Damn Good Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters In St. Petersburg

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Recently Booked Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters In St. Petersburg, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Offshore Experience

100% (7)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Offshore Seasonal Species - 48’

100% (2)
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Offshore Max-Out Seasonal Species

100% (2)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $2,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Offshore Max-Out Seasonal Species

100% (2)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $2,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near St. Petersburg

Nearshore - 28’ Center Console

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 12 People From $3,750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near St. Petersburg

Ultimate Overnighter - 48’

100% (2)
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,750

Top Types of Mahi Mahi Trips in St. Petersburg

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Target Species in St. Petersburg

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More Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters In St. Petersburg, Fl

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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 near St. Petersburg

9 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near St. Petersburg

MIDDLE GROUNDS - 35''

100% (2)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $3,500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near St. Petersburg

Night Fishing Adventure - 28'

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 12 People From $2,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near St. Petersburg

40’ Yacht Sport Fish Offshore

100% (2)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,599
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near St. Petersburg

Night Fishing Adventure - 48’ Yacht

100% (2)
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near St. Petersburg

Offshore Fishing Frenzy

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
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Everything to Know About Booking a St. Petersburg mahi mahi fishing charter

What are the best mahi mahi fishing charters in St. Petersburg?

Why should I book a mahi mahi fishing charter in St. Petersburg with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 22 mahi mahi trips in St. Petersburg, and the most popular trips in the area are St. Pete Offshore Experience guided by Greg, Offshore Seasonal Species - 48’ guided by Ron, and Offshore Max-Out Seasonal Species guided by Ron.

Our guides in St. Petersburg are rated a 4.94 out of 5 based on 3716 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 mahi mahi guides / fishing lessons in St. Petersburg? Check out our beginner and family friendly mahi mahi guides in St. Petersburg.

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

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for mahi mahi in St. Petersburg as well as nearshore fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in St. Petersburg are trolling, bottom fishing, and heavy tackle fishing but artificial lure fishing and drift fishing are popular as well.

How much do St. Petersburg mahi mahi fishing charters cost?

Prices for mahi mahi in St. Petersburg can range anywhere from about $1,350 to $7,000, but the average price for a half day trip for mahi mahi in St. Petersburg is $3,459. The average price for a full day trip for mahi mahi in St. Petersburg is $4,277.

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 mahi mahi fishing in St. Petersburg?

The most popular season for mahi mahi fishing in St. Petersburg is summer, and most anglers book their trips 22 days in advance.

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

See here for more information on fishing licenses in St. Petersburg, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in St. Petersburg. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in St. Petersburg.

What is mahi mahi fishing in St. Petersburg all about?

In St. Petersburg, Florida, anglers have the opportunity to target a variety of species aside from tarpon, including the vibrant and highly sought-after mahi-mahi, also known as dolphinfish. Mahi-mahi are renowned for their dazzling colors, spirited fights, and delicious flesh, making them a prized catch for fishermen of all skill levels. During the warmer months, mahi-mahi can be found in abundance in the offshore waters of St. Petersburg, particularly around floating debris, weed lines, and offshore structures where they congregate to feed on baitfish and crustaceans.

One effective technique for targeting mahi-mahi in St. Petersburg is trolling offshore with a spread of colorful lures and rigged baits. Anglers commonly use small to medium-sized trolling lures, such as skirted baits, diving plugs, or squid imitations, to mimic the prey items favored by mahi-mahi. Additionally, deploying rigged ballyhoo or small baitfish as natural baits can entice these pelagic predators. By covering a wide area of water at varying depths and speeds, fishermen increase their chances of encountering schools of mahi-mahi actively feeding near the surface or in deeper waters.

