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Light Tackle Fishing Charters In Gulf Of Mexico

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Recently Booked Light Tackle Fishing Charters Near Gulf Of Mexico

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Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Offshore Blitz: Half-Day Dash

100% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$
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Fishing in Islamorada

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Epic Islamorada Inshore

100% (7)
25 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Fishing in Freeport

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Freeport

A Nearshore Party In Paradise

100% (5)
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$
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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 Pensacola

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Pensacola Fishing Frenzy

100% (3)
26 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Naples

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Naples

Naples Offshore Structure

100% (4)
28 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
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Fishing in Crystal River

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Crystal River

Crystal River Near And Inshore

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

Most Popular Types of Light Tackle Fishing Trips in Gulf Of Mexico

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Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Light Tackle Fishing Charters Near Gulf Of Mexico

Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
Fishing in Gulf Shores
trip description for Offshore Center Console in Gulf Shores

Minutes of Use is a 31 foot center console (cape horn) with twin 300 horse power Suzuki engines. The boat name is sometimes confusing since it also the name of the charter company. She is a no-frills fishing boat we used as a personal tournament fishing boat for years before we started the charter business. She is fast and economical with a large fishing deck. The down side is that she has limited shade and a portable head. We ride on bean bags, which are very comfortable, on the trip out and back in to the dock. This boat is what most of the fishing charters in the area use because they are fast and the most economical. They are perfect for 4-6 hour trips because of the speed and versatility, and the very large fishing area that allows people to spread out while they fish. With 6 fishermen it is not crowded and all 6 are able to fish at the same time and avoid tangled lines. For longer trips you need to be aware that shade is limited and prepare accordingly as well the head (potty) is a portable. More like tent camping than using a RV. 4 hour trips we generally go after whatever is biting and it is all about having fun catching fish not worrying about a specific species rather focusing on what is close and the bite is hot. With limited time we do not want to spend the time riding, we want to be fishing and catching fish. 6 hour trips (half day) during snapper season we go after limits of snapper then start working on other fish that have been biting. We generally get a limit with a few large snapper and some other fish species. We do not focus on all big fish as we are time limited and want to make sure we get you as many fish as possible up to the limit. 8 hour trips allow the captain time to be more picky about the fish we keep so the average size of what we keep is normally larger. It also allows time to target other fish and expand the adventure. Minutes of Use is a great family and starter boat because she is open air, fast, and most affordable. Captain Walt loves working with new fishermen and youngsters, getting them hooked on deep sea fishing forever. She is the perfect boat to take the family or group of up to 6 people, and have a private trip with a captain and deck hand focused on your success and enjoyment of the day. There are plenty of fish to catch, the secret is to have fun catching them!!!! We ask you to bring wipe on sunscreen rather than spray on if at all possible as the spray gets on the floor and makes it very slick. You also need only to bring drinks, snacks, and a camera for pictures. When the trip is over the crew will clean your fish and bag them for you. the deck hand is normally the hardest working guy on the boat helping you with bait, tips on catching, rigging the rods, and all around helping make the trip easier and fun. Tipping the deck hand in customary in the 10-20% range. Captain Walt will be contacting you before the trip so if you have any questions he will be happy to answer and make sure it is a great trip. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Shores

Offshore Center Console

100% (4)
31 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
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Fishing in Pensacola
Fishing in Pensacola
Fishing in Pensacola
trip description for Quick Trips! Kid friendly in Pensacola

Want to get on the water but don’t want to put a full day into it? We offer short trips as well. 3 hr bay / nearshore , 4 hr nearshore / offshore and 6 hr nearshore offshore . We offer a 3 hour shark fishing trip in our bay which is great for beginners. This trip is usually ran in the evenings so you will see the sunset and maybe a blue angel fly over. Lots of sharks caught this past year! 4 & 6 hr will be some trolling and Bottom fishing. The captain will tailor the trip to YOUR preference . This is not a cookie cutter charter. We cater to you. We have fun on these trips the fish are always a big bonus! The cost differences are based on the size boat we take 23ft or 40ft . Fuel charges may apply. Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Quick Trips! Kid Friendly

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People $$
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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 Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Reel Salty Sportfishing in Clearwater

