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Sheepshead Fishing Charters In Sarasota

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Recently Booked Sheepshead Fishing Charters Near Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Classic Trip

100% (4)
22 ft 1 - 5 People $
Fishing in Sarasota

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Inshore/Nearshore

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 5 People $$
Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota 1/2 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox

NEW
22 ft 1 - 3 People $
Fishing in Sarasota

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota's #1 Inshore Fishing Charter

NEW
23 ft 1 - 6 People $
Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota 3/4 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox

NEW
22 ft 1 - 3 People $$
Fishing in Sarasota

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Fishing, Wildlife And Sandbar Combo!

NEW
23 ft 1 - 6 People $

Most Popular Types of Sheepshead Trips in Sarasota

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More Sheepshead Fishing Charters Near Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Bradenton
Fishing in Bradenton
Fishing in Bradenton
trip description for Inshore Fishing Charter in Bradenton

On our inshore fishing charters we will be fishing the bays of Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay on the grass flats and around the mangroves & oyster bars. During our inshore adventures we primarily fish for snook, trout, and redfish. Other species that we encounter on our inshore fishing charters include flounder, pompano, mangrove snapper, sheepshead, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, gag grouper, ladyfish, and jack crevelle. We fish with light tackle and use live bait. A nice thing about fishing inshore is that we are always within 10-20 minutes of a restroom. Some of the best inshore fishing occurs in the spring and fall with these transition periods have fish very hungry and on the move. **Full day 8 hour trips are only available in the Morning.** Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Bradenton

Inshore Fishing Charter

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
trip description for St Petersburg inshore Fishing!!! in St. Petersburg

Captain George has been fishing the waters of the St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay area for over 42years and has been professionally guiding for 25 years. He welcomes all from the novice angler to the professional angler. Trips with Capt. George are family friendly but are also good for entertaining business clientele, birthday parties, bachelor and bachelorette parties. We will fish Tampa Bay and its flats and backwater areas. We will always put you in protected waters on windy days to make sure you are in calm waters having a great time. There is a wide variety of fish in Tampa Bay that can be tailored to what you are after, whether it is dinner or just sportfishing catch and release, we customize the trip for you. The main species that we target are snook, redfish, trout and mangrove snapper but we also catch shark, spanish mackerel, sheepshead, cobia and more! The 4 hour trip is a great trip to get out there and have plenty of time to experience the great fishing that Tampa Bay has to offer. This trip is great for the novice to the average angler who doesn't want to be out there to long but still have fun catching plenty of fish. The 6 hour trip is for the angler that just can't get enough and wants to maximize their day of fishing. This trip will give the fishing fanatic plenty of time to get their fishing fix in! Also your picture could end up on a show or in magazines if you would like that. Captain George co-hosts Fishing Adventures Florida which streams on 5 channels plus YouTube, he also co-hosts Florida West Coast Fishing Report Live Monday nights on Facebook and he writes for Coastal Angler Magazine and Onshore Offshore Magazine. So there is a good possibility that you could be slightly famous after a trip with Capt. George if you would like your photo featured on one of these platforms. Read More

Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St Petersburg Inshore Fishing!!!

NEW
24 ft 1 - 5 People $
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
trip description for Half-Day Quick Trip in St. Petersburg

Get ready for a thrilling day out with Captain Juan as you go after a range of exciting and delicious fish that call these waters home. These shallow waters can be difficult to navigate for some boats, but not when you have a 21’ Carolina Skiff, though. This light vessel will stay afloat in pretty much any body of water. Powered by a 150 HP Mercury engine, you’ll speed off along the bay, before the wireless trolling motor helps you steer in the skinny waters. She comes fitted with all the necessary safety equipment, including an EPIRB, and the captain is fully CPR-trained, for that extra peace of mind. When out on the fish, try bottom dropping, popping the tops, or trolling while you drift along. With the latest Penn rods and reels, you’ll have the best chance of hooking some of these tough-fighting species aboard. Battle it out with the notorious Snook, along with Redfish, and Seatrout. While you’ll also go after a range of tasty fish to fill up your fridge. Take home Sheepshead, Tripletail, Snapper, and Mackerel, among many more. At the end of your trip, Captain Juan will clean and prepare your catch for you to take home for a delicious dinner, and beyond! With water provided and your license taken care of, all that’s left for you to do is bring some snacks and drinks aboard and get ready for a productive day with Captain Juan. An incredible day’s inshore fishing in stunning surroundings awaits! **Captain Juan requires a 48 hour advance on bookings. So even if the date is open on the calendar, know that it is at his discretion to accept the trip on such short notice.** Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Half-Day Quick Trip

