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Nearshore Fishing Charters In Florida

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Recently Booked Nearshore Fishing Charters In Florida

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Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

100% (6)
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Half Day Trip - 44' Custom

100% (17)
44 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
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Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Offshore Blitz: Half-Day Dash

100% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$
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Fishing in Fort Lauderdale

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Unforgettable Day Offshore

92% (12)
45 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Stock Island

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stock Island

Key West Nearshore/Offshore Trip

100% (3)
63 ft 1 - 12 People $$$
Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Offshore Fishing

100% (6)
33 ft 1 - 6 People $$

Most Popular Types of Nearshore Trips in Florida

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More Nearshore Fishing Charters In Florida

Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Crushing Clearwater Offshore in Clearwater

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 $$$
Fishing in Fort Myers Beach
Fishing in Fort Myers Beach
Fishing in Fort Myers Beach
trip description for Back Bay Trip – 27’ Carolina in Fort Myers Beach

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% (8)
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$
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Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
trip description for Epic Islamorada Inshore in Islamorada

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 $$
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Fishing in Fort Myers
Fishing in Fort Myers
Fishing in Fort Myers
trip description for Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip in Fort Myers

These trips are nearshore/inshore with a maximum distance offshore of 9 miles. Most fishing will be with live bait for snook, sea trout, redfish, tarpon, jack crevalle, snapper, grouper, and permit. Fishing licenses are included with trip as well as all tackle necessary. Water and ice will also be included, as well as the fileting of fish. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Myers

Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 5 People $$
Fishing in Marathon
Fishing in Marathon
Fishing in Marathon
trip description for Marathon Premier Fishing in Marathon

Come and explore a range of exciting fishing with Captain Brad. Based out of Marathon, FL you’ll have access to several kinds of fishing. Flats, reefs, and wrecks in the close offshore waters are just on your doorstep. The fishing is hot year-round, and Captain Brad carried with him a lifetime’s experience on the waters. On these shorter trips will see you head to the nearshore reefs and wrecks to reel yellowtail, mangrove, and mutton snapper, along with grouper, mackerel, and barracuda. With its beautiful coral reefs, Marathon is directly in the middle of 170 mile long natural reef. You can also motor a little further offshore to troll for some delicious species like Spanish and King Mackerel and maybe even a Blackfin Tuna! Note: for these shorter trips it's usually either-or. Whatever you choose, head out to sea aboard a 40’ D&A Custom sportisher. A versatile vessel, she’s suited to all kinds of fishing. While 4 people can fish at once, there’s plenty of space for 2 more to relax and enjoy the tropical scenery. Bring your own drinks and snacks to put in the captain’s cooler – just also bring an ice box for your catch. Powered by twin 480 HP Cummins engines, and with the onboard fishfinder and GPS, you’ll hit the sweet spots right away. The Florida Keys are a beautiful location to catch some of the finest fish in the world, so get out there with Captain Brad for the trip of a lifetime! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Marathon

Marathon Premier Fishing

100% (8)
40 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Fishing Slam in Key West

Captain Mark will guide you on a thrilling adventure through the waters of Key West, Florida! You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Mark’s 36-foot sportfisher, which is equipped with two 750 HP engines that will get you out to your destination quickly and seamlessly. She can accommodate up to 6 adventurous anglers and has a GPS, fishfinder, live bait well, and ice box. On this 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12-hour trip, you’ll be targeting a wide variety of species, including Billfish, like White Marlin and Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Mutton Snapper, and Amberjack. You might also catch a few sharks. Prepare yourself to feel the intense power of this apex predator as you reel it in. The longer you go, the farther out you can travel, and the farther out you travel, the bigger the fish get! Don’t forget to bring a cooler to take home your day’s catch, food and drinks for the day (no glass), sunscreen, and a hat. Captain Mark will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and fishing licenses. Let go of your daily responsibilities and have some fun fishing with Captain Mark! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Fishing Slam

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
See All Nearshore Trips in Florida

Everything to Know About Booking a Florida nearshore fishing charter

What are the best nearshore fishing charters in Florida?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 525 nearshore trips in Florida, and the most popular trips in the area are Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip guided by Gage, Half Day Trip - 44' Custom guided by Harold, and Offshore Blitz: Half-Day Dash guided by Jake.

Our guides in Florida are rated a 4.91 out of 5 based on 2529 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 Nearshore charter in Florida are Destin, Key West and Islamorada.

Looking for kid friendly nearshore guides / fishing lessons in Florida? Check out our beginner and family friendly nearshore guides in Florida.

What types of nearshore fishing charters are common in Florida?

The most commonly sought after species for nearshore Fishing are: 1. kingfish, 2. gag grouper, 3. mangrove snapper, and 4. mahi mahi.

