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Recently Booked Inshore Fishing Charters Near St. Petersburg, Fl
Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg
Florida Snook, Jacks, And Reds
Most Popular Types of Inshore Trips in St. Petersburg
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More Inshore Fishing Charters Near St. Petersburg, Fl
If you're looking to get on some spectacular inshore sportfish in the Tampa Bay/St. Pete area, there's no better guide than Captain Thomas. He's been fishing these waters for more than two decades, and he's studied the prime spots and best holes in order to put you on record-setting fish! You'll be targeting classic inshore species such as Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Snook—sometimes known as the "Florida Triple" or the "Florida Grand Slam". These fish are all great fighters, and are an absolute blast to catch, whether it's your first time out there, or your thousandth. You'll be chasing bites using light-tackle techniques, fishing both live bait and lures depending on the season, water conditions, and weather. Captain Thomas is a pro, and he's got an array of tips and tricks to help you hook a personal best! Thomas runs his trips aboard his 22' Century bay boat—an ideal vessel for hunting lunkers in inshore waters. She's fast, with a 250-HP Yamaha engine, and a hull profile that's sharp enough to cut through chop and shallow enough to get into backcountry channels where big fish like to congregate. She's also equipped with a wireless trolling motor to help you sneak up on your targets, plus a live well for bait and an ice box for your keepers. Everything you need will be provided for you, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunscreen (lotion only, no spray!), a hat, and a pair of sunglasses to cut the surface glare. Get out there and have a blast! Read More
If you're looking to get on some spectacular Tarpon fishing in the Tampa Bay/St. Pete area, there's no better guide than Captain Thomas. He's been fishing these waters for more than two decades, and he's studied the prime spots and best holes in order to put you on record-setting fish! On this trip, you'll be focused on catching Tarpon, the premier Florida gamefish. These fish are big, beautiful, and known worldwide for their ferocious fighting abilities and acrobatic leaps! Commonly known as the "Silver King", these fish are the top predators in their inshore habitat, and hooking one is the experience of a lifetime. You'll chase bites using light tackle techniques with both bait and lures. Tarpon behavior changes depending on the season, the water conditions, and even the phases of the moon, so Captain Thomas' expertise here is absolutely invaluable. Thomas runs his trips aboard his 22' Century bay boat—an ideal vessel for hunting lunkers in inshore waters. She's fast, with a 250-HP Yamaha engine, and a hull profile that's sharp enough to cut through chop and shallow enough to get into backcountry channels where monster Tarpon like to congregate. She's also equipped with a wireless trolling motor to help you sneak up on your targets, plus a live well for bait. Tarpon fishing is catch-and-release only, so bring a camera! Everything you need will be provided for you, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to bring is sunscreen (lotion only, no spray!), a hat, and a pair of sunglasses to cut the surface glare. Get out there and have a blast! Read More
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 kids, young or old. 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 St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg Inshore Adventures
Come have some serious fun and explore some of the most prolific waters in the area with Captain Andy! Captain Andy has a keen eye for where the fish bite. He likes to launch out of Crisp Park which is the closest boat ramp to Weadon Island Preserve. Weadon Island provides a sanctuary for all kinds of wildlife especially big reds, trout, snook, and flounder! Listen to his advice and you’ll be catching some trophy-sized fish in no time! Captain Andy specializes in catching multiple species in the same day so if you're looking to target and inshore slam, Captain Andy is an awesome choice! On this 4- or 6-hour escapade, you will be working the water around Weadon Island aboard Captain Andy’s 24.5-foot Center Console equipped with one 300 HP Yamaha. This boat is outfitted with a GPS, Fishfinder, live bait well, and an ice box. It can accommodate four anglers, so make sure you bring some good company! Captain Andy will provide all rods, reels, tackle, live bait, and licenses. He’ll also provide chips, granola, energy bars, as well as bottled water. You may also bring your own food and beverages. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and a cooler with ice to take home your day’s catch. Test your skills and strength and fill the boat on what promises to be an exhilarating day with Captain Andy! Read More
