Yellowtail Snapper
Last on the list, we have Yellowtail Snapper. Another fish on the smaller side, these fish are cute and can be recognized easily by their yellow tails – hence their name. They heavily populate southern Florida, where anglers can constantly rip them up and head home with a small but delicious treat!
Snapper Fishing Rules and Regulations
Now that you’re aware of common Snapper species, let’s talk about rules and regulations. As mentioned, there are tons of Snapper species out there. That means there are different types of rules for different types of fish, including maximum and minimum lengths, bag limits, and more.
It’s very important that you know the difference in regulations for each species. We have You fully covered.
We have the Federal Pelagic Species's Permits & NOAA Reef Permits to legally land any/all these snapper Species including ARS - American Red Snapper during the Federal Regulation Season Gulf of Mexico June - Aug
We are Fully Credentialed to both Target & Deliver the Snapper Species you deserve & desire.
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Cubera Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Scroll for more
Jim Vanderbeck

Jim Vanderbeck
Clearwater, Florida
Reported: 2 years ago

Red snapper have been chewing the bottom out of the boat... Red grouper as well. Mahi are showing up strong in the gulf this year.
Jim Vanderbeck
Jim Vanderbeck Clearwater, Florida Reported: 2 years ago
Red snapper have been chewing the bottom out of the boat... Red grouper as well. Mahi are showing up strong in the gulf this year.
False Albacore, Mahi Mahi Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
False Albacore, Mahi Mahi Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
False Albacore, Mahi Mahi Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
False Albacore, Mahi Mahi Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
False Albacore, Mahi Mahi Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
False Albacore, Mahi Mahi Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
False Albacore, Mahi Mahi Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Scroll for more
Jim Vanderbeck

Jim Vanderbeck
Clearwater, Florida
Reported: 2 years ago

We have only been out for scallops in Pasco county but doing really well
Jim Vanderbeck
Jim Vanderbeck Clearwater, Florida Reported: 2 years ago
We have only been out for scallops in Pasco county but doing really well
Scallop Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Scroll for more
Ron Finger

Ron Finger with Fish Hawk Charters
Tierra Verde, Florida
Reported: 2 years ago

The Gulf of Mexico can be a challenge that we as a team welcome the opportunity w/day to day results vary as a shallow warm body water. Ideally, a 10-12 hr offshore fishing 50-70-90 miles out can increase the odds yet .... This approach may also hit or miss. Our...
Ron Finger
Ron Finger with Fish Hawk Charters Tierra Verde, Florida Reported: 2 years ago
The Gulf of Mexico can be a challenge that we as a team welcome the opportunity w/day to day results vary as a shallow warm body water. Ideally, a 10-12 hr offshore fishing 50-70-90 miles out can increase the odds yet .... This approach may also hit or miss.
Our
team's do their best every day to provide guests full efforts, positive attitude & attentive honorable respect to max out and size up the Pelagic Species's.
Since fishing is a lot like dating. It’s all about capitalizing on opportunity of the unknown. One of the first things that every fisherman learns is that fish have their own agenda which causes them to move over time from one place to another. This change can be seasonal, daily, caused by wind, changing water temperature, changing water clarity, the movement of bait they feed on, fishing techniques, or the instinct to spawn. We study these variables, unlike others & apply Master Licensed Angler skills w/technique.
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Scroll for more
Ray Culver

Ray Culver
Seminole, Florida
Reported: 2 years ago

Redfish schools have showed up been pretty consistent with larger redfish being caught with snook mixed in on each trip.
Ray Culver
Ray Culver Seminole, Florida Reported: 2 years ago
Redfish schools have showed up been pretty consistent with larger redfish being caught with snook mixed in on each trip.
Redfish Fishing in St. Petersburg, Florida
Redfish Fishing in St. Petersburg, Florida
Scroll for more

Phil Pegley
Ruskin, Florida
Reported: 2 years ago

Our trip to Key West to end the hot Florida summer was as advertised this year's experience was graced with beautiful weather conditions light winds in Clear waters is what Key West dreams are made of .we really had some excellent trips offshore with our main focus being on the...
Phil Pegley
Phil Pegley Ruskin, Florida Reported: 2 years ago
Our trip to Key West to end the hot Florida summer was as advertised this year's experience was graced with beautiful weather conditions light winds in Clear waters is what Key West dreams are made of .we really had some excellent trips offshore with our main focus being on the mahi mahi. Snapper fishing on the reef was outstanding, especially around the full a new moon. The lobster season in Key West has always been very good and this year was no different. We were able to get limit catches on numerous trips. We love to play with the tarpon while we are down there as well. They have a great tarpon, fish or a year-round. I hope you can join us next year from late July through August, so tight lines until next time Captain Phil
Lobster Fishing in Tampa, Florida
Lobster Fishing in Tampa, Florida
Lobster Fishing in Tampa, Florida
Lobster Fishing in Tampa, Florida
Lobster Fishing in Tampa, Florida
Lobster Fishing in Tampa, Florida
Scroll for more
Jim Vanderbeck