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

How much do Florida nearshore fishing charters cost?

for nearshore fishing in Florida prices can range anywhere from an affordable $69 to $3,000 and up, but the average price for a half day trip for nearshore fishing in Florida is $1,073. The average price for a full day trip for nearshore fishing in Florida is $2,087.

What month is best for nearshore fishing in Florida?

The most popular season for nearshore fishing in Florida is spring, and most anglers book their trips 10 days in advance.

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

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Florida don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Florida.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    We were able to schedule a bow fishing trip with captain Bobby. We had an absolutely amazing experience with him. Ended up shooting a ton of fish and saw them constantly. Bobby was knowledgeable and very personable. I would recommend booking with Bobby, we will next time we’re in the area.

    Taylor A. with Randy D. of Kissimmee, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fishing with Captain Greg was great fun. Who knew redfish got that big! Thanks for the memories!

    Kay T. with Greg G. of Panama City, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day fishing with Mike and Marcus. They were very friendly and worked hard to make sure we had a great time! Highly recommend.

    Sarah S. with Mike M. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fishing with Captain Randy was a blast caught plenty of bonefish and some sharks Randy is a cool dude really enjoyed my trip

    Rick B. with Randy S. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a terrific day with Pete!

    Kipp H. with Pete R. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great Captain, great First Mate, caught a sailfish, multiple mahi mahi, Bonita, kingfish, and a giant Jack Cravel. Couldn’t have been better

    Christopher M. with Mike M. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    I could not have asked for a better outfit to take our family fishing. Captain Keith took us to the best spots and we caught something each time. Pat and Captain Keith were amazing with our diversity of age and skill level. Thank you again.

    Terry H. with Keith N. of Madeira Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent day, excellent fishing and Brandon couldn’t have been a better guide!

    Vic T. with Brandon S. of Ramrod Key, 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

  • ★★★★★
    Had a most excellent time. We were scheduled for an offshore trip but wind and waves caused us to cancel this trip. However, we rescheduled for later in the day for a tarpon fishing excursion. This was a blast ! We saw sharks up close and landed several yellow jacks which gave us a good fight before being returned to the water. After trying and trying (never give up) we snagged a good sized tarpon. After a good fight which included multiple boat maneuvers it was brought to the side of the boat before being cut loose to fight another day. We thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with the captain and first mate. Both were very attentive to us, making sure that our hooks were still baited and that we had all the help required for landing and documenting our catches before returning them to the water. A great time was had by all! The boat was immaculate and we had no issues if any sort.

    Lynn E. with Steve S. of Marathon, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fun trip I hope to book with Brice again

    Glen K. with Chris W. of Eastpoint, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an outstanding fishing trip with Captain Jack, and caught our target species at the first location of the day. In my experience this is rare. The snook were big, hungry, and plentiful. My son and his friend were astounded by the 30 inch snook's ability to fight. We had a great time, and I highly recommend Jack.

    Paul T. with Jack S. of Fort Myers, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great full day trip with Captain Chris. Chris really helped my wife with his patience and encouragement fight big fish in deep water and use lighter tackle at the shallower wreck. She landed nice yellowtail, yellow jack, mackerel and amberjack. Chris worked hard all day keeping us in fish and rigged as the shark tax was high though the morning. At the end of the day we got great local restaurant recommendations and tips on cooking our catch. Loved the boat playlist! Highly recommend and hope to come back to fish with Chris again.

    John K. with Chris P. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip. Would recommend to anyone.

    Ryan P. with Srbo T. of Daytona Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Scott was absolutely a pleasure to go off shore with. Very nice boat, very good with the kids, and very understanding when we had to cut the trip short. I will definitely look forward to going out again.

    Brian S. with Scott H. of Daytona Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Russel was a great Captain and our whole family had a fantastic time.

    James R. with Russell F. of Panama City, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    I had a great experience with Andre. He is very attentive and helpful. He put me on some great fish. Thanks again Andre

    Glenn S. with Andre L. of Sanibel, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great day on the water with an awesome captain. Immaculate boat and equipment. We didn’t land any tarpan but we hooked a few and saw many. Would highly recommend this charter!

    Greg D. with Lou S. of Bokeelia, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Went out full day hunting iguana and fishing for peacock bass with 3 buddies and captain Mike was awesome he got us onto the fish on the fist cast caught a bunch of different species as well as the targeted fish. We also got a ton of iguanas and my wall hanger Muscovy duck ….would highly recommend captain Mike! Thanks again buddy!!

    Tyler W. with Michael O. of Plantation, Florida

Other Types of Fishing in Florida

Other Types of Hunting in Florida

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See All Nearshore Trips in Florida