Live Bait Fishing Charters In Florida

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Recently Booked Live Bait Fishing Charters In Florida

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Miami

Offshore Big Game Trip

100% (15)
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $117 / person

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Offshore Thrills

100% (12)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $175 / person
Damn Good

Goose, Invasive Species, Lake Fishing, Hunting Trip in Plantation

Iguana Hunt/Peacock Bass Combo With Retriever Dog

100% (10)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $199 / person

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Ocean Thrills With Captain Don

100% (12)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $175 / person

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Offshore Blitz: Half-Day Dash

100% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $174 / person
Damn Good

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Unforgettable Day Offshore

89% (9)
45 ft 1 - 6 People From $142 / person

Most Popular Types of Live Bait Fishing Trips in Florida

“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

Choose your trip by skill level

More Live Bait Fishing Charters In Florida

Head out for a half, 3/4 or full day Epic Fishing trip in the beautiful Florida Keys fishing for Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, Permit, Mangrove Snapper, Shark, Goliath Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, and much more! Captain Ron is an Islamorada Veteran with over 42 years of Experience chartering fishing trips in the Keys. Per his expert opinion, he recommends half-day 4-hour trips for novice anglers and families with kids. The 6-hour trip is more involved and gives you and your group more time to try different spots, and catch a variety of fish species that the Keys has to offer. And for those fishermen looking to catch everything, that one big fish, or try for the Backcountry slam, Captain Ron recommends the 8-hour full-day trip! No matter which trip you choose, Captain Ron will supply the fishing gear, and you should bring snack, drinks, a cap, sunblock, sunglasses and a camera. Come along and Enjoy!! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Epic Islamorada Inshore

100% (7)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $175 / person
Damn Good

Get out there and enjoy a fun, laid-back light tackle sportfishing trip on beautiful Tampa Bay. On this trip with Captain Wade, you'll be going after classic species including snook, redfish, seatrout, and more! There are multiple options for your adventure, so you can find what's best for you. On the three-hour charter, you'll get a great introduction to Tampa Bay and have time to catch multiple species of fish. This is ideal for visitors, first-timers, couples, seniors, or parents with children of all ages. Of course, you'll be treated to professional, family-friendly service and courteous expert instruction. Four hours provides a greater opportunity to cover a larger area of Tampa Bay and catch more fish. Many people find this amount of time ideal for entertaining friends, clientele or hosting bachelor parties. Have a blast, while competing to see who catches the biggest fish or most fish. Six hours is highly recommended to maximize your fishing adventure on Tampa Bay. This charter is ideal for avid anglers, and enthusiasts looking to hone their inshore angling skills. Experience fishing numerous grass flats, mangrove shorelines, oyster beds, creeks and back-bays. No matter the adventure you select, you'll have a great time fishing with Captain Wade! He provides premium spin, fly or plug fishing tackle such as G-Loomis, Penn, Sage and Tibor. Live-bait, flies, artificial lures, ice, bottled drinking water and sunscreen lotion is also provided. He will also fillet, bag, and ice your catch, should you decide to keep some fish for lunch or dinner! His 24' Sheaffer is an ideal boat for fishing this inshore environment and was refurbished in 2022 with brand-new electronics and motor. Get out there and enjoy all that Tampa Bay has to offer! Afishionado, "Always an Adventure." Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $100 / person

Capt. Scott is a USCG licensed 100 Ton Master Captain and has been fishing and diving the waters out of Ponce Inlet for over 25 years. Capt. Scott has competed in numerous offshore fishing tournaments, winning the Inaugural Fish Stock tournament in 2003 (formally the Striker). My father and grandfather first took me fishing when I was 5 years old. Over the years I have developed a passion and appreciation for the ocean and all the wonders it has to offer. I have caught monster fish, swam with wild dolphins, turtles, sharks and majestic Manta Rays, but most importantly I have experiences and memories that will never be forgotten. Allow me to share my passion with you, your family and friends and help you create the memories that will last a life time. ​ Captain Scott is the owner and operator. Captain Scott is a tournament-winning fisherman, who has been fishing these waters since 1989, and has his 100-ton USCG Captain’s License. Capt. Scott spends several days each week spear fishing, he can see firsthand where the fish are and what various bottom structures actually look like. He also maintains good relationships with other commercial fishermen and captains which provides an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and notes on recent fishing patterns. If you are serious about fishing or would like to introduce your family to a new experience, please give us a call. We look forward to helping you make the memories of a life time. I started fishing when I was 5 years old. In 1989 I moved to Central Florida to attend Stetson University, became a certified scuba diver, and have been diving and fishing out of Ponce Inlet ever since. Although I have landed plenty of monsters, I now find more enjoyment helping others experience the thrill of landing the fish of a lifetime. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Daytona Beach