Nick invites you to check out the local fishery in style. Come on aboard with Capt. Nick, whose main priority is to get you on some fish. Expect to use light tackle based on the species you're targeting. Speaking of which, you have the option of 4 to 8-hour trips, where you'll be fishing for the likes of Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Tripletail, depending on the specific season and the day's weather. Your adventure begins on board a 21' Sea Pro boat that can fit a maximum of 4 anglers. The price of your trip includes all the rods, reels, and terminal tackle you'll need for a productive day on the water. As for fishing licenses, everything will be taken care of by the captain so you don't have to worry about it. You're welcome to keep all legal species caught during the trip. Want to bring the rest of the family along for the ride? Kids are welcome aboard, so you're free to make it a family adventure. Book your trip now and hit the water with Nick. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Reel Salty Sportfishing

100% (4)
26 ft 1 - 4 People $
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for Sarasota Classic Trip in Sarasota

Premier Sarasota fishing charters. Specialized in inshore, Snook, Redfish, Tarpon and trout fishing. We also target a variety of species during specific times of the year like Triple Tail, King Fish, Sheepshead, Pompano, Snapper and Grouper. Captain James also offers a variety of charter options ranging from inshore, nearshore, island hopping and dolphin tours. Read More

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Classic Trip

100% (4)
22 ft 1 - 5 People $
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater Nearshore Hop - 22’ Dusky in Clearwater

Looking a fun and enjoyable charter out of Clearwater, FL? This trip with Captain Brad is a Clearwater fishing charter at it’s finest! On this trip, you can enjoy some of the world's best bottom fishing, hooking up Groupers, Snappers, Sharks, Hogfish, and many other species on light to heavy tackle. If you're looking for some thrilling fishing, you're in the right place! You'll be out there on board Captain Brad's 22' Dusky center console. She's a super versatile vessel that's ideal for mixing it up and fishing inshore or nearshore! Captain Brad will supply everything you need for an awesome day on the water, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. Book a trip with him and see what Clearwater has to offer! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Nearshore Hop - 22’ Dusky

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 3 People $$
Fishing in Freeport
Fishing in Freeport
Fishing in Freeport
trip description for State Water Adventure in Freeport

Head out to Freeport, Texas if you’re in for a true fishing adventure and pay a visit to Captain Rodney. Captain Rodney will show you various reefs and wrecks, all brimming with quality fish and surrounded by beautiful nature. Fishing in this nearshore zone with Captain Rodney is a great trip for anyone who hasn’t been offshore fishing and wants to wet their feet, but also great for the experienced fisherman who doesn't want to be pounded by the surf that hauling 50 miles out demands! Captain Rodney's crew will help you chase Trophy Bull Red (Red Drum), Shark, Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, Red Snapper (seasonally), Catfish, and more, depending on the time of year. You might even get a surprise and catch a Ling or a Mahi Mahi. For these 5-hour trips, Captain Rodney uses his 27’ Center Console which provides a truly great fishing experience! These trips are great for families - Captain Rodney loves teaching little ones about the various species that call the Gulf of Mexico home. Make sure to bring a valid Texas fishing license as well as snacks and drinks of your choice (no glass). Captain Rodney will provide the rest - rods, reels, tackle, and an icebox for your day’s catch. Enjoy your day on the water with Captain Rodney! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Freeport

State Water Adventure

100% (4)
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
See All Light Tackle Fishing Trips in Gulf Of Mexico

Everything to Know About Booking a Gulf Of Mexico light tackle fishing charter

What are the best light tackle fishing charters in Gulf Of Mexico?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 174 light tackle fishing trips in Gulf Of Mexico, and the most popular trips in the area are Offshore Blitz: Half-Day Dash guided by Jake, Epic Islamorada Inshore guided by Ron, and A Nearshore Party in Paradise guided by Rodney.

Our guides in Gulf Of Mexico are rated a 4.88 out of 5 based on 2570 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.

Looking for kid friendly light tackle fishing guides / fishing lessons in Gulf Of Mexico? Check out our beginner and family friendly light tackle fishing guides in Gulf Of Mexico.

What types of light tackle fishing charters are common in Gulf Of Mexico?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for light tackle fishing in Gulf Of Mexico as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most commonly sought after species for light tackle fishing in Gulf Of Mexico are: 1. kingfish, 2. red snapper, 3. mangrove snapper, and 4. redfish.

How much do Gulf Of Mexico light tackle fishing charters cost?

for light tackle fishing in Gulf Of Mexico prices can range anywhere from about $559 to $5,295, but the average price for a half day trip for light tackle fishing in Gulf Of Mexico is $1,105. The average price for a full day trip for light tackle fishing in Gulf Of Mexico is $3,133.

What month is best for on a light tackle fishing charter in Gulf Of Mexico?

