Bonnethead Shark Fishing Charters In St. Petersburg

Easily find a St. Petersburg fishing guide that fits your needs. Confidently book your next day on the water.

4.87/5 Average Rating


Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Bonnethead Shark Fishing Charters Near St. Petersburg, Fl

Damn Good

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg Inshore Adventures

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $100 / person
Damn Good

Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St Petersburg Inshore Fishing!!!

NEW
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $130 / person

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Shark Hunt

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $150 / person

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

100% (9)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $113 / person

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota 1/2 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox

NEW
22 ft 1 - 3 People From $167 / person

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Apollo Beach

Tampa Bay Flats, Mangroves & Bay

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $175 / person

Most Popular Types of Bonnethead Shark Trips in St. Petersburg

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Choose your trip by skill level

More Bonnethead Shark Fishing Charters Near St. Petersburg, Fl

Attention anglers! If you're looking for the ultimate fishing adventure, look no further! This Inshore-focused charter with Captain Christopher in Ruskin, Florida is one of the best charters on Florida's Gulf coast, and is an absolute blast for anglers of all levels. Captain Christopher is a seasoned pro with years of experience navigating the waters of Tampa Bay, and he knows exactly where to find the best gamefish in the area. On this trip, you'll be exploring the nearshore water around Tampa Bay, looking for big fish. These fish are fun to fight and absolutely delicious when filleted, and are known for taking all kinds of bait and putting up a serious battle! But it's not just about the fishing. Captain Christopher's charters are all about creating a unique and memorable experience for his guests. His custom-built 21’ Clearwater 2000CC bay boat is fully equipped with all the necessary gear and amenities, including a shaded T-top and an open deck for soaking up the sun. The sleek design of this shallow-draft vessel allows for a comfortable drift, so you can fish all day without getting tired. There’s also a Bluetooth stereo, so feel free to bring your favorite playlist! Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the beauty of Ruskin, Florida's waterways and catch some of the most sought-after fish in the Gulf. Book your charter fishing trip with Captain Christopher today and make your fishing dreams a reality! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Ruskin Fishing Classic

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $113 / person

If you're looking for that next level fishing trip, you've come to the right spot. These trips obviously will be targeting limits on this delicious species, but Captain Frankie will help you keep the biggest ones for your limit at that! Depending on the day and how hot the honey holes, you could come back to the dock with a limit for of doormat sized snapper! Now fishing isn't catching, but Captain Frankie is here to go above and beyond to do whatever it takes to ensure you have an incredible experience and are dam near the closest thing to a guarantee you can get! These trips involve a quick haul offshore to get to one of Captain Frankie's marked locations on his GPS. The fishing grounds are usually offshore structure like reefs and other live bottoms. Both grouper & snapper species like to hang near the bottom at these structures and usually congregate in high numbers! You will most likely be using a bottom rig including a heavier weight rod and a hefty weight tied on beneath. There is no hook set involved but you can bet your bottom dollar, you'll know soon enough that the fight is on! Nothing makes Captain Frankie more pleased than delivering on your goals for the day! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Grouper And Snapper Trips

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $150 / person
Damn Good

Get out there and enjoy a fun, laid-back light tackle sportfishing trip on beautiful Tampa Bay. On this trip with Captain Wade, you'll be going after classic species including snook, redfish, seatrout, and more! There are multiple options for your adventure, so you can find what's best for you. On the three-hour charter, you'll get a great introduction to Tampa Bay and have time to catch multiple species of fish. This is ideal for visitors, first-timers, couples, seniors, or parents with children of all ages. Of course, you'll be treated to professional, family-friendly service and courteous expert instruction. Four hours provides a greater opportunity to cover a larger area of Tampa Bay and catch more fish. Many people find this amount of time ideal for entertaining friends, clientele or hosting bachelor parties. Have a blast, while competing to see who catches the biggest fish or most fish. Six hours is highly recommended to maximize your fishing adventure on Tampa Bay. This charter is ideal for avid anglers, and enthusiasts looking to hone their inshore angling skills. Experience fishing numerous grass flats, mangrove shorelines, oyster beds, creeks and back-bays. No matter the adventure you select, you'll have a great time fishing with Captain Wade! He provides premium spin, fly or plug fishing tackle such as G-Loomis, Penn, Sage and Tibor. Live-bait, flies, artificial lures, ice, bottled drinking water and sunscreen lotion is also provided. He will also fillet, bag, and ice your catch, should you decide to keep some fish for lunch or dinner! His 24' Sheaffer is an ideal boat for fishing this inshore environment and was refurbished in 2022 with brand-new electronics and motor. Get out there and enjoy all that Tampa Bay has to offer! Afishionado, "Always an Adventure." Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $100 / person