Ledges And Reef Run

100% (6)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $117 / person

Captain Rich runs affordable back bay, inshore, and nearshore private fishing charters located on Fort Myers Beach, Florida. His operation is family-owned and operated by the native Irishman, himself, Capt Rich! His passion for fishing grew stronger than ever when he moved to Florida and began fishing the Gulf of Mexico. With over 20 years of knowledge and experience on Fort Myers Beach, Capt Rich set out to pursue his dream in sharing a love of fishing with others. Captain Rich prides himself on running fun charters for all ages as he offers a variety of fishing trips for four, six, and eight hour trips targeting Redfish, Snapper, Snook, Trout, Grouper, Shark and more! On this Fort Myers Beach Back Bay Fishing Charters, Captain Rich will show you how to hook into Redfish, Sheepshead, Snapper, Snook, Trout, Shark, and more! Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you also come across dolphins, manatees, manta rays, turtles, native waterbirds, and other exotic wildlife as you fish the mangroves of Southwest Florida. All charters are tailored for private parties so let Captain Rich know what species your looking to chase, and he will work to make your dreams a reality! ​ Captain Rich will provide all the poles, bait, and fun! All he asks is that you bring along whatever food and beverages you wish, as well as coolers and ice if you need them. In Fort Myers, FL, it is very important to protect your skin. We encourage all passengers to pack hats, sunglasses, and sun screen (SPF 50+). Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Myers Beach

Back Bay Trip – 27’ Carolina

100% (7)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $133 / person

Are you ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime? Come join Captain Steve or Captain Tucker on board their beautiful 34' Crusader 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' Crusader 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 Tucker have over 35 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

Crushing Clearwater Offshore

100% (4)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $147 / person
Damn Good

Looking a fun and enjoyable charter out of Clearwater, FL? This trip with Captain Brad is a Clearwater fishing charter at it’s finest! On this trip, you can enjoy some of the world's best bottom fishing, hooking up Groupers, Snappers, Hogfish, and many other species on light to heavy tackle. If you're looking for some thrilling fishing, you can also go after iconic Florida species such as Tarpon and Sharks, both of which are a blast to catch for any angler. You'll be out there on board Captain Brad's 33' Dusky center console. She's a super versatile vessel that's ideal for mixing it up and fishing inshore, nearshore, or offshore. Plus, with tons of amenities and a twin 300-HP Suzuki engines, she'll get you out there quickly and comfortably. Captain Brad will supply everything you need for an awesome day on the water, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. Book a trip with him and see what Clearwater has to offer! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Offshore Fishing

100% (6)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $125 / person
See All Live Bait Fishing Trips in Florida

Everything to Know About Booking a Florida live bait fishing charter

What are the best live bait fishing charters in Florida?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 816 live bait fishing trips in Florida, and the most popular trips in the area are Offshore Big Game Trip guided by Bryan, Offshore Thrills guided by Paul, and Iguana Hunt/Peacock Bass Combo with retriever dog guided by Michael.

Our guides in Florida are rated a 4.91 out of 5 based on 2417 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 Live Bait Fishing charter in Florida are Destin, Islamorada and Pompano Beach.

Looking for kid friendly live bait fishing guides in Florida? Check out our beginner and family friendly live bait fishing guides in Florida.

What types of live bait fishing charters are common in Florida?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for live bait fishing in Florida as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most commonly sought after species for live bait fishing in Florida are: 1. kingfish, 2. redfish, 3. mangrove snapper, and 4. mahi mahi.

How much do Florida live bait fishing charters cost?

for live bait fishing in Florida prices can range anywhere from an affordable $175 to $3,000 and up, but the average price for a half day trip for live bait fishing in Florida is $851. The average price for a full day trip for live bait fishing in Florida is $1,898.

What month is best for on a live bait fishing charter in Florida?

The most popular season to go on a live bait fishing charter in Florida is spring, and most anglers book their trips 21 days in advance.

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

If you’re thinking about a saltwater trip, you’re in luck! Our saltwater fishing tours in Florida don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. For freshwater trips, you’ll still need to purchase a license. See here for more information on fishing licenses, bag limits, and fishing season regulations in Florida. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    James was a great captain! He and his first mate were great with our kids and super helpful with always keeping bait on and casts in the best spots. He was very knowledgeable about the area, the different types of fish and how to spot the right areas. We would highly recommend taking a day trip with James.

