Ruskin Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters Near Ruskin, Fl

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Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Shark Hunt

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $150 / person
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Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $150 / person

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Scalloping Adventure - 24’ Skipjack

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $235 / person
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Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing

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25 ft 1 - 6 People From $142 / person

Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Inshore Fishing Slam

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21 ft 1 - 4 People From $113 / person

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Ruskin Fishing Classic

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $113 / person

Most Popular Types of Trips in Ruskin

“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

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More Fishing Charters Near Ruskin, Fl

Join Captain Eric for an amazing Tampa Bay fishing experience! Tampa Bay is a world-class fishing destination that features a range of marine habitats and a rich variety of sportfish species, all the way from the backcountry to the deeper waters. Captain Eric has fished this area since 1979, and he has the knowledge, skills and experience to put you on amazing fish, whether that means hitting the ship channel (up to 50ft deep) for Grouper, chumming, and throwing cut bait for Tarpon (Summer months), Snapper, Tripletail, Spanish and King Mackerel, Reds, much more under the Bridges---Tampa Bay really has it all. When you fish with Captain Eric, you'll be totally taken care of aboard his 24' Blazer Bay center console. She's an ideal boat for this area, with a hull profile meant to cut through chop and a shallow draft that allows you to fish the backcountry. She sports a powerful 300-HP Suzuki engine, and is fully equipped with a GPS, fishfinder, live well for your bait, and an ice box for your keepers. Captain Eric is full of tips and tricks to help improve your fishing and send you home with great memories and awesome pictures, plus a delicious dinner! He'll keep your keepers on ice until you're back on the dock, where he'll clean them for you. He also supplies all the gear you'll need, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to bring along is proper clothing and sunscreen, and you're in for a terrific trip. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay's Got It All!

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $125 / person
Damn Good

Most people known Sharks as the big, scary predators seen in movies like "Jaws". However, anglers understand that although Sharks are top predators in their environments, they're really graceful, majestic, and thrilling to catch. No matter your experience level, a Tampa shark fishing charter with Captain Jarrod will be the thrill of a lifetime! There are plenty of different types of sharks in Tampa Bay, making it the perfect spot to land your trophy fish or just to have some fun. More than a dozen different shark species swim beneath the waters of Tampa Bay, including the Blacktip (Carcharhinus limbatus), Bonnethead (Sphyrna tiburo), Hammerhead (Sphyrnidae Sphyrna), Nurse Shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum), Lemon Shark (Negaprion brevirostris), and Bull Shark (Carcharhinus leucas). When in doubt, you can just ask Captain Jarrod about the Shark you've hooked. You can catch non-prohibited shark species in Florida at any time of year. Typically, the best time is from May to August. Captain Jarrod is happy to tell you what species are best to fish for when you book your trip! On the day of your trip you will launch from the boat ramp next to Hook's Waterfront Bar and Grill. If you need to launch from a different area, Captain Jarrod is flexible and has several options—please let him know what works best for you. You'll be fishing from the deck of Captain Jarrod's 25' Sportsman 234 bay boat. This puppy comes equipped with a 250 Yamaha SHO engine for speed and maneuverability, plus a range of amenities including a multimedia system, PowerPoles for exploring shallow flats, trolling motor, multiple live wells for your bait, Yeti coolers for your drinks, and more! This boat is perfect for a family fishing trip. Jarrod will provide you with all the equipment, tackle, and bait you need, plus he'll supply ice for your food, drinks & fish, artificial lures, photos of your catch, secret techniques and instruction for artificial bait fishing, and he will even clean and bag your fish for you at the end of the day! All you need to bring is your sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, any food & drinks you'd like to enjoy onboard. Beer is welcome, but please—no hard liquor or wine, and no glass containers. If you've got Captain Jarrod at the wheel, your fishing adventure will surely be one to remember! Gratuity is never expected, but always appreciated! If your captain did a good job and you enjoyed your trip, considered rewarding his efforts with a 15-20% tip. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Sharkfest - 25’ Sportsman

