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Damn Good Black Drum Fishing Charters In Clearwater

Check real-time availability on Clearwater black drum fishing trips. Online booking | 4.83 / 5 stars | Guides from $450

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Recently Booked Black Drum Fishing Charters Near Clearwater, Fl

Fishing in Clearwater

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Fisherman's Choice Trip

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22 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Clearwater

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 St. Petersburg

Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter near Clearwater

St Petersburg Inshore Fishing!!!

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $425
Fishing in Hudson

Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Nature Coast Inshore Trip

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Tampa

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

97% (36)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Tarpon Springs

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Tarpon Springs Intercoastal Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $600

Most Popular Types of Black Drum Trips in Clearwater

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More Black Drum Fishing Charters Near Clearwater, Fl

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
Fishing in Tampa
Fishing in Tampa
trip description for Bowfishing the Tampa Bay in Tampa

If you’re ready to get hooked on Bowfishing in Tampa Bay, look no further. Having logged many hours on these tides, Captain Mike can put you on the fish. Species like Sheepshead, Flounder, Black Drum, Mangrove Snapper, Ray, Spadefish, Mojarra, Tilapia, and more are in the cards, depending on conditions. Captain Mike is dedicated to providing you with a memory you will not forget! He prides himself on giving an experience that will want you to come back again. Trips typically last 4 hours but Captain Mike is more concerned with you enjoying yourself than getting you back to the dock. If that means staying on the water longer if you wish Captain Mike is happy to do so at no extra charge. Looking to get the whole family outdoors? Kids are absolutely welcome! If you don’t have a child-sized life vest of your own, be sure to ask if there’s one on board. And, you can’t go wrong with snacks so that nobody gets cranky on an empty stomach! Your vessel for the day is a 22’ Alweld center console that can carry up to 6 passengers. It has all the essentials no fishing machine can run without. You’ll find lightweight carbon fiber Vader Bows with AMS bottle reels waiting for you. The charter boat covers your fishing license, just show up ready for a good time! Some fish have special regulations, including when you can keep them. Simply ask and your captain can tell you more. It’s never a bad idea to come prepared. Captain Mike will monitor the weather often but feel free to bring extra clothes or whatever will keep you comfortable while out as the weather on the bay changes often. There will be some drinks on offer, feel free to bring your own favorites a cooler will be provided to keep them cold. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, just be sure to avoid hard liquor as well as glass bottles for safety reasons. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Bowfishing The Tampa Bay

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Ruskin
Fishing in Ruskin
Fishing in Ruskin
trip description for Inshore Fishing Slam in Ruskin

Head out with Captain Christopher for a half, 3/4, or full day of fishing around the inshore waters and flats of Southshore Tampa Bay. Captain Christopher will put you where you need to be to put Redfish, Trout, Tarpon, and Snook on the line. You will mostly use light tackle and spinning techniques to target your fish. Captain Christopher operates out of a custom built 21’ Clearwater 2000CC bay boat. This modern vessel allows for a comfortable drift through the Tampa Bay flats. There’s a lot of fishing space and a shaded T-top for hot summer days. The boat also has a Bluetooth stereo, so feel free to bring your favorite playlist! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Inshore Fishing Slam

97% (36)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Hudson
Fishing in Hudson
Fishing in Hudson
trip description for Inshore Fishing Charter in Hudson

Join Captain Brian on an inshore fishing adventure off Hudson Beach, FL! Whether you're a beginner or an expert angler, Captain Brian is dedicated to exceeding your expectations. On tis trip, you can expect to chase a variety of inshore fish species such as Snook, Redfish, Black Drum, and Sea Trout. If you're looking to venture a little deeper, you can also troll or bottom fish for Mackerel and Grouper. In the summer months, Tarpon also migrate through the waters off Hudson. Just let Captain Brian know which species you'd like to target and he'll make it happen! Captain Brian's 24' Tidewater is equipped with all the gear you'll need for a successful day on the water, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait. All you need to bring is your favorite snacks and drinks, sun protection, and camera to capture your memories! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Inshore Fishing Charter

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Riverview
Fishing in Riverview
Fishing in Riverview
trip description for Full Day Tampa Bay Adventure in Riverview

