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Recently Booked Black Drum Fishing Charters Near Sarasota, Fl
Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota
Private 4 Hour - Sarasota Bay
Deep Sea, Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Sarasota
Cape Coral Back Bays
Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter near Sarasota
St Petersburg Inshore Fishing!!!
Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Sarasota
Clearwater Classic
Most Popular Types of Black Drum Trips in Sarasota
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More Black Drum Fishing Charters Near Sarasota, Fl
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
Hop on board with Captain Ben and prepare for an action-packed day of fishing the intercoastal and nearshore waters around Tarpon Springs!! On these 6 to 8 hour trips with Captain Ben, you will bust it out to the nearshore waters where you can target Cobia, Mackerel, and Triple Tail and Tarpon when they are around. Captain Ben has been catching these prized fish off the Florida Gulf Coast for years, and he is sure to put you where the fish are biting. To attract these picture-worthy fish you'll be a range of light to heavy tackle, mostly using live bait or throwing the occasional artificial lure. Captain Ben is happy to demonstrate proper fundamentals for any of these techniques. Captain Ben fishes aboard a 23' Sea Chaser equipped with a live well, a T-top for shade, and cushioned seats that provide plenty of space to lounge around while you're waiting for the fish to bite. But just when you get seated comfortably you can bet your bottom dollar that rod'll start whirring and you be back up fighting another fish to the boat! Captain Ben will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need is a valid Florida fishing license as well as any food or drinks you might need. Come aboard and catch some fish Read More
Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Sarasota
Tarpon Springs Intercoastal Trip
Join Captain Matt and enjoy a beautiful morning or 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 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 eventful day on the water with Captain Matt! Read More
Head out with Captain Christopher for a half, 3/4, or full day of fishing around the inshore waters and flats of Tampa. 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! You won't have to worry about not being prepared as Captain Christopher supplies everything you need for a successful fishing adventure. He supplies all bait, tackle, gear, and fishing license. All you need to bring is appropriate clothing for Florida's climate and any food or drinks you might want. Polarized glasses are recommended. Read More
Embark on a thrilling saltwater bowfishing adventure with Captain Ike, a seasoned pro with 28 years of guiding experience. From the comfort of our 20ft Mako Pro Skiff, you'll have the opportunity to target a wide range of species including Sheepshead, Mullet, Flounder, Mangrove Snapper, Stingrays, Blackdrum, and many others. Get ready to test your skills and aim as you take on the challenge of bowfishing in the saltwater. As a Bowfishing Pro-Staffer for Bass Pro Shops Cabela's, Captain Ike brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every trip. He will provide you with top-of-the-line bowfishing equipment and guide you in honing your technique to ensure a successful outing. Whether you're a seasoned bowfisher or a beginner looking to try something new, Captain Ike will cater to your skill level and make sure you have an unforgettable and action-packed experience. Join us on this unique saltwater bowfishing excursion, where you'll not only enjoy the thrill of the hunt but also take in the breathtaking coastal scenery. As the sun sets on the horizon, casting its warm glow across the water, you'll feel the rush of adrenaline as you aim your bow and release the arrow towards your target. Don't miss your chance to join Captain Ike on this exciting adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime. Read More
Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter near Sarasota
Tampa Bowfishing Charters
If you're looking for a fishing adventure in Clearwater, Florida, look no further than a trip with Captain Garrett, your expert fishing guide! With years of experience and a passion for the sport, Garrett knows all the best spots for inshore, nearshore, flats, and backcountry fishing. On his 22' Pathfinder bay boat, you'll enjoy a comfortable ride as you set out on your fishing expedition. Garrett specializes in using live bait to target a variety of fish species, including Snook, Redfish, Trout, and Tarpon. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, Garrett will cater to your skill level and ensure you have an unforgettable experience on the water. With his friendly and personable approach, you'll feel at ease as you learn new techniques and reel in your catch of the day. Don't miss out on the chance to fish with the best. Book your trip with Garrett today and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget! Read More
Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Sarasota
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Everything to Know About Booking a Sarasota black drum fishing charter
What are the best black drum fishing charters in Sarasota?
The best black drum fishing charters in Sarasota are:
Why should I book a black drum fishing charter in Sarasota with Captain Experiences?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 4 black drum trips in Sarasota, and the most popular trips in the area are Private 4 hour - Sarasota Bay guided by William and Sarasota Classic Trip guided by James.
Our guides in Sarasota are rated a 4.86 out of 5 based on 3297 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 Sarasota? Check out our beginner and family friendly black drum guides in Sarasota.
What types of black drum fishing charters are common in Sarasota?
Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for black drum in Sarasota as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and flats fishing.
The most common fishing techniques in Sarasota are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and bottom fishing but artificial lure fishing and cut bait fishing are popular as well.
How much do Sarasota black drum fishing charters cost?
Prices for black drum in Sarasota can range anywhere from about $450 to $950, but the average price for a half day trip for black drum in Sarasota is $550. The average price for a full day trip for black drum in Sarasota is $864.
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 Sarasota?
The most popular season for black drum fishing in Sarasota is spring, and most anglers book their trips 20 days in advance.
Do I need a Sarasota fishing license for black drum and what are the bag limits for black drum in Sarasota?
See here for more information on fishing licenses in Sarasota, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Sarasota. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Sarasota.
What is black drum in Sarasota all about?
Black drum (Pogonias cromis) are a prominent species found in the waters around Sarasota, offering anglers an exciting opportunity to target a fish known for its robust size and spirited fight. These fish are easily recognizable by their dark gray or black coloration and distinctive chin barbels. Black drum inhabit a variety of habitats, including bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters, where they feed primarily on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Sarasota provides ample opportunities for anglers to pursue black drum year-round, with the chance to hook into specimens weighing upwards of 50 pounds.