On this 6 hour trip with Captain Scott, you'll have plenty of time to try trolling the deeper waters, as well as bottom fishing the shallows. Feel free to ask the captain to bring some fly fishing gear as well, and get the most out of your Sarasota Bay fishing excursion. Go after Snappers, Groupers, Cobia, and more along the reefs. While inshore, you'll do battle with Sheepshead, Trout, Redfish, and Sharks. Please, have in mind that 735-pound is the weight limit combined for guests, which is usually equal to 3 adults or 2 adults with 2 kids. Everything is provided on Captain Scott's trips including licenses, fishing gear, bait, and ice. So all you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, and Captain Scott will make sure you have a great time out on the water! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota 3/4 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox

NEW
22 ft 1 - 3 People From $217 / person

Head out with Captain Christopher for a half, 3/4, or full day of fishing around the inshore waters and flats of Southshore Tampa Bay. 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! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Ruskin

Inshore Fishing Slam

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $113 / person
Damn Good

Head out to fish the waters around Tampa with Captain Nick for an awesome day out on the water slaying the fish! Captain Nick - with his 15+ years of experience - will take you where the fish are biting. He will help you reel in Trout, Redfish, Flounder, and Grouper which are in the bay all year long, as well as Tarpon and Cobia if you want to target them during the summer months. For these trips, Captain Nick uses his 22’ Aguasport bay boat, which comes with the latest marine electronics and safety gear. It can accommodate up to 4 anglers fishing in full comfort and can accommodate up to 6 if the last two adventurers are small children. Captain Nick provides all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring are your favorite snack and drinks, your sun protection, and your camera to record your trophies! Bring your kids or your angling buddies and head out for a fishing adventure to remember with Captain Nick! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Tampa Bay Fishing - 22’ Aguasport

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $163 / person
See All Bonnethead Shark Trips in St. Petersburg

Everything to Know About Booking a St. Petersburg bonnethead shark fishing charter

What are the best bonnethead shark fishing charters in St. Petersburg?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 16 bonnethead shark trips in St. Petersburg, and the most popular trips in the area are St. Petersburg Inshore Adventures guided by Wade and St Petersburg inshore Fishing!!! guided by George.

Our guides in St. Petersburg are rated a 4.87 out of 5 based on 2417 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 Bonnethead Shark charter include Ruskin, Tampa and Holmes Beach.

Looking for kid friendly bonnethead shark guides in St. Petersburg? Check out our beginner and family friendly bonnethead shark guides in St. Petersburg.

What types of bonnethead shark fishing charters are common in St. Petersburg?

Inshore fishing is the most popular for bonnethead shark in St. Petersburg as well as nearshore fishing, flats fishing, and river fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in St. Petersburg are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and bottom fishing but cut bait fishing and jigging are popular as well.

How much do St. Petersburg bonnethead shark fishing charters cost?

for bonnethead shark in St. Petersburg prices can range anywhere from an affordable $300 to $1,600, but the average price for a half day trip for bonnethead shark in St. Petersburg is $517. The average price for a full day trip for bonnethead shark in St. Petersburg is $903.

What month is best for bonnethead shark fishing in St. Petersburg?

The most popular season for bonnethead shark fishing in St. Petersburg is spring, and most anglers book their trips 9 days in advance.

Do I need a St. Petersburg fishing license for bonnethead shark and what are the bag limits for bonnethead shark in St. Petersburg?

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg.

What is bonnethead shark fishing in St. Petersburg all about?

In St. Petersburg, Florida, the bonnethead shark, scientifically known as Sphyrna tiburo, is a fascinating species that adds excitement to the local fishing scene. Often referred to as the "small hammerhead," bonnethead sharks are part of the hammerhead shark family and are distinguishable by their unique shovel-shaped heads. These sharks inhabit the shallow coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico, including bays, estuaries, and nearshore flats, making them accessible to anglers of all skill levels.

Anglers in St. Petersburg often target bonnethead sharks for their thrilling fights and the opportunity to observe these curious creatures up close. Bonnetheads are primarily carnivorous, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, making them susceptible to a variety of bait presentations. Anglers typically use cut bait, such as mullet or ladyfish, or live baitfish like pinfish or mullet, to entice bonnethead sharks. Additionally, artificial lures resembling small baitfish or shrimp can also be effective when targeting these sharks in shallow waters.