NEW
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $167 / person

Want to escape the Florida heat and cast a few lines after-hours? Join Captain Ryan and enjoy an adventurous night of fishing in Tampa Bay, Florida! Nighttime fishing can be hit or miss depending on the moon phase but catch a full moon or the days around it more specifically and the fishing can be red hot! On these Tampa Bay night fishing adventures you can expect to target some dock lights, unlit bottom structures, fish the channels with live bait or post up by a bridge to target Mangrove Snapper, Snook, and even Tarpon during the summer months! These calm water conditions are perfect for beginner to intermediate fishermen/fisherwomen who are eager to reel something in. Even though there is low light, these trips can be super productive because some fish like to feed at night when predators—especially out of water predators like birds and humans—are less of a threat. Snook are one of these nocturnal feeders that love biting at night! You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Ryan’s 22-foot Skeeter bay boat powered by a 300 HP Suzuki engine. This boat is equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and Ice Box. Don’t forget to bring any snacks you might need (Captain Ryan will have bottled waters on board) as well as a cooler with ice to take home your night's catch. Captain Ryan will provide all rods, reels, and tackle, but feel free to bring your own. Captain Ryan catches live bait before the start of each trip, as it’s most effective in these waters, so don’t worry about bait! Captain Ryan will also clean and fillet your fish at the end of each trip. Get ready for an eventful night on the water with Captain Ryan! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Nighttime Snapper, Snook, Tarpon

NEW
22 ft 1 - 2 People From $350 / person
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There’s nothing like spending quality time on the water with a rod in your hands, and there's no better place for it than Tampa Bay. Head out with Captain Jarrod for a wonderful day on the water, chasing Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Grouper, and more! You'll venture between 3 and 9 miles off, where you have a ton of options to target. Whether you’re fishing with family, friends, or coworkers, Captain Jarrod is especially adept at handling all skill levels and is able to customize your trip to your preferences. On the day of your trip you will launch from the boat ramp next to Hook's Waterfront Bar and Grill. If you need to launch from a different area, Captain Jarrod is flexible and has several options—please let him know what works best for you. You'll be fishing from the deck of Captain Jarrod's 25' Sportsman 234 bay boat. This puppy comes equipped with a 250 Yamaha SHO engine for speed and maneuverability, plus a range of amenities including a multimedia system, PowerPoles for exploring shallow flats, trolling motor, multiple live wells for your bait, Yeti coolers for your drinks, and more! This boat is perfect for a family fishing trip. Jarrod will provide you with all the equipment, tackle, and bait you need, plus he'll supply ice for your food, drinks & fish, artificial lures, photos of your catch, secret techniques and instruction for artificial bait fishing, and he will even clean and bag your fish for you at the end of the day! All you need to bring is your sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, any food & drinks you'd like to enjoy onboard. Beer is welcome, but please—no hard liquor or wine, and no glass containers. If you've got Captain Jarrod at the wheel, your fishing adventure will surely be one to remember! Gratuties are never expected, but are always greatly appreciated! If your captain did a good job and you had an enjoyable trip, please consider rewarding his efforts with a 15-20% tip. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Nearshore Tampa Bay - 25’ Sportsman

NEW
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $167 / person
Damn Good

Welcome to Tampa Bay, Florida, where the sun is shining, the water is crystal clear, and the fish are biting! Join Captain Phil on a thrilling nearshore fishing adventure aboard his sleek 24' Dorado "hybrid" bay boat. With its shallow draft and powerful engine, this boat is perfect for navigating the waters of Tampa Bay and getting you to the best fishing spots. Under the expert guidance of Captain Phil, you'll be targeting some of the most sought-after species in the area, including Kingfish, Hogfish, and Snappers. These delicious fish are known for their fighting spirit, so get ready for some exciting battles on the water. As you reel in your catches, you'll enjoy stunning views of the Florida coastline and the surrounding islands. Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and other marine life that call Tampa Bay home! All passengers 12 and under must wear a life jacket at all times while onboard the boat. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Live Action

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $183 / person

If you're looking to get on some spectacular inshore and nearshore sportfish in the Tampa Bay area, there's no better guide than Captain Daryll. He's been fishing these waters his whole life, and he's studied the prime spots and best holes in order to put you on record-setting fish! On this trip, you can target both classic inshore species such as Mangrove Snapper, Snook, Redfish, and Speckled Trout. If you opt to go further out, you can also chase nearshore species such as Black and Gag Grouper, Cobia, and even Blacktip Sharks! These fish are a blast to hook and fight, and taste great as well! You'll be chasing bites using light-tackle techniques, fishing both live bait and lures depending on the season, water conditions, and weather. Captain Daryll is a pro, and he's got an array of tips and tricks to help you hook a personal best! Thomas runs his trips aboard his 24' Skipjack bay boat—an ideal vessel for hunting lunkers in inshore waters. She's fast, with a 200-HP Yamaha engine, and a hull profile that's sharp enough to cut through chop and shallow enough to get into backcountry channels where big fish like to congregate. She's also equipped with a wireless trolling motor to help you sneak up on your targets, plus a live well for bait and an ice box for your keepers. Everything you need will be provided for you, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunscreen (lotion only, no spray!), a hat, and a pair of sunglasses to cut the surface glare. Get out there and have a blast! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Rod-Bender

NEW
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $217 / person
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Ruskin

What are the best fishing charters in Ruskin?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 200 trips in Ruskin, and the most popular trips in the area are Tampa Bay Shark Hunt guided by Phil, Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing guided by Phil, and Inshore Fishing Slam guided by Christopher.

Our guides in Ruskin are rated a 4.97 out of 5 based on 2406 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.

Other popular cities nearby for booking a charter include St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tierra Verde.

Looking for kid friendly charters in Ruskin? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Ruskin.

What types of fishing charters are common in Ruskin?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular in Ruskin as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Ruskin are: 1. gag grouper, 2. redfish, 3. snook, and 4. mangrove snapper.

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

How much do Ruskin fishing charters cost?

in Ruskin prices can range anywhere from an affordable $300 to $3,000 and up, but the average price for a half day trip in Ruskin is $668. The average price for a full day trip in Ruskin is $1,265.

What month is best for fishing in Ruskin?

The most popular season for fishing in Ruskin is spring, and most anglers book their trips 22 days in advance.

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

If you’re thinking about a saltwater trip, you’re in luck! Our saltwater fishing tours in Ruskin 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 Ruskin. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations.

Popular Types of Fishing In Ruskin

The most common types of fishing charters in Ruskin, Florida are inshore and offshore charters. Inshore charters are perfect for those who want to catch snook, redfish, and trout in the shallow waters of Tampa Bay. Offshore charters, on the other hand, are for those who want to catch bigger fish like grouper, snapper, and kingfish in the deeper waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Ruskin fishing charters usually visit landmarks like the Little Manatee River and Cockroach Bay Preserve State Park. These areas are known for their abundant fish populations and beautiful scenery.

If you're looking for a Ruskin fishing charter, make sure to do your research and find a reputable company with experienced guides. And don't forget to bring your sunscreen and a sense of adventure!

The Best Places To Fish In Ruskin

Ruskin, Florida is a prime location for fishing enthusiasts. With its abundance of waterways and diverse fish species, there are plenty of great spots to cast a line. Whether you're looking for a peaceful day of fishing or a thrilling adventure on a fishing charter, here are some of the best places to fish in Ruskin:

1. Little Manatee River - This scenic river is home to a variety of fish, including snook, redfish, and tarpon. Fishing charters are available for those who want to explore the river's hidden spots.

2. Tampa Bay - As one of the largest estuaries in Florida, Tampa Bay offers a wide range of fishing opportunities. From snook and redfish to grouper and snapper, there's something for everyone here.

3. Cockroach Bay - Despite its name, Cockroach Bay is a beautiful and productive fishing spot. Anglers can expect to catch snook, redfish, and trout, among other species.

4. Apollo Beach - This popular fishing destination is known for its abundant snook population. Fishing charters are available for those who want to venture out into deeper waters.

5. Alafia River - The Alafia River is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. With its clear waters and diverse fish species, it's a great spot for both beginners and experienced anglers.

6. Gulf of Mexico - For those who want to experience deep sea fishing, the Gulf of Mexico is the place to be. Fishing charters are available for those who want to catch big game fish like tuna, marlin, and sailfish.

No matter where you choose to fish in Ruskin, Florida, you're sure to have a memorable experience. Whether you're casting a line from shore or venturing out on a fishing charter, the area's abundant fish populations and beautiful scenery make it a top destination for anglers.

Other Things To Do In Ruskin

While Ruskin fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant Florida city. Take a trip to the Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre for a unique movie experience, or explore the natural beauty of the Little Manatee River State Park. For a taste of local culture, visit the Firehouse Cultural Center or the SouthShore Regional Library. And if you're looking for some outdoor fun, head to E.G. Simmons Park for kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. With so much to see and do, Ruskin is the perfect destination for a well-rounded vacation.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Chris was a awesome guide 5 star

    Robert L. with Christopher T. of Ruskin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip and experience! Highly recommended.

    Troy M. with Daryll P. of Ruskin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Phil is Great!!’n Phil is very personable and put you on fish. Phil shared pointers on fishing techniques to help you catch fish. A lot of fishing action in the Tampa Bay fishery!!! You can’t go wrong by chartering with Phil, you’ll leave a friends. 😎 “Phil’s a damn GOOD Captain”

    Brad S. with Phil P. of Ruskin, Florida

Top Targeted Hunting Species in Ruskin

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View Ruskin Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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