100% (4)
21 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Ruskin
Fishing in Ruskin
Fishing in Ruskin
trip description for Tampa Bay Inshore Rodeo in Ruskin

There's simply no better way to enjoy the summer than a backcountry fishing trip with Captain Brian! He's fished the mangrove channels and around Ruskin, FL for years, and you can be sure that he'll put you right where the fish are! These channels provide perfect habitat for several sportfish species, especially Redfish and Speckled Trout, and if you get a little further off, there's perfect water for hooking Cobia, Tripletail, Bluefish, and more! These species are perfect inshore/nearshore opponents that fight hard and love to bite on a range of lures and baits. There's nothing like pulling some big ol' Red out of the mangrove roots, whether it's your first fish or your hundredth! On this trip, you'll have a blast aboard Captain Brian's 24' Ken Craft center console. She's perfectly designed for these waters, with a sleek hull profile and a shallow draft for inshore access. She's equipped with a 200-HP Yamaha engine to take you "dock to dock" smoothly and comfortable. She also features a full kit of electronics, and a live well for your bait. Captain Brian will bring everything you need for a great day, including all the rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to bring is proper clothing, sunscreen (no spray please!) and a pair of sunglasses to help you spot fish. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Inshore Rodeo

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
trip description for 4-8 Hour Fishing Trip in St. Petersburg

Stay inshore to whack redfish, trout, flounder, and sheepshead for some rod bending action, or hit it a little further offshore to troll the nearshore waters for giant Mackerel or bottom fish for a myriad of snapper and grouper species that call the Florida State waters home. For this St. Petersburg fishing trip, the world is truly your oyster, but the longer the trip you choose to run, the more options you will have in terms of techniques! Captain Hanks 22' Allcraft is the perfect fishing vessel for 4 guests fishing inshore and can make it out to the deeper water when the swells are less than 2ft. Even if the waves do not permit a nearshore voyage, there is still so much to explore along the surf and into the backcountry rivers around St. Pete, and a myriad of different species to hook into as well! Captain Hank will provide everything you need for your Inshore/Nearshore adventure so all you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, and your sun protection, and get ready to rip some lips! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

4-8 Hour Fishing Trip

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 4 People $
Fishing in Holmes Beach
Fishing in Holmes Beach
Fishing in Holmes Beach
trip description for Family Fun Fishing Excursion in Holmes Beach

Come aboard with Captain Jimmy for a family-friendly excursion on the inshore waters off of Holmes Beach, FL! You can choose between a 3 hour and a 4 hour adventure aboard his comfortable 26’ Donzi center console. Among the flats, you and your young anglers will learn a range of fishing techniques as you target Mangrove Snapper, Redfish, and Spotted Seatrout. In addition to those beautiful and delicious fish, you might hook a Sheepshead or a Snook. This trip offers the opportunity for children to learn new fishing skills like Bottom Fishing, Drift Fishing, and Trolling. You will also learn to use both heavy and light tackle. Captain Jimmy is an experienced angler and a great instructor, making this trip perfect for children. His 26’ Donzi is powered by a 225 HP Mercury which makes for a smooth ride across the calm flats. It comes equipped with a flybridge to enjoy the sea breeze and an icebox to store your catch. Captain Jimmy provides all the equipment you need as well as fishing licenses for the whole family! Be sure to bring sunblock and polarized sunglasses, as it can get hot out there! You will also want to bring water and snacks to ensure a great time. Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Holmes Beach

Family Fun Fishing Excursion

NEW
26 ft 1 - 6 People $$
See All Sheepshead Trips in Sarasota

Everything to Know About Booking a Sarasota sheepshead fishing charter

What are the best sheepshead fishing charters in Sarasota?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 28 sheepshead trips in Sarasota, and the most popular trips in the area are Sarasota Classic Trip guided by James, Sarasota Inshore/Nearshore guided by Darius, and Sarasota 1/2 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox guided by Scott.

Our guides in Sarasota are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2538 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 Sheepshead charter include St. Petersburg, Holmes Beach and Ruskin.

Looking for kid friendly sheepshead guides / fishing lessons in Sarasota? Check out our beginner and family friendly sheepshead guides in Sarasota.

