Damn Good Sarasota Fishing Charters

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

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

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked 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, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Bountiful Backwaters Of Sarasota

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
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

9 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
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% (3)
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

6 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Inshore/Nearshore

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $550

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

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)

Deep Sea 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
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% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
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% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
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% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
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

Inshore Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Southwest Florida Fishing Adventure

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Backcountry Fire Up!

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 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
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 Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Beach Fishing: Family And Beginner-Friendly

100% (1)
1 - 4 People From $390
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% (6)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $550

Nearshore 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, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Fishing Fun In The Florida Sun

100% (3)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Southwest Florida Fishing Adventure

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
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
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
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
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% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $600

More 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 Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Beach Fishing: Family And Beginner-Friendly

100% (1)
1 - 4 People From $390
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Tarpon Trips

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Fishing Wildlife And Sandbar Combo

NEW
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty, Flats Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Inshore Fishing

NEW
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Backcountry Fire Up!

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Southwest Florida Fishing Adventure

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
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?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 140 trips in Sarasota, and the most popular trips in the area are Bountiful Backwaters of Sarasota guided by Tony, Sarasota Offshore Grocery Run guided by Dustin, and 9 Hours Fishing trip guided by Vasiliy.

Our guides in Sarasota are rated a 4.85 out of 5 based on 3799 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 charters / fishing lessons in Sarasota? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Sarasota.

What types of fishing charters are common in Sarasota?

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

The most commonly sought after species in Sarasota are: 1. gag grouper, 2. redfish, 3. snook, 4. mangrove snapper, and 5. speckled trout.

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

How much do Sarasota fishing charters cost?

Prices in Sarasota can range anywhere from about $600 to $5,500, but the average price for a half day trip in Sarasota is $1,492. The average price for a full day trip in Sarasota is $3,159.

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 fishing in Sarasota?

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

Do I need a Sarasota fishing license and what are the bag limits 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.

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

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time. We caught around 40 fish. Gray snapper, Redfish, Porgy, and Sheep Head. Caught some group or two, but they’re out of season so I’d throw them back. The fish we did keep we took back and cooked them up. They were delicious.

    Griffin P. | December 13, 2024

    Trip: 6 Hours Fishing trip

  • ★★★★★
    James was fantastic. He communicated very good and knew the bay extremely well. He put my son and I on fish at each spot and couldn’t of asked for a better experience in Sarasota Bay!

    Joshua D. | November 27, 2024

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Was very pleased with the experience. We caught about 40 fish overall and he took us to several spots. Easy to talk with and excellent communication.

    Dave C. | November 26, 2024

    Trip: Dusky Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Communication was great. Phil did prep work for our trip and gave us options, which was great.

    Matt N. | November 25, 2024

    Trip: Duck Hunting Tampa Bay

  • ★★★★★
    Great day on water. Very knowledgeable of the waters, fish, and gear.

    Ben A. | November 12, 2024

    Trip: Bradenton Classic Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    We had a wonderful morning with Captain Alex catching redfish, snook and speckled sea trout. He even cleaned our fish for us.

    Beth G. | October 26, 2024

    Trip: Bradenton Classic Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    My grandkids loved it. Captain Christian was a real professional with the patience of a saint for my two novice anglers!

    Fred R. | August 25, 2024

    Trip: Fishing Fun in the Florida Sun

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great Trip with Phil. I took my kids on a family Lobster trip. Phil helped teach my kids and we all had a great experience!

    Chad L. | July 26, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Fishing + Lobstering

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

    Brionne J. | July 26, 2024

    Trip: Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time with Christian. First time on a fishing trip. Christian made sure we were all catching fish. Definitely recommend and we'll be back.

    Michele E. | July 25, 2024

    Trip: Fishing Fun in the Florida Sun

  • ★★★★★
    The fish hawk was an outstanding charter and Captain Brian and mate were very professional and worked hard to fill the fish box. As soon as the bite slowed on a spot, we packed up and headed to another spot. We caught fish all day long. We had 6 people fishing on the boat and I know that takes a lot of effort from the crew and they both helped all day long baiting hooks, taking fish off, and tying lines,,,,I highly recommend them and wil no doubt book again with these guys

    Tim H. | July 22, 2024

    Trip: Federal American Red Snapper - 28’

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great fishing trip with Captain Wade. I booked our trip for my boyfriend’s 40th birthday for us, and 3 of his friends. Wade had everything we needed and more and provided a fun and laid back experience. We all caught a handful of fish, myself included, who had never fished before. I highly recommend!!

    Rachel B. | July 13, 2024

    Trip: St. Petersburg Inshore Adventures

  • ★★★★★
    We had the opportunity to take our four kids on their first fishing charter while visiting Sarasota. We booked with Ultimate Fishing Adventures and Henry was our guide. I don’t think we could have asked for a better experience. Henry was amazing with the kids. He put them on fish right away and our son landed a snook on the first cast. Henry even got us up close to some manatees which was so cool. I absolutely recommend this group for your charter.

    Sonya A. | July 9, 2024

    Trip: Holmes Beach Inshore Hookfest

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip with David. He arrived at the dock on time ready to go. He's got a nice, open, boat with a center console so it was easy to move around. We moved around the inter coastal area between Anna Maria and Long Boat fishing for snook, red fish, and trout. Anytime we weren't getting bites we'd move. David worked very hard to keep all of us in fresh bait, and good locations. He knew a ton about the local fish, currents, depths, and regulations. We also got to see several manatees which was such a lovely bonus! When my son hooked a big red fish David gave him great guidance to help him bring it in. He was easy to talk to and we are already recommending him to our friends. We will definitely book again next time we're in the area.

    Rey S. | June 28, 2024

    Trip: The Local Trip

  • ★★★★★
    great day!!

    Marissa L. | June 16, 2024

    Trip: The Local Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Booked this for my son’s birthday trying to get him to enjoy the outdoors again. We had a great time,I was thrilled when he asked if we could go again! Thank you so much for a great day! Jeannette & Kai

    Jeannette F. | June 15, 2024

    Trip: Bountiful Backwaters of Sarasota

Top Fishing Techniques in Sarasota

Top Types of Fishing in Sarasota

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