Join Captain Matt and enjoy a beautiful morning and early afternoon of fishing in Tampa Bay, Florida! No matter your age or skill level, there’s a fish out there with your name on it. Captain Matt knows just where the fish bite, so be sure to listen to his advice. For these 6-hour trips, you’ll be testing your casting accuracy as you target Cobia, Gag Grouper, Goliath Grouper, Redfish, Mangrove Snapper, Tarpon, Tripletail, and many more species of fish. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Matt’s 23-foot bay boat powered by a 200 HP Yamaha engine. This boat is equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and Ice Box. It can accommodate 4 anglers. Don’t forget to bring food for the day (Captain Matt will have bottled waters on board) as well as a cooler with ice to take home your day’s catch. Captain Matt will provide all rods, reels, and tackle, but feel free to bring your own. Captain Matt catches live bait before the start of each day, as it’s most effective in these waters, so don’t worry about bait! Captain Matt will also clean and fillet your fish at the end of each trip. Get ready for an eventful day on the water with Captain Matt! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Full Day Tampa Bay Adventure

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $900
Fishing in Belleair Bluffs
Fishing in Belleair Bluffs
Fishing in Belleair Bluffs
trip description for Sunny Fishing on Tampa Bay in Belleair Bluffs

Head out with Captain Tyler for an awesome inshore experience fishing around Tampa Bay and Clearwater Florida. This area has an abundance of different fish species and several different ways to target them. You have Snook, Redfish, Trout, Tarpon, Pompano, Permit, Cobia, and Black Drum just to name a few, and Captain Tyler knows how to catch 'em all! To hook into these fish, you will mostly be sight fishing the inshore bays, flats, and even backcountry river systems around the Clearwater-St. Pete area. There is nothing more rewarding than spotting your quarry, stalking your quarry, and making a perfect cast onto an unsuspecting fish. The rush of the hook set after that is an experience you won't soon forget. Captain Tyler is especially adept at teaching new fishermen these techniques so whether you're a seasoned veteran looking for your next trophy or a beginner looking to learn the ropes, Captain Tyler will work his hardest to make sure you have the best possible experience out on the water! Everything for your trip is included, but you're more than welcome to bring any of your own gear if you like. Otherwise, alls you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, and Captain Tyler will take care of the rest! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Sunny Fishing On Tampa Bay

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Riverview
Fishing in Riverview
Fishing in Riverview
trip description for Half Day Trip in Riverview

Join Captain Matt and enjoy a beautiful morning of fishing in Tampa Bay, Florida! No matter your age or skill level, there’s a fish out there with your name on it. For these 4-hour trips, you’ll be testing your casting accuracy as you target Cobia, Gag Grouper, Goliath Grouper, Redfish, Mangrove Snapper, Tarpon, Tripletail, and many more species of fish. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Matt’s 23-foot bay boat powered by a 200 HP Yamaha engine. This boat is equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and Ice Box. It can accommodate 4 anglers. Don’t forget to bring food for the day (Captain Matt will have bottled waters on board) as well as a cooler with ice to take home your day’s catch. Captain Matt will provide all rods, reels, and tackle, but feel free to bring your own. Captain Matt catches live bait before the start of each day, as it’s most effective in these waters, so don’t worry about bait! Captain Matt will also clean and fillet your fish at the end of each trip. Get ready for an unforgettable day on the water with Captain Matt! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Half Day Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $300
See All Black Drum Trips in Clearwater

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Everything to Know About Booking a Clearwater black drum fishing charter

What are the best black drum fishing charters in Clearwater?

Why should I book a black drum fishing charter in Clearwater with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 14 black drum trips in Clearwater, and the most popular trips in the area are Clearwater Classic guided by William and Fisherman's Choice Trip guided by Garrett.

Our guides in Clearwater are rated a 4.83 out of 5 based on 3311 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 black drum guides / fishing lessons in Clearwater? Check out our beginner and family friendly black drum guides in Clearwater.

What types of black drum fishing charters are common in Clearwater?

Inshore fishing is the most popular type of fishing for black drum in Clearwater as well as flats fishing, nearshore fishing, and river fishing.

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

How much do Clearwater black drum fishing charters cost?

