Damn Good Kingfish Fishing Charters In Sarasota

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Sarasota kingfish fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Kingfish Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Offshore Grocery Run

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

6 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

4 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

9 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota 1/2 Day Trip - 22’ Bulls Bay

NEW
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $600
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Private 4 Hour - Sarasota Bay

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $550

Top Types of Kingfish Trips in Sarasota

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Target Species in Sarasota

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Kingfish Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Prestige Anna Maria Sound

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Classic Trip

100% (5)
22 ft 1 - 5 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 Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Chasing Monsters - 24’ Pathfinder

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Extended Day Lunker Chase

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Sarasota

Holmes Beach Nearshore Slam

NEW
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Sarasota

Overnight Adventure - 35’ Contender

100% (2)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $3,750
See All Kingfish Trips in Sarasota

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Everything to Know About Booking a Sarasota kingfish fishing charter

What are the best kingfish fishing charters in Sarasota?

Why should I book a kingfish fishing charter in Sarasota with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 43 kingfish trips in Sarasota, and the most popular trips in the area are Sarasota Offshore Grocery Run guided by Dustin, 6 Hours Fishing trip guided by Vasiliy, and 9 Hours Fishing trip guided by Vasiliy.

Our guides in Sarasota are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3716 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 kingfish guides / fishing lessons in Sarasota? Check out our beginner and family friendly kingfish guides in Sarasota.

What types of kingfish fishing charters are common in Sarasota?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for kingfish in Sarasota as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and flats fishing.

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

How much do Sarasota kingfish fishing charters cost?

Prices for kingfish in Sarasota can range anywhere from about $700 to $5,998, but the average price for a half day trip for kingfish in Sarasota is $2,199. The average price for a full day trip for kingfish in Sarasota is $3,670.

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 kingfish fishing in Sarasota?

The most popular season for kingfish fishing in Sarasota is summer, and most anglers book their trips 5 days in advance.

Do I need a Sarasota fishing license for kingfish and what are the bag limits for kingfish 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 kingfish in Sarasota all about?

Kingfish, also known as king mackerel, are a highly sought-after species among anglers in Sarasota, Florida. These sleek and powerful predators are known for their blistering runs and aggressive strikes, making them a favorite target for both experienced and novice fishermen alike. Sarasota's warm waters provide ideal habitat for kingfish, which can be found prowling near offshore reefs, wrecks, and along the edges of the Gulf Stream. During the cooler months, kingfish migrate closer to shore, offering anglers ample opportunities to hook into these formidable gamefish.

One popular technique for targeting kingfish in Sarasota is trolling with live bait or artificial lures. Anglers typically troll at varying speeds and depths, covering a large area of water to locate schools of feeding kingfish. Using downriggers or planer boards can help anglers present their baits at the optimal depth where kingfish are known to be cruising. Additionally, kite fishing has gained popularity among Sarasota anglers targeting kingfish. This method involves deploying a kite equipped with live baitfish, allowing anglers to keep their baits at the surface where kingfish are most likely to strike.

When hooked, kingfish put up a spirited fight, often making powerful runs and leaping out of the water in an attempt to shake the hook. Anglers must be prepared to handle the sheer strength and agility of these fish, as they can quickly test the limits of both angler and tackle. Sarasota's reputation as a premier kingfish destination draws anglers from far and wide, all eager for the chance to battle these adrenaline-pumping predators in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf Coast.

What are the most popular months to fish for kingfish in Sarasota?

In Sarasota, the kingfish season typically kicks into high gear during the cooler months, particularly from late fall through early spring. As temperatures drop, kingfish migrate closer to shore, following the movements of baitfish and seeking out warmer waters. This period marks prime time for anglers to target kingfish, as they can often be found in abundance along the coastal waters of Sarasota. During these months, anglers can expect consistent action and have the best chances of hooking into these powerful gamefish.

While kingfish can be caught year-round in Sarasota, their presence and behavior vary depending on the season. In the summer months, when water temperatures rise, kingfish tend to move farther offshore in search of cooler waters and deeper feeding grounds. However, experienced anglers know that even during the warmer months, kingfish can still be targeted successfully by venturing offshore to deeper waters or by employing specialized techniques such as kite fishing or trolling at greater depths.