What types of sheepshead fishing charters are common in Sarasota?

Inshore fishing is the most popular for sheepshead in Sarasota as well as flats fishing, nearshore fishing, and river fishing.

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

How much do Sarasota sheepshead fishing charters cost?

for sheepshead in Sarasota prices can range anywhere from about $500 to $1,038, but the average price for a half day trip for sheepshead in Sarasota is $597. The average price for a full day trip for sheepshead in Sarasota is $919.

What month is best for sheepshead fishing in Sarasota?

The most popular season for sheepshead fishing in Sarasota is spring, and most anglers book their trips 6 days in advance.

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

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Sarasota don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Sarasota.

What is sheepshead in Sarasota all about?

Sheepshead (Archosargus probatocephalus) are a popular species among anglers in Sarasota, known for their distinctive appearance and delicious flavor. These fish, named for their prominent teeth resembling those of sheep, inhabit a variety of habitats, including bridges, docks, pilings, and rocky structures. Sheepshead are opportunistic feeders, primarily consuming crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp, as well as mollusks and small fish. Sarasota's coastal waters provide ample opportunities for anglers to target sheepshead year-round, offering exciting fishing experiences and rewarding catches.

Fishing for sheepshead in Sarasota often involves bottom fishing near structures where these fish congregate to feed. Anglers typically use light to medium tackle and small hooks baited with fiddler crabs, sand fleas, or pieces of shrimp to entice strikes from sheepshead. Patience and finesse are key when targeting these crafty fish, as they have a reputation for stealing bait with their sensitive bites. Anglers may also find success using artificial lures such as small jigs or soft plastics, particularly when targeting sheepshead in deeper water or during periods of high tidal movement.

While sheepshead can be caught year-round in Sarasota, anglers may find greater success during certain times of the year when these fish are more active and abundant. During the cooler months, from fall through early spring, sheepshead often gather in larger numbers nearshore and around structures such as bridges and docks, making them more accessible to anglers. Understanding the habits and preferences of sheepshead, 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 sheepshead in Sarasota?

In Sarasota, the seasons for targeting sheepshead can vary throughout the year, influenced by factors such as water temperature, spawning behavior, and tidal movements. While sheepshead 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 sheepshead fishing seasons in Sarasota, as these fish become more active and move into shallower waters to feed and spawn.

During the cooler months, sheepshead are often found inhabiting nearshore areas, including bridges, docks, and rocky structures, where they congregate to feed on crustaceans and other prey. These fish are known for their strong teeth and ability to crush shells, making them well-adapted to feeding on crabs, shrimp, and mollusks. Anglers targeting sheepshead during this time can capitalize on their increased activity and abundance by using baits such as fiddler crabs, sand fleas, or shrimp presented near the bottom.

While sheepshead 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 sheepshead behavior and feeding activity. By staying informed and adapting their strategies to the seasonal rhythms of sheepshead, anglers in Sarasota can enjoy rewarding fishing experiences and the satisfaction of hooking into these prized catches.

What techniques are popular for catching sheepshead in Sarasota?

Fishing for sheepshead in Sarasota requires a blend of patience, finesse, and understanding of their feeding habits and habitat preferences. One effective technique is bottom fishing near structures such as bridges, docks, and rocky outcroppings, where sheepshead often congregate to feed. Anglers typically use light to medium tackle and small hooks baited with fiddler crabs, sand fleas, or pieces of shrimp to entice strikes from sheepshead. These fish are known for their cautious feeding behavior, so anglers may need to employ subtle movements and sensitive rigs to detect their bites.

Another successful technique for targeting sheepshead in Sarasota is jigging with artificial lures or soft plastics. Anglers can use small jigs or soft plastics designed to mimic crustaceans or small baitfish, presenting them near the bottom where sheepshead are feeding. Jigging allows anglers to cover a larger area and explore different depths, increasing their chances of encountering sheepshead. This technique can be particularly effective when fishing in deeper water or around structures where sheepshead may be holding.

Sarasota's coastal waters offer a variety of habitats where sheepshead can be found, from shallow flats to deeper channels and reefs. Anglers should adjust their fishing techniques and locations based on factors such as water depth, tidal movements, and structure type to maximize their chances of success. By experimenting with different baits, rigs, and presentation methods, anglers in Sarasota can enjoy thrilling encounters with sheepshead and bring home a tasty catch for the dinner table.

What other species are popular in Sarasota?