Bonnethead sharks can be caught year-round in St. Petersburg, but they are most abundant during the warmer months, from spring through fall. During this time, water temperatures rise, and bonnetheads become more active and prevalent in the shallows. Anglers often find success targeting bonnethead sharks in the early morning or late afternoon when they are actively feeding. With their small size and manageable strength, bonnethead sharks provide anglers in St. Petersburg with exciting opportunities for catch-and-release shark fishing adventures in the beautiful coastal waters of the Gulf Coast.

What are the most popular months to fish for bonnethead shark fishing in St. Petersburg?

In St. Petersburg, Florida, bonnethead shark fishing seasons offer anglers opportunities throughout the year, with variations influenced by factors such as water temperature, weather conditions, and fish behavior. While bonnethead sharks can be found in the area's coastal waters year-round, their presence tends to be more pronounced during certain seasons. Generally, prime seasons for targeting bonnethead sharks in St. Petersburg coincide with the warmer months of spring, summer, and early fall.

Spring marks the onset of the bonnethead shark season in St. Petersburg, with increasing water temperatures triggering an uptick in fish activity. As temperatures rise, bonnethead sharks become more active and move into shallower waters, making them more accessible to anglers. Summer offers peak bonnethead shark fishing opportunities, as these sharks are abundant in the region's coastal bays, estuaries, and nearshore flats. During this time, anglers can expect to encounter larger numbers of bonnethead sharks and enjoy thrilling catch-and-release fishing experiences.

While spring and summer are considered prime seasons for bonnethead shark fishing in St. Petersburg, opportunities for catching these sharks extend into the early fall months. As temperatures begin to cool slightly, bonnethead sharks may continue to inhabit the area's shallow coastal waters, providing anglers with additional chances to target these fascinating creatures. With careful planning and strategic fishing techniques, anglers in St. Petersburg can enjoy exciting encounters with bonnethead sharks year-round in the scenic waters of the Gulf Coast.

What techniques are popular for catching bonnethead shark in St. Petersburg?

In St. Petersburg, Florida, anglers use various techniques to target bonnethead sharks, adapting to their behavior and habitat preferences. One effective method for catching bonnethead sharks is bottom fishing with natural baits. Anglers typically anchor or drift in shallow coastal waters, targeting areas such as bays, estuaries, and nearshore flats where bonnetheads are known to frequent. Using light to medium tackle and sturdy rigs, anglers present baits such as cut fish, squid, or shrimp near the bottom, allowing them to drift naturally in the current or tide. This method requires patience and attentiveness, as anglers must be prepared to detect subtle strikes from these shy and cautious sharks.

Another popular technique for bonnethead shark fishing in St. Petersburg is sight fishing in shallow waters. Anglers often use kayaks, paddleboards, or flats boats to quietly navigate the shallows, scanning the water for signs of cruising sharks. Once a bonnethead shark is spotted, anglers cast their baits or lures ahead of the shark's path, allowing them to intercept and entice a strike. This method requires stealth and precision, as anglers must approach the sharks cautiously to avoid spooking them.

Chumming is also an effective technique for bonnethead shark fishing in St. Petersburg. Anglers create a chum slick by dispersing small pieces of baitfish or ground-up fish into the water, attracting bonnethead sharks to the area. Once the sharks are actively feeding, anglers present their baits or lures in the chum slick, enticing strikes from hungry sharks. This method can be particularly productive when fishing in deeper water or targeting larger bonnethead sharks. With their keen sense of smell and curious nature, bonnethead sharks can provide anglers in St. Petersburg with exciting and memorable fishing experiences in the scenic waters of the Gulf Coast.

What other species are popular in St. Petersburg?

Aside from targeting bonnethead sharks, anglers in St. Petersburg, Florida, have a diverse array of species to pursue, offering thrilling fishing opportunities in the region's coastal waters. One popular species among anglers is the spotted sea trout, also known as speckled trout or spotted weakfish. These prized game fish are abundant in the area's bays, estuaries, and grass flats, providing anglers with exciting opportunities for inshore fishing adventures. Anglers target spotted sea trout using a variety of techniques, including live bait fishing, artificial lure presentations, and fly fishing, making them accessible to anglers of all skill levels.