Come experience Tampa Bay and the variety of fishing experiences! We will be fishing out of a 22 foot Skeeter bay boat with all the bells and whistles... She is equipped with a Yamaha 250 SHO, a Garmin fishfinder/GPS, Minn-Kota trolling motor, Powerpole, Fusion stereo, 2 livewells, and an 80 quart Engel cooler! Primary types of fishing include but not limited to grass flats, mangrove shorelines, nearshore wrecks and ledges, docks, etc... Primary species targeted are snook, trout, redfish, spanish mackerel, snapper, grouper, tarpon, and more! I look forward to showing you a great day and making memories in Tampa Bay! Read More
Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg Inshore Trip
Captain Mike knows just where the fish bite around these parts, so listen closely to his advice - you could land yourself a trophy-sized fish! You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Mike’s 24-foot Mako, a center console that is equipped with a 225 HP Johnson Evinrude engine. She also comes with a GPS, fishfinder, live bait well, and an ice box. He will bring the energy as well as his drone and go pro so he can shoot quality videos while you reel in the likes of Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, Trout, Sheepshead and maybe even catch an epic shot of a Silver King soaring out of the water! Captain Mike likes to launch out of two different spots in the St. Pete area: Maximo is where he goes to wear out sheepshead, trout, and other inshore species for some rod bending action. His other launch is E.G. Simmons park which gives you closer access to the backcountry where you can chase Big Reds and Snook! All the rods, reels, tackle, lures, licenses, and live bait come included with your trip, and Captain Mike will also clean and fillet your fish after your trip at no extra charge! He will have bottled waters on board, but feel free to bring your own food and beverages. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and a cooler with ice to take home your day’s catch. No matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, Captain Mike will lead the way! Read More
Everything to Know About Booking a St. Petersburg inshore fishing charter
What are the best inshore fishing charters in St. Petersburg?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 109 inshore trips in St. Petersburg, and the most popular trips in the area are Half-Day Quick Trip guided by Juan, 4-8 Hour Fishing Trip guided by Hank, and St. Pete Bowfishing guided by Thomas.
Our guides in St. Petersburg are rated a 4.95 out of 5 based on 2525 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 an Inshore charter include Clearwater, Ruskin and Holmes Beach.
Looking for kid friendly inshore guides / fishing lessons in St. Petersburg? Check out our beginner and family friendly inshore guides in St. Petersburg.
What types of inshore fishing charters are common in St. Petersburg?
The most commonly sought after species for inshore Fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. snook, 3. speckled trout, and 4. mangrove snapper.
The most common fishing techniques in St. Petersburg are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but bottom fishing and drift fishing are popular as well.
How much do St. Petersburg inshore fishing charters cost?
for inshore fishing in St. Petersburg prices can range anywhere from an affordable $300 to $2,700, but the average price for a half day trip for inshore fishing in St. Petersburg is $594. The average price for a full day trip for inshore fishing in St. Petersburg is $924.
What month is best for inshore fishing in St. Petersburg?
The most popular season for inshore fishing in St. Petersburg is spring, and most anglers book their trips 12 days in advance.
Do I need a St. Petersburg fishing license and what are the bag limits 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 inshore fishing in St. Petersburg all about?
Inshore fishing in St. Petersburg, Florida, provides anglers with an unparalleled experience in the heart of the Sunshine State. Nestled along the Gulf Coast, St. Petersburg boasts a thriving inshore ecosystem that attracts a diverse range of fish species. The expansive Tampa Bay, renowned for its rich biodiversity, serves as a prime location for inshore fishing adventures. Anglers can target prized catches such as snook, redfish, and spotted sea trout amidst the lush mangrove-lined shores and seagrass beds.
One notable aspect of inshore fishing in St. Petersburg is the year-round accessibility due to the region's mild climate. Even in the winter months, when other areas might be less favorable, St. Petersburg continues to offer productive inshore fishing opportunities. Spring and fall, however, are particularly popular seasons, with the warming or cooling waters triggering increased fish activity. Whether you're exploring the intricate waterways, casting near oyster bars, or navigating the flats, the inshore waters of St. Petersburg cater to both seasoned anglers and those new to the thrill of fishing.
Local guides and charters play a pivotal role in enhancing the inshore fishing experience in St. Petersburg. Their expertise not only ensures that anglers are taken to the most promising spots but also provides valuable insights into the habits and behaviors of the local fish species. With the backdrop of stunning sunsets and the gentle sway of palm trees, inshore fishing in St. Petersburg is more than a sport; it's an immersive and relaxing adventure that captures the essence of Florida's coastal charm.
What species are most popular inshore fishing in St. Petersburg?
Inshore fishing in St. Petersburg offers a diverse array of species, making it a haven for anglers seeking thrilling catches. One of the most prized targets is the snook, a feisty and elusive fish known for its powerful runs and acrobatic leaps. These silver-sided predators are abundant in the mangroves, residential canals, and around docks, providing a challenging pursuit for anglers of all skill levels. Redfish are another sought-after species, with their copper-colored tails and robust fight. Exploring the grass flats and oyster bars in St. Petersburg's inshore waters can lead to exciting encounters with these hard-fighting redfish.
Spotted sea trout, often referred to simply as "specks," are a staple in inshore fishing around St. Petersburg. These speckled beauties thrive in the seagrass beds and sandy bottoms of Tampa Bay, offering anglers a chance to reel in both quantity and quality. The inshore waters are also home to mangrove snapper, flounder, and sheepshead, providing anglers with a mix of challenges and rewards. Whether you prefer casting along the mangroves or drifting over the grassy flats, St. Petersburg's inshore fishing promises encounters with a variety of species that showcase the rich marine life of the Gulf Coast.
St. Petersburg's inshore waters are not only abundant in game fish but also host a thriving population of tarpon. Known for their impressive size and acrobatic leaps, tarpon are a favorite among anglers seeking an adrenaline-pumping challenge. Spring and summer are prime seasons for targeting tarpon, particularly around the bridges, passes, and deeper channels. The opportunity to hook into one of these majestic silver kings adds an extra layer of excitement to the already exhilarating inshore fishing experience in St. Petersburg.
What are the inshore fishing seasons in St. Petersburg?
Inshore fishing in St. Petersburg is a year-round adventure, with each season offering its own unique opportunities and challenges. Spring marks the onset of heightened activity as the waters warm up, enticing species like snook, redfish, and spotted sea trout to become more active. Anglers can take advantage of this season to explore the expansive grass flats, mangrove-lined shorelines, and oyster bars, presenting them with a diverse range of habitats to target different species. Spring also sees the arrival of baitfish, intensifying the feeding frenzy and making it an exciting time for inshore fishing enthusiasts.
As summer arrives in St. Petersburg, the inshore waters continue to thrive with activity. This season is particularly rewarding for those targeting tarpon, known for their spectacular leaps and formidable size. Summer provides favorable conditions for anglers to pursue these majestic silver kings around bridges, passes, and deeper channels. Additionally, redfish and spotted sea trout remain active during the warmer months, offering anglers plenty of opportunities to test their skills against these challenging species. The longer days and warmer temperatures make summer an ideal time for inshore fishing adventures in St. Petersburg.
Fall in St. Petersburg signals a transition period, with cooling waters and the promise of exciting fishing experiences. As the temperatures moderate, redfish and snook activity continues, providing anglers with continued opportunities to hook into these formidable adversaries. Fall is also an excellent time for spotted sea trout, as they become more abundant in the seagrass beds. The inshore fishing season in St. Petersburg doesn't slow down as winter approaches, ensuring that anglers can enjoy the thrill of the catch throughout the year in this vibrant coastal destination.
What techniques are popular for inshore fishing in St. Petersburg?
Inshore fishing in St. Petersburg requires a versatile set of techniques to navigate the diverse habitats and species that inhabit the region's waters. One popular technique is flats fishing, where anglers target species like snook and redfish in the shallow flats and grassy areas. This method often involves using live bait, such as shrimp or small baitfish, to entice the fish in the clear and shallow waters. Flats fishing requires a stealthy approach, with anglers quietly poling or drifting to avoid spooking the fish in the shallows.
Casting along the mangroves is another effective technique in St. Petersburg's inshore waters. Mangroves provide shelter and food for various species, including snook and redfish. Anglers can use artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater baits to target these fish near the mangroves. Accurate casting and precise presentations are crucial in this technique, as the mangroves can offer challenging environments to navigate.
For those seeking a more laid-back approach, dock fishing is a popular technique in St. Petersburg. Many docks and piers provide excellent structure for fish to congregate. Anglers can use live bait or artificial lures to target species like sheepshead, mangrove snapper, and redfish around these structures. Dock fishing is accessible and family-friendly, making it a great option for anglers of all skill levels to enjoy inshore fishing in St. Petersburg's picturesque waterways.
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How are fishing conditions in St. Petersburg?
View St. Petersburg Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.
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