Fishing for black drum in Sarasota often involves targeting them in shallow flats, along mangrove shorelines, or near bridges and docks, where they forage for food. Anglers typically use a variety of baits to entice black drum, including live or cut bait such as shrimp, crabs, or clams. Additionally, artificial lures such as soft plastics or jigs can also be effective in enticing strikes from black drum. Anglers may need to employ patience and finesse when targeting these fish, as they can be selective feeders and may require a well-presented bait or lure to elicit a strike.
While black drum can be caught year-round in Sarasota, anglers may find greater success during certain times of the year, particularly during the cooler months. In winter, black drum often gather in larger numbers in deeper water, providing anglers with the opportunity to target them in offshore areas and around structures such as wrecks and reefs. Understanding the habits and preferences of black drum, as well as adapting techniques to suit seasonal variations, can greatly enhance an angler's chances of success when targeting these prized fish in Sarasota's diverse and productive waters.
What are the most popular months to fish for black drum in Sarasota?
In Sarasota, the seasons for targeting black drum can vary throughout the year, influenced by factors such as water temperature, spawning behavior, and migratory patterns. While black drum can be found in the waters off Sarasota year-round, anglers often find greater success during certain seasons when these fish are more active and abundant. Typically, the cooler months, from fall through early spring, coincide with peak black drum fishing seasons in Sarasota, as these fish become more active and move into shallower waters to feed and spawn.
During the cooler months, black drum are often found inhabiting shallower flats, estuaries, and nearshore areas in Sarasota's coastal waters, making them prime targets for anglers. These fish are known for their voracious appetite and can be enticed to bite using a variety of baits, including live or cut bait such as shrimp, crabs, or clams. Anglers may also encounter black drum while targeting other species in similar habitats, such as redfish or snook, adding to the excitement of a day on the water.
While black drum fishing in Sarasota can be productive year-round, anglers should be mindful of local regulations and guidelines governing catch limits and seasonal closures to ensure sustainable fishing practices. Responsible anglers also consider factors such as weather conditions, tidal movements, and lunar cycles, which can influence black drum behavior and feeding activity. By staying informed and adapting their strategies to the seasonal rhythms of black drum, anglers in Sarasota can enjoy rewarding fishing experiences and the satisfaction of hooking into these prized catches.
What techniques are popular for catching black drum in Sarasota?
Fishing for black drum in Sarasota requires anglers to employ specific techniques tailored to the habits and preferences of these fish. One effective technique is bottom fishing in areas where black drum are known to congregate, such as shallow flats, estuaries, and nearshore structures like bridges and docks. Anglers typically use heavy tackle and sturdy rigs to withstand the strong resistance of black drum, which can grow to impressive sizes. Baits such as live or cut shrimp, crabs, or clams are commonly used to entice black drum to bite, presented near the bottom where these fish forage for food.
Another successful technique for targeting black drum in Sarasota is sight fishing, particularly in shallower waters where these fish can be observed cruising along the flats or feeding near the surface. Anglers can use polarized sunglasses to spot black drum and then cast lures or baits directly in front of them to elicit a strike. This method requires stealth and patience but can be highly rewarding when anglers successfully hook into a trophy-sized black drum.
Sarasota's diverse coastal waters offer a variety of habitats where black drum can be found, from mangrove-lined shorelines to sandy flats and oyster bars. Anglers should adjust their fishing techniques and locations based on factors such as water depth, current flow, and time of day to maximize their chances of success. By experimenting with different baits, rigs, and presentation methods, anglers in Sarasota can enjoy thrilling encounters with black drum and create lasting memories on the water.
What other species are popular in Sarasota?
Aside from targeting black drum, anglers visiting Sarasota have a wealth of other species to pursue, providing diverse fishing opportunities in the area's rich marine environment. One popular target among anglers is the redfish, also known as red drum, prized for its powerful runs and aggressive strikes. Redfish can be found in a variety of habitats, including shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and oyster bars, where they forage for crabs, shrimp, and small fish. Anglers often use live or cut bait such as mullet or pinfish, as well as artificial lures like spoons or soft plastics, to entice strikes from these hard-fighting fish.
Another sought-after species in Sarasota's waters is the snook, a prized game fish known for its elusive nature and strong fighting ability. Snook are commonly found in mangrove-lined creeks, canals, and along sandy beaches, where they ambush prey in the moving tides. Anglers target snook using a variety of techniques, including live bait such as pilchards or artificial lures like topwater plugs or swimbaits. These fish provide anglers with thrilling battles and memorable catches, making them a favorite among local and visiting fishermen alike.
In addition to redfish and snook, anglers in Sarasota can also pursue a variety of other species, including trout, flounder, and tarpon. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or shore, Sarasota offers diverse opportunities for anglers of all skill levels and interests. With its abundance of fish species and picturesque coastal scenery, Sarasota remains a premier destination for anglers seeking unforgettable fishing experiences on Florida's Gulf Coast.
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Other Fishing Species in Sarasota
- Amberjack
- Black Grouper
- Blackfin Tuna
- Blacktip Shark
- Blue Catfish
- Bonito
- Bonnethead Shark
- Bull Shark
- Cobia
- Florida Pompano
- Flounder
- Gag Grouper
- Goliath Grouper
- Grunt
- Hogfish
- Kingfish
- Lane Snapper
- Mahi Mahi
- Mangrove Snapper
- Red Grouper
- Redfish
- Sheepshead
- Snook
- Spanish Mackerel
- Speckled Trout
- Tarpon
- Tripletail
- Vermillion Snapper
- Wahoo
- Yellowtail Snapper
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What's biting in Sarasota?
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