The most popular season to go on a light tackle fishing charter in Gulf Of Mexico is spring, and most anglers book their trips 19 days in advance.

Do I need a Gulf Of Mexico fishing license and what are the bag limits in Gulf Of Mexico?

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

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Experience of a Lifetime! You know when you book an Air&BnB or an excursion and you have a slight apprehension due to the uncertainty of what the host guarantees? I will tell you this upfront, book with confidence. Let me explain… I’m going to do my best, but to capture the essence of what we experienced, in simple written word, is nearly an impossible task. Our guided fishing trip really started out like any other excursion. We met early morning, dockside at the “Bait House”. The host gave very clear and concise directions to our link up, what to expect and recommendations on what to bring along. The day before our trip, the staff reached out directly to ensure everyone was on the same page. We had (6) in our party. (3) adults and (3) kids. We packed our own lunches, drinks, adult beverages and snacks. This kept the guides fully engaged on fishing and not preoccupied preparing some spoiled kids’ lunch on the water. We also packed along warming layers and rain/wind gear. Our cadre of guides consisted of a captain/primary guide (Luke) and deckhand/assistant guide (Ben). Both were very cordial, professional and entertaining with their banter and dialogue. The boat was a 33’, fiberglass, Suzuki twin-engine, center console workhorse that appeared to be specifically designed for guided fishing. The live-well was fully packed with ice to preserve our harvested fish. (3) large bean bags were provided to lounge on while underway. The boat had been fitted with modern electronics for navigation, communication and fishing. Very nice, reliable, comfortable and safe vessel. Upon boarding we got a quick brief and were given ample storage space for all the gear we brought. This was key as everything must be stowed while underway. Our initial boat ride was 24 miles off the shore of Clearwater, FL. The ride was teeming with wildlife. As the sun came up, the city skyline disappeared into the horizon until you couldn’t see anything but ocean in every direction. It was magnificent. From start to finish, our guides were very organized on the boat. Gear, tackle, cabin, live bait, ect. all well organized and serviceable. As situations changed, they communicated clearly what they needed from us. Personnel management to balance the vessel and alleviate excessive listing, along with keeping the deck open to allow freedom of movement was well executed. The equipment provided was better than adequate. All of the gear was well maintained and prepped for use. From rigging and baiting to removing the fish and cleaning/prep, the guides handled every aspect of the equipment very well. My wife wanted to accomplish (2) things. She wanted to harvest fish for our family dinner that night, and catch the biggest fish. Both were achieved. We caught A LOT of fish. We began fishing for large Amber Jack, however the guide identified that the bite was slow so we shifted gears to catch our daily harvest. We slammed a bunch of amazing fish. Porgy, Hogfish, Red Snapper, Grunt and others. We also caught some fun interesting fish like: Lizard fish, Remora (suction cup fish) and blow fish. Some were even reused as bait for the huge Amber Jack we caught later in the day. After catching plenty of fish for dinner, we moved back to our original location for another run at the large Amber Jack (AJ); an artificial reef of an intentionally sunken ship. Fishing in about 80’ of water, we quickly hooked into our first AJ. After locating the targeted species, the guides quickly switched gears in an epic display of professionalism and mastery of their craft in order to draw out the largest AJs. The communication between the guides and their actions was impeccable. One man on the rod, the other in full support. As the guide asked for a certain type/color of bait fish, the other pulled it from the livewell and began to toss the same baitfish overboard. When that particular bait was unsuccessful, they moved onto another type. This was system repeated several times until they found the right bait. It was really cool to see. Very fast, deliberate and accurate fishing. Once we had the right bait, it was like the AJs were “switched on”. Shortly we were pulling monster AJs in the boat. Huge fish the size of both of a grown man’s legs. After an exciting run of pulling in several huge AJs, we were down to our last baitfish. What I’m about to tell you just can’t really capture how awesome this last cast truly was. Now, earlier in the day we had an AJ get bit by a shark. We got it in the boat and it had some teeth marks and a gushing blood. It was crazy cool. However, this last cast set into motion a series of events that we’ll certainly remember for the rest of our lives. The line was cast and immediately hooked up. My wife was fighting this monster AJ (Yes, the biggest fish of the day) for several minutes. As the AJ was retrieved and became closer to the boat (so close we could see it) two HUGE sharks swam right to it taking a gigantic bite out of the AJ. When I say “bite” I mean a literal shark-head-shaped-bite. A cartoonish bite. Like, imagine what you would see on a Saturday morning cartoon. The bite was so clean and the exact round shape of the jaws of a shark. It was remarkable. As it got up to the boat, guide Ben (in an epic display of reluctant courage mind you) reached down and pulled up this AJ. Even the pictures just don’t do this experience justice. My wife, grabbed this fish holding it right in the bitten area like a savage. She was so excited! We were all excited. As we unhooked the AJ, the guides tossed it back out and a full-on shark feeding frenzy erupted. Multiple sharks attacking this AJ in just the most amazingly violent display. This was straight up, no BS, some National Geographic sh!t. When the AJ was pulled in, nothing remained but a huge sardine head. The Gulf gave us a show we’ll never forget and it was all due to the expertise, fast thinking and relentless efforts of our guides. As if our experience wasn’t enough, our ride back was filled with dolphins, sea turtles and a host of other incredible wildlife. The guides cleaned and prepared all of our harvested fish. They even labeled them by name so we knew what types they were. Our family loves the outdoors, and we have a saying when we venture out, “Don’t expect anything”. The fishing trip that day took everyone by surprise as to how incredible it unfolded. If you are looking for an amazing experience on the water, book with confidence because we had the experience of a lifetime.