Another sought-after species in St. Petersburg's waters is the snook, known for its powerful runs and acrobatic leaps. Snook inhabit the region's estuaries, mangrove shorelines, and tidal creeks, offering anglers thrilling opportunities for inshore and nearshore fishing. Anglers target snook using live bait such as pilchards or shrimp, as well as artificial lures like topwater plugs and soft plastics, presenting them near structure-rich areas such as docks, bridges, and mangroves. With their impressive size and strength, snook provide anglers in St. Petersburg with exhilarating battles and memorable catches.

For anglers seeking offshore adventures, king mackerel, also known as kingfish, offer exciting opportunities in the offshore waters of St. Petersburg. These pelagic predators roam the offshore waters, particularly around bait schools and current edges. Anglers target king mackerel using trolling techniques with spoons, plugs, or rigged baits, covering a wide area of water to locate active fish. With their blistering runs and strong fighting ability, king mackerel provide anglers in St. Petersburg an adrenaline-fueled fishing experience in the beautiful coastal waters of the Gulf Coast.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic experience. Son and I caught 7-8 big Amber jacks!! Then on the way in saw a mako shark!! Caught lots of small fish that tasted awesome blackened in tacos!!!

    Chris H. with Greg M. of St. Petersburg, 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

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Dmitri S. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an absolutely awesome experience with Captain Greg and Deckhand Ali. We knew ahead of time that the water was going to be a bit choppy and that there would be higher than usual winds, but that didn’t deter the Captain from finding perfect fishing spots for us on our half day charter. Both fellas are super knowledgeable and shared lots of gulf marine life info with us; even stopping to check crab traps and showing us how the eco system is balance. An added bonus is the restaurant located at the marina where the fishing vessel docks; Greg filleted our fish haul from the day and the super friendly staff cooked up our catch and served up tacos for a late lunch. If in the area again, we’d definitely book Captain Greg and his friendly Deckhand Ali for our fishing excursion. They are an awesome team.

    Leah G. with Greg M. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Definitely worth it!

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

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome morning with our terrific guide. Could not have been better. Thanks.

    Chip B. with Andrew C. of St. Petersburg, 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

  • ★★★★★
    Had an absolute fabulous time with Capt. Ray! Top 10 bucket list day! Very responsive, professional and provided exactly what we asked for.

    Brian C. with Ray C. of St. Petersburg, 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

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Captain Ron F. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We all had a great time during the fishing trip. We caught quite a few fish that we got to keep. The deck hand was on top of his game and took good care of us as we were catching fish. The Captain had a cooler of water, a bathroom on board and cleaned all of our fish for us. My daughter and I got a little sea sick but we all had a great time regardless.

    Patti K. with Greg M. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Ray was great with our kids and got us into a lot of fish. Load of fun.

    Jasin P. with Ray C. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    The trip I had with Captain Roy was amazing! Being from out of town he was very helpful because I'm used to fishing for pan fish and fishing in Florida is a little different then that. My buddy, his 6 year old son, and I all had a lot of laughs and caught some fish. Caught my biggest fish and got to see a dolphin swimming around our boat. I'll definitely be planning on another trip with Captain Roy.

    Mark C. with Roy J. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    It was a slow morning but our guide kept moving and trying spots. Was talking with other guide friends to get on a hot bite but it was slow for everyone. We did get some keeper sheep head and the guide was easy to talk to. I would try again with them if we get back here again.

    Robert K. with Thomas D. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome day fishing with Adam! He was an awesome guide and we ended the day catching a shark! Adam thanks for the great memories!

    Tom J. with Adam H. of St. Petersburg, 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

  • ★★★★★
    Great Captain and first mate! Captain Greg put us on some big fish, Barracuda, and Goliath Grouper! Logan kept us informed and helped every step of the way! We had a blast!

    Jack H. with Greg M. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great Captain and first mate! Logan took care of us while Captain Greg put us on fish! Caught a ton, was able to keep 26! Great day!

    Jack H. with Greg M. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Hank was a great captain! My brother & I had a lot of fun on our excursion!

    Caroline E. with Hank V. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had the most awesome experience offshore fishing with Captain Adam on Playin’ Hooky! He was ready and waiting for us at the boat ramp, before the sun came up. As soon as we met him, we knew we were going to have an awesome time! The boat was brand new, clean, and spacious. We wanted fish to eat and the experience of reeling in some big ones. Captain Adam did not disappoint! He put us right on top of them! He cleaned our fish and we went straight to the restaurant to have them prepared. Thank you, Adam, for the experience of a lifetime!

    Rebecca M. with Adam H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

What's biting in St. Petersburg?

View Bonnethead Shark 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 licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country 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 Bonnethead Shark Trips in St. Petersburg