Damn Good Sarasota Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Sarasota fishing trips. Deep Sea, Inshore, Flats, Nearshore, Deep Sea, and River trips available.

Choose a Date
Choose a Trip Type
4.85/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

You will only find quality, vetted guides on Captain Experiences, and we know them all on a first-name basis

Experts Available 24/7

Our US-based team is available 24/7 to help you with any questions or concerns

100% Weather Guarantee

We want to keep everyone safe, so in the case of inclement weather we'll work with you to reschedule at no cost

Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

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, Deep Sea, Nearshore in Sarasota

Prestige Anna Maria Sound

83% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing in Sarasota

Back Country Fire Up

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty in Sarasota

Sarasota’s Premier Fishing Trip

100% (16)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

Kid's Trip

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

Fishing Inshore/Nearshore

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Hot Trip
people are viewing this trip.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

Chasing Monsters - 24’ Pathfinder

100% (25)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000

Top Types of Trips in Sarasota

Top Species for Fishing in Sarasota

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

All 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 Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

4 Hour Trip – Fish And Fun

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $399
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

Southwest Florida Fishing Adventure

100% (2)
21 ft 1 - 8 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Sarasota

Sarasota Inshore/Nearshore

100% (15)
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats in Sarasota

Sarasota Inshore Fishing

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Hot Trip
people are viewing this trip.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

Sarasota Offshore Grocery Run

100% (13)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,500
Hot Trip
people are viewing this trip.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Sarasota

Extended Day Lunker Chase

100% (13)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,200
See All Trips in Sarasota

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Sarasota

What are the best fishing charters in Sarasota?

Sarasota Inshore Fishing

Located 30 miles south of Tampa Bay, Sarasota offers high-quality fishing opportunities because of the rich estuary it sits on. The mix of salt and fresh water creates an estuary called Sarasota Bay where both baitfish and gamefish flourish. With beautiful water and a variety of different habitats to explore in search of target species, this is heaven for anglers and tourists alike.

One of the most popular ways to fish inshore is to drift the large grass flats of Sarasota Bay, a common spot to catch speckled trout. The water here runs 4-10 feet deep and will hold all sorts of inshore species, including speckled trout, ladyfish, pompano, jacks, and many more. If you want to target bigger fish head to the two inlets of the area, Big Sarasota Pass or New Pass. The water movement and changing tides draw all sorts of bait action and the bluefish and Spanish mackerel are sure to follow.

Snook are a bucket list fish for so many anglers and Sarasota happens to be a frequent stop on their migration. They are powerful fish and can grow into 40+ pound giants that will crush lures and bait if they decide to bite.

Offshore Fishing in Sarasota

Heading further out you can target various species of deep-dwelling fish including grouper, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish. To Target these fish the best approach is to locate deep structure and then drop down baited lines.

To find pelagic species, you will want to head out to deep water channels or dropoffs and troll with a spread of lures or baits. The offshore species that patrol these waters commonly get very large and a battle with them can last for hours. Whatever you decide to target, it will be a trip to remember.

View All Sarasota Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Popular Types of Fishing In Sarasota

Sarasota fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Sarasota include inshore, offshore, and deep-sea fishing.

Inshore fishing charters are perfect for those who want to stay close to shore and catch species such as snook, redfish, and trout. Offshore fishing charters take you further out to sea and target species such as grouper, snapper, and kingfish.

For the ultimate fishing adventure, deep-sea fishing charters are the way to go. These charters take you miles offshore to catch big game fish such as tuna, marlin, and sailfish.

Some popular landmarks that Sarasota fishing charters visit include the Ringling Bridge and Siesta Key.

Depending on the type of fishing charter you choose, the most common fish to catch in Sarasota include snook, redfish, trout, grouper, snapper, kingfish, tuna, marlin, and sailfish. So, whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, there's a Sarasota fishing charter that's perfect for you.

