Damn Good Tampa Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Tampa, 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

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Fishing Trip

97% (39)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
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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

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Bowfishing The Tampa Bay

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Shark Fishing

97% (39)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Family Bowfishing Outing

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 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, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Slam

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $500

Top Types of Trips in Tampa

Top Species for Fishing in Tampa

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Target Species in Tampa

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
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Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Tampa, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Tampa

40’ Yacht Sport Fish Snapper / Grouper

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 Tampa

Clearwater Fishing Thriller!

100% (10)
34 ft 1 - 12 People From $880
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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

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Tampa

#1 Fishing Charter On Clearwater Beach

100% (4)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $350
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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

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Tampa

Family Flats Fishing Clearwater Beach

100% (4)
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Tampa

Crushing Clearwater Offshore

100% (10)
34 ft 1 - 12 People From $880
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Tampa

40’ Yacht Sport Fish Inshore

100% (2)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,499

Inshore Fishing Charters In Tampa, 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, Jetty Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Shark Fishing

97% (39)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Action

100% (3)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bowfishing

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
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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

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Bowfishing The Tampa Bay

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Duck Fishing, Hunting Charter in Tampa

Cast & Blast Tampa Bay

100% (3)
26 ft 1 - 2 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore/Nearshore Classic

NEW
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $650

Nearshore Fishing Charters In Tampa, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

3/4 Day

NEW
22 ft 1 - 2 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Tampa

40’ Yacht Sport Fish Inshore

100% (2)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,499
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Tampa

Clearwater Fishing Thriller!

100% (10)
34 ft 1 - 12 People From $880
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore/Nearshore Classic

NEW
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Half Day

NEW
22 ft 1 - 2 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

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Tampa

Reel Salty Sportfishing

100% (10)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450

More Fishing Charters In Tampa, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bowfishing

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Half Day

NEW
22 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Duck Fishing, Hunting Charter in Tampa

Cast & Blast Tampa Bay

100% (3)
26 ft 1 - 2 People From $1,400
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Fishing Classic

97% (39)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Action

100% (3)
26 ft 1 - 6 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 Fishing Charter in Tampa

Inshore Family Fun Fishing

97% (39)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Tampa

What are the best fishing charters in Tampa?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 191 trips in Tampa, and the most popular trips in the area are Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures guided by Wade, Tampa Bay Fishing Trip guided by Christopher, and Bowfishing the Tampa Bay guided by Mike.

Our guides in Tampa are rated a 4.95 out of 5 based on 3784 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 Tampa? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Tampa.

What types of fishing charters are common in Tampa?

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

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

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

How much do Tampa fishing charters cost?

Prices in Tampa can range anywhere from about $550 to $5,200, but the average price for a half day trip in Tampa is $1,304. The average price for a full day trip in Tampa is $2,850.

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 Tampa?

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

Do I need a Tampa fishing license and what are the bag limits in Tampa?

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

Tampa Bay Fishing Charter Overview

Tampa, Florida is a prime location for fishing enthusiasts, with a plethora of fishing charters available. The area boasts a thriving inshore fishery, with a variety of species available year-round, including Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Sheepshead, and Flounder. In addition to the bay, Tampa's inland lakes and rivers offer opportunities for Largemouth Bass fishing, while the nearshore grounds provide access to King and Spanish Mackerel, Amberjack, Cobia, Snappers, and Grouper. Deep offshore waters in the Gulf of Mexico offer the chance to catch Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Blackfin Tuna, Hogfish, Triggerfish, and various Shark species. Tampa fishing charters offer a range of options, from family-friendly flats fishing to deep sea expeditions. It is important to be aware of seasonal regulations for certain species and to ensure that you are fishing with a licensed charter or party boat. Popular departure points include West Gandy Boulevard and Ballast Point Park.

Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing Charters

Just by looking at a map of Tampa Bay will get any inshore angler's adrenaline pumping. Visiting Tampa to go inshore fishing gives anglers a unique opportunity to check off bucket list species just a few minutes away from the big city. Tampa has all the features of a world-class inshore fishery: from mudflats, sand bars, and islands - to channels, cuts, and mangrove forests. This makes Tampa Bay's inshore community very biodiverse.

Tampa's favorite fish, Snook, can be caught year-round, but the bite picks up from April to October. Red Snapper heats up in the summer and can be found only a short distance from the dock which is unlike most places they are found. The Silver King, or Tarpon, can be caught in the summer months when they invade Tampa Bay in search of schooling Menhaden or other baitfish. The formidable Redfish is the bread and butter of Tampa Bay fishing and the bite picks up from March through October. Other species to catch in Tampa include Sheepshead, Speckled Trout, and King Mackerel in the deeper waters.