Jim Vanderbeck
Clearwater, Florida
Reported: 2 years ago

Offshore the gags, mangos, red snapper are chewing. Hogfish are starting to bite. Inshore redfish, trout, and black drum are heating up.
Jim Vanderbeck
Jim Vanderbeck Clearwater, Florida Reported: 2 years ago
Offshore the gags, mangos, red snapper are chewing. Hogfish are starting to bite. Inshore redfish, trout, and black drum are heating up.
Gag Grouper, Hogfish, Mangrove Snapper, Red Snapper, Scup Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper, Hogfish, Mangrove Snapper, Red Snapper, Scup Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper, Hogfish, Mangrove Snapper, Red Snapper, Scup Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Gag Grouper, Hogfish, Mangrove Snapper, Red Snapper, Scup Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Scroll for more
Jim Vanderbeck

Jim Vanderbeck
Clearwater, Florida
Reported: 2 years ago

Lots of red snapper and red grouper
Jim Vanderbeck
Jim Vanderbeck Clearwater, Florida Reported: 2 years ago
Lots of red snapper and red grouper
Red Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Red Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Red Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Red Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Red Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Red Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Red Snapper Fishing in Clearwater, Florida
Scroll for more

Need a Place to Stay?

What's Biting in Old Tampa Bay

Recent Old Tampa Bay Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Tyson is the real deal. He put me on fish quickly and if I want such a terrible angler I am sure I would’ve caught more lol. What an amazing experience and I would go with Titan again in a heartbeat. He was a wealth of knowledge and I’m thankful he was willing to show me the area. Unfortunately, he ruined me from ever wanting to freshwater fish after a great day in the shallows. I couldn’t have asked for a more chill captain that knew the waterways like the back of his hand. He has earned my business the next time I’m anywhere near Clearwater/Tampa. What a great day.

    William J. | August 16, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater Florida Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Wonderful time on the water. Captain George was extremely pleasant, knowledgeable and active in catching all types of inshore fish. Definitely would use again.

    Anthony P. | June 8, 2025

    Trip: St Petersburg Inshore Fishing!!!

  • ★★★★★
    Great guy and very knowledgeable about how to catch fish. Everyone in our party caught a fish, some of us got a few different varieties. All in all it was a good day 👍

    James W. | June 6, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater Florida Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Knows the area like the back of his hand , left still catching them!

    Michael N. | April 27, 2025

    Trip: Shallow Water Sightfishing

  • ★★★★★
    He was great in every way!!! On time, professional and he definitely put me on fish!!! Highly recommended!! Tom Trainer

    Thomas T. | September 7, 2024

    Trip: Shallow Water Sightfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Tyson is a great guide. Has all the local knowledge you expect from a guide. Very friendly and down to earth. He had us on top of tarpon most of the trip! Would go again.

    Cameron P. | August 2, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater Florida Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great morning on the water with Captain George. He put us over fish right away. First cast went into the cooler! He was very knowledgeable and courteous. We enjoyed our time on his boat!

    Lindy K. | July 9, 2024

    Trip: St Petersburg Inshore Fishing!!!

  • ★★★★★
    We had an absolutely amazing time with Captain George! We had several other fishermen passing through that were going on about how it was a “tough day” but not with Captain George!! He put us right on the fish! He was always aware of his surroundings, watching the schools of bait fish, and making sure we were in the most optimal spot. He was very knowledgeable about all of the species we caught throughout the day. We were having such a blast that we added an extra hour to onto our trip, which is when he put us on to the BIGGEST Spanish Mackerel I’ve ever seen!! Just to top it off, he was also very kind and caring. He never lost patience with me when he kept having to cast my pole into difficult spots, and he made sure to remind us to drink plenty of water and reapply sunscreen. At the end of the trip, as he was cleaning our fish, I began to overheat and he knew EXACTLY what to do. He stayed calm, let us stay for a while as I regained my strength, and even checked on me later on in the day. What an amazing experience, captain, and day!! 10/10! We will be fishing with Captain George when we are back this way, and will be referring all of our friends and family!

    Lauren H. | June 6, 2024

    Trip: St Petersburg Inshore Fishing!!!

  • ★★★★★
    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. | April 3, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater Florida Flats Fishing

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

    Timothy W. | April 2, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater Florida Flats Fishing

Top Fishing Trips in Old Tampa Bay

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Flats Fishing in Clearwater

Shallow Water Sightfishing

100% (25)
18 ft 1 - 4 People From $400
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing in Clearwater

Clearwater Florida Flats Fishing

100% (25)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats in St. Petersburg

St Petersburg Inshore Fishing!!!

100% (16)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $450
See all trips in Old Tampa Bay

Enter to Win a

$500 DAMN GOOD GIFT CARD

Gift Card

Sign up to win $500 towards ANY trip. Winners drawn monthly.

By subscribing, you agree to receive marketing communications from Captain Experiences. To opt-out, click the unsubscribe button at the bottom of our emails. Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions