Damn Good Black Drum Fishing Charters In Clearwater

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Clearwater black drum fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Black Drum Fishing Charters In Clearwater, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Classic

100% (2)
21 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, Flats Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Fly Fishing / Artificial

100% (2)
17 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Fisherman's Choice Trip

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Sunny Fishing On Tampa Bay

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 2 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, Nearshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Dusky Flats Fishing

100% (1)
20 ft 1 - 12 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Inshore Fishing Charter

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $500

Top Types of Black Drum Trips in Clearwater

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

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Target Species in Clearwater

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
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More Black Drum Fishing Charters In Clearwater, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Half Day Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $300
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

97% (39)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Clearwater

FLY FISHING FOR REDS, SNOOK, TARPON!

NEW
18 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Tampa Bowfishing

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Tampa Half Day Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
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 Charter near Clearwater

Bowfishing The Tampa Bay

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
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 18 black drum trips in Clearwater, and the most popular trips in the area are Fly Fishing / Artificial guided by Nick, Fisherman's Choice Trip guided by Garrett, and Clearwater Classic guided by William.

Our guides in Clearwater are rated a 4.84 out of 5 based on 3806 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are 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 artificial lure fishing but bottom fishing and sight casting 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 $1,400, but the average price for a half day trip for black drum in Clearwater is $631. The average price for a full day trip for black drum in Clearwater is $1,054.

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 13 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

  • ★★★★★
    Was very pleased with the experience. We caught about 40 fish overall and he took us to several spots. Easy to talk with and excellent communication.

    Dave C. | November 26, 2024

    Trip: Dusky Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time bowfishing with Captain Mike this past weekend. My 10 year old son and I had a blast learning how to fish with a bow, and translating shooting at paper targets into shooting at moving fish. The Bay was alive with marine life and it was really cool to be out there together. There was a small technical issue that came up early in the trip, but Captain Mike used his experience to quickly resolve it and get us back out to where the fish were jumping. We are definitely going to book with him again!

    Ryan M. | November 19, 2024

    Trip: Bowfishing the Tampa Bay

  • ★★★★★
    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. | July 16, 2024

    Trip: Tampa Bowfishing

  • ★★★★★
    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!!!

  • ★★★★★
    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. | June 17, 2024

    Trip: Bowfishing the Tampa Bay

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

    Justin C. | June 13, 2024

    Trip: Tampa Bowfishing

  • ★★★★★
    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!!!

  • ★★★★★
    It was enjoyable

    Keith M. | December 31, 2023

    Trip: Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

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

    Craig B. | December 22, 2023

    Trip: Sunny Fishing on Tampa Bay

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

    Scott O. | December 19, 2023

    Trip: Sunny Fishing on Tampa Bay

  • ★★★★★
    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. | November 26, 2023

    Trip: Tampa Half Day Trip

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

    Erinn S. | September 18, 2023

    Trip: Sunny Fishing on Tampa Bay

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

    Brian C. | May 11, 2023

    Trip: Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

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

    Laura K. | April 23, 2023

    Trip: Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

  • ★★★★★
    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. | April 15, 2023

    Trip: Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

  • ★★★★★
    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. | April 6, 2023

    Trip: Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

  • ★★★★★
    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. | April 6, 2023

    Trip: Clearwater Classic

  • ★★★★★
    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. | April 5, 2023

    Trip: Inshore Fishing Charter

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

    Johnny W. | March 23, 2023

    Trip: Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

  • ★★★★★
    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. | March 14, 2023

    Trip: Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

What's biting in Clearwater?

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