Deep Sea Fishing Tampa FL

Just a short boat ride out of the bay will bring you to some highly productive nearshore waters. Deep dropping or trolling around structure will bring Hogfish, Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, and other formidable fighters to our Tampa charter boats.

Schools of baitfish hang out near the mouth of the bay in the summer, so that's a great place to start. There are also plenty of reefs & wrecks always providing a diverse catch to Tampa deep sea fishing charters. For the full-day and extended day offshore trips of 40+ miles out, Kingfish, Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, and billfish can be caught.

View All Tampa Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Popular Types of Fishing In Tampa

Tampa fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Tampa include inshore, offshore, and flats fishing. Inshore fishing is perfect for those who want to stay close to shore and catch species such as snook, redfish, and trout. Offshore fishing is for the more adventurous angler who wants to venture out into the Gulf of Mexico to catch species such as grouper, snapper, and kingfish. Flats fishing is a unique experience where anglers can catch species such as tarpon, bonefish, and permit in shallow waters.

Some of the most common fish to catch in Tampa include snook, redfish, trout, grouper, snapper, kingfish, tarpon, bonefish, and permit. Depending on the type of fishing charter you choose, you may have the opportunity to catch one or more of these species.

Tampa fishing charters often depart from popular landmarks such as the Tampa Riverwalk and the St. Petersburg Pier. These locations offer easy access to the water and are popular among locals and tourists alike. No matter which type of fishing charter you choose, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience on the beautiful waters of Tampa Bay.
Check out our trips for more on Tampa fishing charters prices, target species, and more!

The Best Places To Fish In Tampa

Tampa, Florida is a prime location for fishing enthusiasts. With its abundance of waterways and diverse fish species, there are plenty of great spots to cast a line. Whether you're looking for a peaceful day of fishing or a thrilling adventure on a fishing charter, here are some of the best places to fish in Tampa:

1. Tampa Bay - Known for its variety of fish species, Tampa Bay is a popular spot for both recreational and professional anglers. Fishing charters are available for those looking for a guided experience.

2. Hillsborough River - This scenic river is home to a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and tilapia. It's a great spot for both shore fishing and kayaking.

3. Apollo Beach - Located just south of Tampa, Apollo Beach is a popular spot for fishing charters. It's known for its abundance of tarpon, snook, and redfish.

4. Fort De Soto Park - This park offers both beach and pier fishing, with a variety of fish species to catch. It's also a great spot for birdwatching and beachcombing.

5. Weedon Island Preserve - This nature preserve offers a unique fishing experience, with opportunities to catch redfish, snook, and trout. Kayak rentals are available for those looking to explore the waterways.

6. Gandy Bridge - This bridge offers a great spot for shore fishing, with a variety of fish species to catch. It's also a popular spot for crabbing.

7. Courtney Campbell Causeway - This causeway offers both shore and pier fishing, with a variety of fish species to catch. It's also a great spot for birdwatching and scenic views of the bay.

Other Things To Do In Tampa

While Tampa fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant city. Take a stroll through the beautiful Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, where you can experience thrilling roller coasters and up-close animal encounters. For a more laid-back experience, visit the Florida Aquarium or the Tampa Bay History Center. If you're looking for some outdoor fun, head to the Hillsborough River State Park for hiking, kayaking, and camping. And don't forget to check out the famous Ybor City, known for its historic architecture, delicious food, and lively nightlife. With so much to see and do, Tampa is the perfect destination for any traveler.

What Type of Fish Can I Catch In Tampa?

There are numerous different species of fish to target in the Tampa area including snook, redfish, trout, tarpon, and more. If you're interested to learn more, read about the 10 most popular fish to catch in Tampa.

Does Tampa have good fishing?

Tampa, Florida, is an excellent destination for fishing, offering a variety of options for both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts. The city is situated along the Tampa Bay area, which provides access to a diverse range of fishing environments. Tampa Bay itself is renowned for its productive fishing grounds, with species such as snook, redfish, and trout commonly found in its waters. The bay's extensive shoreline and numerous inlets create ideal conditions for both shore fishing and boat fishing.

In addition to Tampa Bay, the nearby Gulf of Mexico offers further opportunities for saltwater fishing. Anglers can venture into the Gulf for deep-sea fishing, targeting species such as grouper, mahi-mahi, and kingfish. The proximity to the Gulf makes Tampa a convenient base for accessing offshore fishing adventures, whether you're chartering a boat or venturing out on your own. The area’s warm waters and rich marine life contribute to a rewarding fishing experience.