Prices for black drum in Clearwater can range anywhere from about $450 to $950, but the average price for a half day trip for black drum in Clearwater is $543. The average price for a full day trip for black drum in Clearwater is $861.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for black drum fishing in Clearwater?

The most popular season for black drum fishing in Clearwater is spring, and most anglers book their trips 12 days in advance.

Do I need a Clearwater fishing license for black drum and what are the bag limits for black drum in Clearwater?

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

What is black drum fishing in Clearwater all about?

Clearwater, Florida, offers anglers the opportunity to target black drum, a prized species known for its impressive size and hard-fighting nature. These fish, named for the deep, drumming sound they produce during spawning, can be found in the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico year-round. Black drum inhabit a variety of habitats, including bays, estuaries, and nearshore reefs, where they feed on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.

Fishing for black drum in Clearwater typically involves bottom fishing techniques, where anglers use medium to heavy tackle and drop bait rigs baited with natural baits such as shrimp, crabs, or clams. Anglers often target areas with sandy or muddy bottoms near structure such as docks, bridges, or submerged vegetation, where black drum are known to congregate. Patience is key as anglers wait for the telltale taps and tugs that indicate a drum has taken the bait before setting the hook.

Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for black drum fishing in Clearwater, as these months coincide with the peak of their spawning activity and increased feeding behavior. However, black drum can be caught year-round in the coastal waters off Clearwater, providing anglers with ample opportunities for a rewarding fishing experience. Whether fishing from shore or a boat, targeting black drum in Clearwater promises exciting action and the chance to land one of these impressive fish.

What are the most popular months to fish for black drum in Clearwater?

In Clearwater, Florida, the fishing seasons for black drum are influenced by a variety of factors including water temperature, spawning behavior, and baitfish movements. While black drum can be found in the waters off Clearwater year-round, certain seasons offer more favorable conditions for targeting these prized fish. Spring and fall are typically considered prime seasons for black drum fishing in Clearwater, as these periods coincide with increased activity and feeding behavior.

During the spring months, as the waters off Clearwater begin to warm up, black drum become more active in their feeding habits and may move into shallower waters to spawn. This period also coincides with the influx of baitfish and crustaceans into the area, providing ample food sources for hungry black drum. Anglers targeting black drum during the spring season can expect productive fishing as these fish feed voraciously in preparation for spawning.

In the fall, as water temperatures begin to cool, black drum fishing in Clearwater remains excellent as these fish continue to feed heavily in preparation for the winter months ahead. Cooler water temperatures also tend to concentrate black drum in certain areas, making them easier to locate for anglers. Whether fishing from shore or a boat, targeting black drum during the spring and fall seasons in Clearwater offers anglers the opportunity to enjoy exciting action and bring home a prized catch.

What techniques are popular for catching black drum in Clearwater?

In Clearwater, Florida, anglers have developed various effective techniques for targeting black drum, a prized species known for its impressive size and hard-fighting nature. One popular method for catching black drum is bottom fishing, which involves using medium to heavy tackle and dropping baited rigs to the ocean floor. Anglers typically use natural baits such as shrimp, crabs, or clams, which are irresistible to black drum. Patience is key as anglers wait for the telltale taps and tugs that indicate a drum has taken the bait before setting the hook.

Another effective technique for black drum fishing in Clearwater is fishing near structure such as docks, bridges, or submerged vegetation. Black drum are known to congregate around these areas, where they feed on crustaceans and small fish. Anglers can use live or dead bait presented near the bottom to entice strikes from black drum. Using depth finders and fish finders can help anglers identify promising spots and adjust their presentation accordingly for optimal results.

Drifting or slow trolling can also be effective techniques for targeting black drum in Clearwater, particularly in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms where these fish are known to feed. Anglers can drift with the current while deploying baited rigs or jigs, covering a larger area of water to locate schools of feeding drum. This method allows anglers to explore different depths and bottom structures to find where the black drum are actively feeding. Regardless of the technique employed, mastering these black drum fishing techniques in Clearwater can lead to rewarding catches and memorable fishing experiences.

What other species are popular in Clearwater?