Apart from targeting sheepshead, anglers exploring the waters of Sarasota have a diverse array of other species to pursue, offering varied fishing opportunities in the area's rich marine ecosystem. One popular target among anglers is the snook, known for its elusive nature and powerful fighting ability. Snook can be found in a variety of habitats, including mangrove-lined shorelines, tidal creeks, and nearshore flats, where they ambush prey in the moving tides. Anglers often use live bait such as pilchards or artificial lures like topwater plugs or swimbaits to entice strikes from these prized game fish.

Another sought-after species in Sarasota's waters is the redfish, also known as red drum, prized for its powerful runs and aggressive strikes. Redfish are commonly found in shallow flats, mangrove-lined creeks, and around oyster bars, where they forage for crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Anglers target redfish using a variety of techniques, including sight fishing with live or artificial baits and casting to structure with lures. These hard-fighting fish provide anglers with thrilling battles and memorable catches, making them a favorite among local and visiting fishermen alike.

In addition to snook and redfish, anglers in Sarasota can also pursue a variety of other species, including tarpon, trout, and flounder. 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.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great afternoon of fishing with Captain Wade in Tampa Bay; catching snook and redfish. Wade knows the bay well and he put us in the right spot for the conditions. We were originally scheduled for a Sunday morning trip but when the weather was not looking favorable, he offered to put in an extra long day and take us on Saturday afternoon. He works well with all skill levels and I highly recommend him for your next fishing trip!

    Ben R. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Wade was great! We were a bit late getting to the dock due to downtown traffic and we still went out on the water and had a good time. We caught some trout and sheepshead and so many lady fish! He was very informative on techniques and areas to fish. He kept the ride smooth and it was just a beautiful day on the water. So much wildlife out there, dolphins, ducks, pelicans and much more! Thank you for a great day on the water!

    Ashley R. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome day on the water with Tommy! He kept us on the fish and sharks all day. If you are looking for an experience like you are out fishing with one of your buddies, Tommy is the type of guide for you.

    Justin L. with Tommy M. of Apollo Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Best time with Capt Jusn and my son. His first time fishing on the Gulf

    David C. with Juan H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Caught lots of fish. Great communication before and during trip. Lots of fun. Will book with him again.

    Lannie C. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Caught lots of fish. Great communication before and during trip. Super fun time. Will book from again.

    Lannie C. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Taylor was great to fish with. We had my 3 year old son, my 70 year old father and my 14 year old nephew on the boat. Everyone had a blast and got a fish on a day that was not ideal conditions for fishing. Highly recommend and plan to use him and Alex again in the future.

    Bill Z. with Taylor C. of Bradenton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Definitely worth it!

    Matt M. with Thomas D. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Darius was very informative and always helpful during out inshore fishing trip. He was always considering when it was best to move to a new location to provide the best fishing experience. He was also great to talk to and share thoughts about the area.

    Todd W. with Darius K. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Juan was a ton of fun! The man really knows his stuff about fishing in the St. Petersburg area. We caught tons of fish and he gave us a high quality service. Couldn’t suggest him enough!

    Jasuan C. with Juan H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

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

    Theresa M. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    I booked this trip for my sister and brother in law visiting from out of state. They caught a lot of fish and had a great time. We defiantly would use brook in the future.

    Mark F. with Brook W. of Bradenton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Wade was the absolute best! He came fully prepared with the best rods and plenty of bait to last the entire day. His expertise is second to none, a true professional. On top of that, he put us on fish all day long.

    David S. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Wade was awesome. We caught fish on the first cast, literally. It took about 30 seconds. I took my kids and my son-in-law and we had a fantastic time. I highly recommend Wade and I will definitely be back!

    Quint W. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great captain, wife wanted to see some dolphins and he found some dolphins. Caught a few fish would have been nice to go for the reds but the weather was not on are side that day.

    Jeremy A. with Juan H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Wade was great! Patient with us newbie fishermen and didn't give up trying to find us fish for dinner. Great time. Thanks!

    Henry C. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Hank was awesome! Called the day before to make a plan on what to fish for. Result was sharks, which my 9 year old son was out of his mind excited for. On the half day trip, we caught 5 sharks and probably 50 bait fish…an unforgettable experience!!

    James L. with Hank V. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captan James was a great guy as well as a great Captain. He put my family on exactly what we were looking to catch and sent us home with a good meal. I would recommend him any day.

    Brian W. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

What's biting in Sarasota?

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