Tampa’s local fishing scene is well-supported by amenities such as bait shops, fishing gear stores, and numerous public access points to both freshwater and saltwater fishing locations. The city’s strong focus on outdoor activities and its access to top-notch fishing spots ensure that anglers have the resources they need for a successful outing. Overall, Tampa’s diverse fishing opportunities, from bay and gulf fishing to its supportive infrastructure, make it a prime location for anyone looking to enjoy a fishing trip in Florida.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time bowfishing with Captain Mike this past weekend. My 10 year old son and I had a blast learning how to fish with a bow, and translating shooting at paper targets into shooting at moving fish. The Bay was alive with marine life and it was really cool to be out there together. There was a small technical issue that came up early in the trip, but Captain Mike used his experience to quickly resolve it and get us back out to where the fish were jumping. We are definitely going to book with him again!

    Ryan M. | November 19, 2024

    Trip: Bowfishing the Tampa Bay

  • ★★★★★
    Chris is an excellent guide (5 stars). He is very personable and we all became fishing buddies quickly. Enjoyed the action with the spotted seatrout on the flats in southern Tampa Bay.

    John C. | November 16, 2024

    Trip: Tampa Bay Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day with Capt Wade, he was very professional and knowledgeable and shared his experiences with us. We caught Snook, Redfish, and Speckled Trout in numbers and size to satisfy our needs until next time. His lunch recommendation to cook our catch was awesome too.

    Rick R. | November 12, 2024

    Trip: Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures

  • ★★★★★
    Chris very knowledgeable and easy to talk to. We had a great time and caught a lot of fish.

    Ed P. | September 22, 2024

    Trip: Tampa Bay Shark Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing guide! Friendly fun and even caught some fish! Will definitely use Christopher again!!

    Michael C. | September 21, 2024

    Trip: Tampa Bay Shark Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Bad day for fishing. Captain was great.

    Regina A. | September 21, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Family Fun Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    He was great in every way!!! On time, professional and he definitely put me on fish!!! Highly recommended!! Tom Trainer

    Thomas T. | September 7, 2024

    Trip: Shallow Water Sightfishing

  • ★★★★★
    It was a great trip. Three of us fished comfortably for a half day. Mother Nature provided the fish, and Nick provided a great atmosphere. Easy to talk to and gave some good local recommendations, will look to book with Nick again in the future.

    Michael L. | September 2, 2024

    Trip: Reel Salty Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Robbie was AWESOME & we had a GREAT time!! Thank y'all!!

    Julie T. | August 11, 2024

    Trip: In or Near Shore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Tyson is a great guide. Has all the local knowledge you expect from a guide. Very friendly and down to earth. He had us on top of tarpon most of the trip! Would go again.

    Cameron P. | August 2, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater Flats fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Nick was a fantastic a knowledgeable guide. His boat was clean and well kept. We are a party of 4 with a 10 and 13 year old. Nick took us to an area where every cast was a catch. Thanks again.

    Jason Q. | August 2, 2024

    Trip: Reel Salty Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience, great fishing! Captain Mikey took us right to where the fish were. Started catching fish within a minute of the first bait hitting the water. Steady action for a while, when things slowed Capt. Mikey moved us to a spot where we quickly started catching again. Fished in about four different spots not far from each other, all but the last produced multiple fish. Fun trip!

    Howard D. | August 1, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater Beach Family Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Great time on the water. Chris and Kaden are very knowledgeable. Highly recommend

    Brian P. | July 30, 2024

    Trip: Florida Sportfish on Light Tackle

  • ★★★★★
    Had a fantastic trip with captain Sam. Did the 5 hour shark charter and had a blast. Landed 5 sharks including 3 full grown bull sharks.

    Zach D. | July 29, 2024

    Trip: Shark Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    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’

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Heather sent my wife and I and our two granddaughters out for a 6 hour combination trolling and bottom fishing trip with Captain DJ and Tyler. We can't say enough about how enjoyable it was. Both DJ and Tyler were fantastic guys to be around and put us on plenty of fish, both trolling and bottom fishing. It was very impressive to watch them as a team work to keep our granddaughters busy reeling in fish. They made every aspect of the trip friendly, comfortable and fun. It was all we had hoped to experience. Many thanks to Heather, DJ, Tyler and Captain Experiences.

    Ricky M. | July 18, 2024

    Trip: Crushing Clearwater Offshore

Top Targeted Hunting Species in Tampa

Top Fishing Techniques in Tampa

Top Hunting Techniques in Tampa

  • Calling
  • Decoy Hunting
  • Hunting from a Blind
  • Shotgun Hunting

Top Types of Fishing in Tampa

Top Types of Hunting in Tampa

How are fishing conditions in Tampa?

View Tampa Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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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:

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