The Best Places To Fish In Sarasota

Sarasota, Florida is a prime location for fishing enthusiasts, with its abundance of waterways and diverse fish species. Whether you're looking for a peaceful day of fishing or an exciting fishing charter adventure, here are some of the best places to fish in Sarasota:

1. Siesta Key: This popular beach destination is also a great spot for fishing, with its clear waters and variety of fish species. Fishing charters are available for those looking for a more guided experience.

2. Longboat Key: This barrier island offers plenty of opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing, with a variety of fish species including tarpon, snook, and redfish.

3. Lido Key: This island is known for its beautiful beaches, but it's also a great spot for fishing. Fishing charters are available for those looking to explore the deeper waters offshore.

4. Sarasota Bay: This large bay offers a variety of fishing opportunities, from inshore fishing for snook and redfish to offshore fishing for grouper and snapper. Fishing charters are available for those looking for a more guided experience.

5. Myakka River: This scenic river is a great spot for freshwater fishing, with a variety of fish species including bass, catfish, and bluegill. Fishing charters are available for those looking to explore the river's deeper waters.

6. Venice Beach: This popular beach destination is also a great spot for fishing, with its clear waters and variety of fish species. Fishing charters are available for those looking for a more guided experience.

7. Anna Maria Island: This barrier island offers plenty of opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing, with a variety of fish species including tarpon, snook, and redfish. Fishing charters are available for those looking to explore the deeper waters offshore.

Other Things To Do In Sarasota

While Sarasota fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant Florida city. Take a stroll through the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, where you can admire exotic plants and flowers from around the world. For a taste of culture, visit the Ringling Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures. If you're looking for some outdoor fun, head to Siesta Key Beach, which boasts crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. For a unique experience, take a sunset cruise on Sarasota Bay, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. And if you're a thrill-seeker, check out the Sarasota Skydiving Adventures for an unforgettable adrenaline rush. With so much to see and do, Sarasota is the perfect destination for a fun-filled vacation.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic day on the water with Captain Alex. I showed up to the dock a little early and everything was already dialed in—the boat was spotless, fully prepared, and stocked with fresh bait he’d caught that morning. Even on a quick half-day trip, we covered multiple areas and switched up tactics, starting with snook along mangroves and docks before moving on to speckled trout and mackerel. Captain Alex struck the perfect balance between being helpful and letting me fish how I wanted. He was always ready to assist, but also encouraged me to bait hooks, handle fish, and stay fully involved. The action stayed steady, and he offered great coaching and insight whenever I had questions. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I’d absolutely book with him again and look forward to getting back out there soon!

    Scott S. | November 25, 2025

    Trip: Bradenton Classic Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Outstanding experience with Alex and his skills and knowledge. Great day of fishing with everyone in the group catching a ton and we have a great time. Highly recommend!

    Mike H. | November 25, 2025

    Trip: Bradenton Classic Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip Taylor!! He was a great captain! We caught LOTS of fish. Super knowledgeable and such a pleasure to be around. We will definitely be calling him when we come back to Florida again. Top notch experience! Caught mackerel, trout, groupers, Jack fish, lady fish, lizard fish, catfish and we saw a dolphin. Thank you for a great experience!

    Laura Q. | November 24, 2025

    Trip: Inshore Fishing Charter Bradenton

  • ★★★★★
    Great time, great action. Very knowledgeable. Caught lots of different species. Highly recommend!

    Scott J. | November 10, 2025

    Trip: Inshore Trip Afternoon Action

  • ★★★★★
    Had an awesome day on the water with Marc. Despite cold and windy weather, Marc worked hard to make sure we caught fish. My niece said it was her “best fishing trip ever!” Will definitely ask Marc to take us out again in the future.

    Dan P. | November 3, 2025

    Trip: Back Country Fire Up

Top Fishing Techniques in Sarasota

Top Types of Fishing in Sarasota

Other Featured Cities

How are fishing conditions in Sarasota?

View Sarasota Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Trips in Sarasota