Throughout the year, Sarasota's diverse ecosystem offers opportunities for anglers to pursue kingfish using various methods and strategies. Whether trolling near offshore reefs and wrecks, deploying kites with live baitfish, or bottom fishing in deeper waters, there's always a chance to hook into these adrenaline-pumping predators. Understanding the seasonal patterns and behaviors of kingfish is key to maximizing success and ensuring a memorable fishing experience in Sarasota's pristine waters.

What techniques are popular for catching kingfish in Sarasota?

Kingfish fishing in Sarasota, Florida, is a thrilling pursuit for anglers seeking a challenge. These powerful and fast predators inhabit the waters off the coast of Sarasota year-round, offering ample opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. One popular technique for targeting kingfish involves trolling with live bait or artificial lures. Anglers typically troll at varying speeds and depths to entice strikes from these elusive fish. Using downriggers or planer boards can help anglers present their baits at the ideal depth where kingfish are known to roam.

Another effective technique for kingfish fishing in Sarasota is kite fishing. This method involves deploying a kite equipped with live baitfish, allowing anglers to cover a large area of water while presenting their bait in a natural and enticing manner. The kite keeps the bait at the surface, mimicking the movements of fleeing baitfish, which can trigger aggressive strikes from hungry kingfish. This technique requires careful attention and skillful maneuvering to control the kite and ensure the bait remains in the strike zone.

For those looking for a more stationary approach,

bottom fishing near artificial reefs and wrecks can also yield success when targeting kingfish in Sarasota. These structures provide habitat and shelter for baitfish, which in turn attract kingfish and other predatory species. Anchoring near these productive areas and deploying live or cut bait to the bottom can result in exciting kingfish encounters. Anglers must be prepared to handle the powerful runs and acrobatic leaps of these formidable fish, as they often put up a spirited fight when hooked. By employing a combination of these techniques and adapting to changing conditions, anglers can increase their chances of landing the prized kingfish that inhabit the waters of Sarasota.

What other species are popular in Sarasota?

In addition to kingfish, Sarasota offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers eager to explore its abundant waters. One popular target species is the mighty tarpon, known for its impressive size and acrobatic leaps. Sarasota Bay and the surrounding Gulf waters are prime locations for tarpon fishing, especially during the annual migration season when these silver giants move along the coast in search of prey. Anglers often use live bait or artificial lures and employ various techniques such as sight casting or drift fishing to entice these powerful gamefish.

Another sought-after species in Sarasota is the snook, prized for its aggressive strikes and challenging fight. These ambush predators inhabit mangrove-lined shorelines, bridges, and shallow flats, making them accessible to anglers fishing from boats or the shore. Live bait such as mullet or pinfish, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits or topwater plugs, can all be effective in enticing strikes from hungry snook. Anglers must exercise stealth and patience when targeting these elusive fish, as they can be wary and selective in their feeding habits.

Sarasota's rich ecosystem also supports a variety of other popular gamefish, including redfish, trout, and Spanish mackerel. Redfish are often found in shallow flats and around oyster bars, where they feed on crustaceans and small baitfish. Anglers target them using live or cut bait, as well as soft plastic lures worked along the bottom. Speckled trout, on the other hand, are commonly found in grassy flats and deeper channels, where they ambush prey such as shrimp and small fish. Anglers can use a variety of techniques, including casting soft plastics or live bait under popping corks, to entice strikes from these voracious predators. Lastly, Spanish mackerel are known for their blistering runs and voracious appetite. Anglers target them using fast-moving lures or live baitfish trolled behind boats or cast from shore. Whether targeting kingfish, tarpon, snook, or any other species, Sarasota offers an angling paradise for fishermen of all skill levels.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Outstanding! Worked hard to find fish, great adventure

    Mark H. | August 24, 2024

    Trip: Chasing Monsters - 24’ Pathfinder

  • ★★★★★
    Great time on the water. Chris and Kaden are very knowledgeable. Highly recommend

    Brian P. | July 30, 2024

    Trip: Florida Sportfish on Light Tackle

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip with Adam! Highly recommend!!