    Erica L. with James G. of Fort Myers, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Greg was awesome !!! We had a great time !!

    Clint B. with Greg K. of Apalachicola, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Damn great time on the water with Ben. He was willing to quickly adjust to last minute changes (remember, when you are replying to messages from Captain Experiences they might not get to the guide you are using through them). Ben got us into multiple species of fish using various methods of angling. When our time was up, we had a few "keepers" that Ben filleted up for us. It was a perfect day on the water. Thanks for the great time Ben and, more importantly, thank you for your service to our country! DO NOT HESITATE to book a trip with Ben.

    Lapene M. with Ben T. of Tavernier, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Alex was an amazing captain! We hit up a couple different spots landing some sheep head, red fish, and even a blowfish and bull shark!! 10/10 would recommend he was awesome with our 9 year old too!!

    Erin W. with Alex P. of Pensacola, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Ariel is a fantastic fishing guide, captain ariel is very nice and knowledgeable, the kids had fun and caught few nice fish , will definitely come back next year

    Maan B. with Ariel A. of Chokoloskee, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Five stars warranted. Skilled and personable captain with nice boat and gear, plus the requisite “local knowledge.” Did a half day with trip tailored by the captain to match our specific inshore interests and to maximize fishing time. Had continuous action, and it was fun to see my daughter catch a nice mixed bag of fish species she hadn’t seen. Highly recommend Captain Matt.

    Randy S. with Matt B. of New Smyrna Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Good trip; Dustin did great in conditions that were not ideal!!

    Michael W. with Dustin K. of Panama City Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. John was great with my 10 yr old and 8 yr old. Tried trolling and when that wasn’t working, quickly switched to another strategy and got them on fish. Would highly recommend, especially if fishing with kids! They had a blast.

    Jacob C. with Terry M. of Panama City Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Really enjoyed our fishing with Edwin. He did a great job! I really had fun and caught fish all day long.

    Kurt M. with Edwin E. of Naples, 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

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Kevin did an awesome job. Although the conditions were difficult we still caught a meal to take home with us. He was very patient with the kids and kept things entertaining and informative. Had a great time!

    Kurt G. with Kevin T. of Crystal River, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James is an outstanding guide. He is knowledgable and professional. He is passionate about fishing and conservation. He had us catching fish and showed us an abundance of wildlife. A highly competent Captain (and crew). Thanks Joe. 10/10 we will be booking again!

    Karen L. with James G. of Fort Myers, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    So to put it simply Misty saved the day! We almost didn't make it because of a flat tire. Misty wouldn't think of us missing a day fishing. She picked us up, brought us to her boat with her Captain Alex. Who was incredible with my father. An older man who he treated with great respect and made sure that this was the fishing trip on a lifetime. He was knowledgeable funny and gracious. We actually got tired from catching so many fish. Did I mention their boat? There are 34" SeaVee gave me boat envy. I can't say enough about these two people who went above and beyond to make sure that we had a fantastic day. At the end of the day, Misty took us back to her car, which by now it was fixed. Because of this wonderful person we didn't miss a thing. Thank you.!

    Reg T. with Misty W. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome time! I took my son and nephew (both 16) and we caught 44 fish in 4 hours! Captain Brian was entertaining , encouraging, and enthusiastic about us catching fish. I would 100% book again!

    David C. with Brian L. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Everything was top notch, Great communication from start to finish. Capt and 1 Mate were both professional and knowledgeable and put me on fish. Only down side was when I lost a Sailfish 🙁 but landed this nice Barracuda off a Tripple set of Barracudas 🤷‍♂️😂

    John C. with Thomas D. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We didn’t actually catch anything during the trip, but it was great nonetheless.

    Breyhauna J. with Taylor S. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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

    Brandi D. with Alex S. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time , enough action . Bad weather, Kevin did a great job

    Kenneth K. with Kevin T. of Crystal River, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a fantastic trip with Captain John in July of 2023. Went for a morning trip on our honeymoon, caught tons of fish, had a lot of fun. John and his first mate were very competent, personable, and provided an excellent experience. The boat was well outfitted, John knew several spots with lots of fish, and gave us more time than we'd paid for. Great experience, will absolutely book again next time we're in the keys.

    Clare D. with John G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip for my son and me with Jonathan (Jonny). He is a great captain and fishing guide! Looking forward to future trips!

    Gary W. with Jonathan F. of Pompano Beach, Florida

The Best Places to Fish in Florida

How are fishing conditions in Florida?

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See All Live Bait Fishing Trips in Florida