Another productive method for pursuing mahi-mahi in St. Petersburg is by live bait fishing near offshore structures such as buoys, oil rigs, or weed lines. Using live baitfish like pilchards, threadfin herring, or squid can attract mahi-mahi lurking beneath the surface. Anglers often employ a combination of live bait rigs, such as free-lining or using weighted rigs, to present the bait at different depths and entice strikes from these voracious predators. With their vibrant colors and exhilarating fights, mahi-mahi provide anglers in St. Petersburg with an exciting offshore fishing experience and the opportunity to reel in prized catches for the dinner table.

What are the most popular months to fish for mahi mahi in St. Petersburg?

In the waters off St. Petersburg, Florida, anglers are treated to thrilling opportunities to target mahi-mahi, a species known for its vibrant appearance, acrobatic displays, and delectable meat. During the warmer months, these pelagic fish migrate through the offshore waters near St. Petersburg, often congregating around floating debris, weed lines, and offshore structures. Anglers eagerly anticipate encountering schools of mahi-mahi, attracted to these areas where they feed voraciously on baitfish and crustaceans.

One effective technique for pursuing mahi-mahi in St. Petersburg is trolling offshore with a variety of colorful lures and rigged baits. Anglers commonly deploy small to medium-sized trolling lures such as skirted baits, diving plugs, or squid imitations to mimic the prey favored by mahi-mahi. Additionally, using rigged ballyhoo or live baitfish like pilchards and threadfin herring can entice these pelagic predators. By covering expansive stretches of water at different depths and speeds, fishermen increase their chances of encountering active schools of mahi-mahi near the surface or in deeper waters.

Another successful method for targeting mahi-mahi in St. Petersburg is live bait fishing near offshore structures such as buoys, oil rigs, or weed lines. Anglers deploy live baitfish like pilchards, threadfin herring, or squid to attract mahi-mahi lurking beneath the surface. Employing a variety of live bait rigs, including free-lining or using weighted rigs, allows fishermen to present the bait at various depths to entice strikes from these agile and opportunistic predators. With their dazzling colors and spirited fights, mahi-mahi offer anglers in St. Petersburg an exhilarating offshore fishing experience and the chance to reel in prized catches for the table.

What techniques are popular for catching mahi mahi in St. Petersburg?

In St. Petersburg, Florida, mahi-mahi fishing presents anglers with a thrilling challenge and the opportunity to reel in these vibrant pelagic species. One effective technique for targeting mahi-mahi in St. Petersburg is trolling offshore waters with an array of colorful lures and rigged baits. Anglers commonly utilize small to medium-sized trolling lures such as skirted baits, diving plugs, or squid imitations to mimic the natural prey of mahi-mahi. Additionally, deploying rigged ballyhoo or live baitfish like pilchards and threadfin herring can prove irresistible to these predators. By varying trolling speeds and depths while covering a wide area, fishermen increase their chances of encountering active schools of mahi-mahi near the surface or in deeper waters.

Another successful method employed by anglers in St. Petersburg is live bait fishing near offshore structures like buoys, oil rigs, or weed lines where mahi-mahi tend to congregate. Using live baitfish such as pilchards, threadfin herring, or squid can attract mahi-mahi lurking beneath the surface. Anglers often employ different live bait rigs, such as free-lining or using weighted rigs, to present the bait at various depths and entice strikes from these agile predators. Patience and attention to detail are crucial as anglers wait for the telltale signs of mahi-mahi presence and the exhilarating moment when the fish strikes.

Furthermore, staying alert to environmental cues such as floating debris, weed lines, or bird activity can significantly enhance mahi-mahi fishing success in St. Petersburg. Mahi-mahi are often found around these structures and features where baitfish and other prey items congregate. By keeping a keen eye on the water and adjusting fishing strategies accordingly, anglers can maximize their chances of encountering mahi-mahi and enjoying the thrill of landing these prized gamefish. With a combination of trolling, live bait fishing, and strategic observation, St. Petersburg offers anglers an exciting and rewarding mahi-mahi fishing experience on Florida's Gulf Coast.

What other species are popular in St. Petersburg?

In addition to targeting mahi-mahi, anglers in St. Petersburg, Florida, have a diverse array of other species to pursue in the rich waters of the Gulf Coast. One popular catch is the mighty grouper, which inhabits the rocky ledges, reefs, and wrecks scattered throughout the offshore waters near St. Petersburg. Anglers often employ bottom fishing techniques using live bait such as pinfish, squid, or cut bait to entice these formidable predators. Grouper are known for their powerful strikes and tenacious fights, providing anglers with thrilling battles as they work to land these prized fish.

Another sought-after species in St. Petersburg is the snapper, including the popular red snapper and mangrove snapper. These fish can be found around artificial reefs, wrecks, and rocky structures, as well as inshore areas such as bridges and piers. Anglers target snapper using a variety of methods, including bottom fishing with live or cut bait, jigging with soft plastics or metal jigs, and even sight fishing in shallower waters. Red snapper, in particular, are prized for their delicious taste and challenging fights, making them a favorite among anglers seeking a rewarding catch.

Additionally, St. Petersburg offers opportunities to target a variety of pelagic species such as king mackerel, tuna, and sailfish. Anglers often troll offshore waters with artificial lures or rigged baits to entice these fast-moving predators. King mackerel, known for their blistering runs and aggressive strikes, are commonly found near bait schools, while tuna and sailfish frequent deeper waters and can be targeted using specialized trolling techniques. Whether fishing inshore or offshore, St. Petersburg provides anglers with a wealth of options for chasing a diverse range of species and creating unforgettable fishing experiences on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Greg put us on the fish all day and we had a great time!

    Adrian W. | July 17, 2024

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Smooth trip. Greg and Ollie were great teachers. It was impossible to not catch a fish. They clean your fish for you and the restaurant cooks it. Highly recommend!

    Brandi B. | June 13, 2024

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    A friend and I we went out with Cpt. Gage for some afternoon offshore fishing. As soon as my line was in the water I had a bite, then we caught fish after fish! We mush have caught about 50 fish between us. It was a great experience and is highly recommended. I’d never fished before in my life, but after being shown what to do it was easy to pick up.

    John M. | May 10, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    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. | February 17, 2024

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    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. | January 7, 2024

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Great day, Captain Gage was fantastic, he really knows his craft !!

    Arnold E. | December 9, 2023

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Me and my wife had a great time. Gage and his first mate Peyton work very well together. We differently recommend them.

    Troy S. | October 29, 2023

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Fun time with 3 guys with no experience. Gage and Peyton were completely helpful in making a good fishing day equal. Next trip will be for 6-8 hours! We’ll be back!

    Vincent H. | August 6, 2023

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    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. | May 31, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Seasonal Species - 48’

  • ★★★★★
    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. | May 30, 2023

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great trip yesterday 3/27/23 with Gage and His assistant. Got plenty of fish, including a nice run of Grouper on the last stop. The Boat ride out, and back in was very comfortable, and the fishing gear was top notch...we will definetely be back again !

    Forrest D. | March 29, 2023

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    It was great. Got me on some big barracuda which is exactly what I wanted. Mate was also great.

    Dan F. | March 13, 2023

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    How Captain Jim waved an arm and bent the weather into a perfect day kinda was spooky but I liked it! It was a great day can’t give enough stars. Thanks again Jim 👍

    Jason H. | December 7, 2022

    Trip: Offshore Fishing Frenzy

  • ★★★★★
    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. | September 13, 2022

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    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. | September 13, 2022

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Fishing trip went very well, we knew from the start that Gage and Peyton we’re going to get us on the fish by the way we took off , very knowledgeable, very informational, and never did we feel our personal safety was being compromised! Peyton did a phenomenal job as A FIRST CLASS, FIRST MATE , had our catch cooked up for us at the Salty Cracker, and it topped off a GREAT DAY . We will definitely be going back , and using Gage and Peyton again !!

    Troy G. | September 12, 2022

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

What's biting in St. Petersburg?

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