    Brionne J. | July 26, 2024

    Trip: Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

  • ★★★★★
    Greatest experience we could ask for. Caught a good amount and captain Adam was very knowledgeable on where to go for best fishing and Is very respectful. Would highly recommend captain Adam to anyone looking for a fun fishing trip.

    Landan L. | July 7, 2024

    Trip: Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome!!!!!!

    John L. | June 30, 2024

    Trip: 4 hours Fishing trip

  • ★★★★★
    I was fishing with Captain Vasiliy on June 4th, he made the experience as enjoyable as possible for me and my daughter, he really understands fishing and knows good fishing spots, we caught a lot of fish with him! Thanks again Captain Vasiliy -Ruslan and Karolina

    Ruslan P. | June 14, 2024

    Trip: 6 Hours Fishing trip

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic 4 hour charter, Captain James was a blast and he knew where the fish were! Will book again, thanks for a great time.

    Ted M. | May 8, 2024

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Chris and Daniel were awesome. Caught a lot of fish and had a lot of fun. Provided rods and a variety of bait. Went on the 6 hour trip and it was plenty. If you want bigger fish then maybe go for the 8 hour

    Alex V. | March 18, 2024

    Trip: Gulfport Combo Classic

  • ★★★★★
    Went as a family trip of 4 and had an amazing time! Dustin and Mike were very professional and attentive. We had 2 newer fishers on board and they made sure we were comfortable. We caught our limit of fish! We’ve taken multiple charters in the area and this has by far been the best one! Highly recommend and we definitely will be rebooking the next time we visit!

    Nebraska D. | March 15, 2024

    Trip: Sarasota Offshore Grocery Run

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James was AWESOME! He was easy going, confident and a pleasure. One person in our party had never fished and Captain James was patient and instructional. He got us on fish immediately and we caught Jacks, Trout, Reds, and Snooks. I cannot recommend Captain James highly enough. I will definitely be using him in the future!

    James R. | February 29, 2024

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dimitri is a great fishing guild, extremely knowledgeable of the area and the target species you can go after. Even with not so great weather, he put us on the fish from the start to finish. Great conversations to be had and very knowledgeable about the local area and places to go. My wife and I had a great time and are looking forward to next year's trip to do it again.

    Richard K. | January 7, 2024

    Trip: Florida Classics on Light Tackle

  • ★★★★★
    The weather was rough but we really wanted to go. Captain Chris said that if we were willing he'd give it a go. He and first mate Taylor put us on fish and filled the cooler and really made the whole trip a very special day for my family and took great care of us. We would recommend these two anytime.

    Marty C. | December 28, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Drag Ripper

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dustin showed us a great day fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Hooked a few whopper Amber Jacks and plenty of grouper and snapper galore! Great eats!! Book with Captain Dustin and prepare to be wowed!

    Donald M. | December 27, 2023

    Trip: Sarasota Offshore Grocery Run

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast with James, it made our vacation!

    Theresa M. | November 9, 2023

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great time. Did great with our child. Then they recommend O’Maddys right down the road to have it cooked. It was a great day.

    Wendie S. | July 2, 2023

    Trip: Full Day Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    Highlight of our summer vacation! We took our kids (8 and 4 yr olds) and James made the trip all about them. We caught fish at every stop, did some sight seeing and played in the water. Exactly what I wanted them to experience. Thank you and see you next summer!

    Clint D. | June 29, 2023

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Chris, and Jack were above and beyond professionals! Can’t wait to join them for another adventure.

    Seth R. | June 9, 2023

    Trip: Gulfport Combo Classic

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Rick and Hope were the best we’ve had a chance to fish with! Great boat, everything you need is offered, good fishing, and a lot of fun. We will be fishing with them again soon and I highly recommend if you are traveling with the whole family, friends, or kids. They have it covered.

    Jason L. | May 31, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Seasonal Species - 48’

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Scott was great. He was very patient and encouraging with our kids as they learned the details of near shore fishing. Very hard worker. We ended up catching 50 fish!! Everyone had a great time.

    John J. | May 29, 2023

    Trip: Holmes Beach Nearshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    The guys were very happy with their trip and happy with the catch! Dustin was great also! Thanks we would do this again

    Stephen B. | May 10, 2023

    Trip: Sarasota Offshore Grocery Run

What's biting in Sarasota?

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