Aside from black drum, Clearwater, Florida, offers anglers a diverse range of other fish species to target, ensuring an exciting and varied fishing experience. One popular species among anglers is snook, known for their aggressive strikes and challenging fights. These elusive predators can be found prowling the mangrove-lined shorelines, bridges, and estuaries throughout the area, providing anglers with thrilling opportunities for sight fishing and casting.

Redfish are another sought-after species abundant in the waters off Clearwater. These hard-fighting fish can be found in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and along grassy shorelines, often in the company of spotted sea trout, mangrove snapper, and sheepshead. Anglers targeting redfish can employ a variety of techniques, including casting lures or live bait to sighted fish or fishing with cut bait near structure.

For those seeking bigger thrills, Clearwater also offers opportunities to target pelagic species such as king mackerel and mahi-mahi. These fast-swimming fish can be found offshore in the warmer months, where they patrol the Gulf Stream in search of baitfish. Trolling with rigged baits or lures is a popular technique for targeting pelagic species, allowing anglers to cover large areas of water and locate actively feeding fish. Whether pursuing snook, redfish, pelagic species, or any number of other fish species, Clearwater promises an unforgettable fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Ike is a first class person very polite very nice guy me and my son had a great time will do it again when we come back.

    Chris H. with Ike C. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with George H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    My husband and I had an amazing bowfishing trip with Mike. He was extremely nice, helpful, and informative.. and he worked hard to get us on fish. We will definitely book with him again!

    Tara L. with Mike L. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip and great captain! Ike is the best!

    Justin C. with Ike C. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with George H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    It was enjoyable

    Keith M. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip. Capt Tyler did a great job on finding fish for us to catch. Would definitely go with him again.

    Craig B. with Tyler B. of Belleair Bluffs, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great first experience with Captain Tyler. We had great fishing with tough conditions !!

    Scott O. with Tyler B. of Belleair Bluffs, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip, he put me on fish the whole trip. Caught redfish, snook, Jack crevalle, trout and a 4 ft 60 lb bull shark

    Matt D. with Matt Y. of Riverview, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome fun trip. Captain Tyler knows his stuff. Highly recommend.

    Erinn . with Tyler B. of Belleair Bluffs, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Chris was excellent. Great knowledge nice boat had a fantastic time. Thank you so much.

    Brian C. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    It was a blast! Chris knew where the fish were biting. And I caught my first hammerhead shark! Overall 10/10!

    Laura K. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Bad weather plagued our trip. A big fog bank rolled in on us. Caught a few but it could have been better. I saw no other boats catching fish either. Chris knows his stuff and I'm booking a Tarpon trip with him next month.

    Walter R. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Christopher was an excellent captain and fishing guide who gave me and my buddy a memorable trip across tampa bay! We caught many shark, and other fish at our stops. If you’re anywhere near the Tampa area it’s worth the drive and Captain Christopher will make the experience a life long memory!

    Julian K. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain William was very helpful and knowledgeable of the waters. He was very patient with our children answering a lot of questions and instructing them on how to properly fish.

    Rebecca B. with William P. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Brian was an amazing Captain. Put us on fish from the very beginning. Very helpful with fishing tips. Very professional. Would definitely recommend him to anyone looking to catch fish and have a fun trip

    Daniel G. with Brian H. of Hudson, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a Great Time. The Captain was a very nice guy made the experience worthwhile.

    Johnny W. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    What a great experience! I booked this trip for my husband, my son (12), and myself. Captin Chris was very knowledgeable, had some great spots for us to fish and my son had a shark on in the first 5 minutes of our fishing trip. We all had a great time, caught shark, snook, catfish, and a stingray. Cap. Chris told us about “The Friendly Fisherman” restaurant that wasn’t too far, we took our fish there and had a feast. We will book with Captain Chris on our next visit to Tampa

    Erika D. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Chris was awesome we did an inshore fishing trip and caught a bunch of hammer head sharks and catfish!! Lots of fun, definitely recommend, really nice guy.

    Connor G. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Chris was great. He showed up on time answered any questions my wife and I had before the trip. I caught my first shark and snook with him as our captain. He shared good stories and we had a great time.

    Peng Y. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

What's biting in Clearwater?

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