    Yuliya H. with Brad D. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Nick tried his best but the fish just weren't biting. Nick was very nice and knowledgeable we just wish we caught more fish.

    Andy G. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Phenomenal trip! Cap’t Christian was ever the professional. We went out with Cap’n Andrew and he was awesome. We were on fish all day and even better, he helped the young one fish all day. I highly recommend this outfit and will definitely book again. PS….the boat is awesome as all get out.

    Keith M. with Christian D. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time fishing with Bill and Nikki. Unfortunately the weather didn’t cooperate with us. Very windy and choppy in the Gulf that forced us to stay in the inside bay. We caught plenty of fish, and several varieties but we could on find one legal size. Highly recommend them to charter.

    Richard C. with Bill W. of Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • ★★★★★
    We fished with Capt'n Blake on the 32 Sportsman. Blake was friendly, energetic and most of all, he was determined to put us on the fish. My 13 year old son and his friend were with us, and Blake was extremely attentive and helpful with the youth anglers. I would highly recommend Capt'n Blake, and Captain Experiences, and I would book this same exact trip again if given the opportunity. Tight lines!

    William A. with Ryan H. of Destin, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Alex was an amazing captain! We hit up a couple different spots landing some sheep head, red fish, and even a blowfish and bull shark!! 10/10 would recommend he was awesome with our 9 year old too!!

    Erin W. with Alex P. of Pensacola, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Good trip; Dustin did great in conditions that were not ideal!!

    Michael W. with Dustin K. of Panama City Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great experience with Captain Nick! He was very accommodating to me and my 8 and 4 year old. He put us on fish right away, and most important of all he was safe! Great experience.

    Joel A. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Kevin did an awesome job. Although the conditions were difficult we still caught a meal to take home with us. He was very patient with the kids and kept things entertaining and informative. Had a great time!

    Kurt G. with Kevin T. of Crystal River, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time , enough action . Bad weather, Kevin did a great job

    Kenneth K. with Kevin T. of Crystal River, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Although it was a slow day of fishing Captain Robbie worked his butt off to find us some speckled trout to eat and lady fish for fun. I highly recommend Captain Robbie to anyone who wants a guide with local knowledge of the area and knows where the best fishing spots are!

    Paul P. with Robert D. of Tarpon Springs, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great 3 hour charter with Captain Jeremy & Hunter! Took my son and two grandsons (8 & almost 6) out. The guys were great and removed the fish from our lines and baited our hooks. We caught about 60 Grey Snappers, a few Puffer Fish and a few Sea Bass! Overall a great day! Going again at the end of the month with my daughter & son-in-law! Highly recommend these guys. They are great!

    Stephen M. with Carlos B. of Holiday, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time

    Leo M. with Antonio E. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great trip with captain nick. Despite the tough conditions we were able to find some fish, will book again.

    Max S. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Chris and Daniel were awesome. Caught a lot of fish and had a lot of fun. Provided rods and a variety of bait. Went on the 6 hour trip and it was plenty. If you want bigger fish then maybe go for the 8 hour

    Alex V. with Chris S. of Gulfport, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Daryl was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and laid-back. He made our fishing trip beginner-friendly and went above and beyond to ensure we caught the fish we were after. We reeled in every species you’d want during our inshore adventure! His teaching skills were top-notch, and he never once made me feel inadequate due to my lack of fishing experience. Plus, he had a great sense of humor that kept us laughing throughout the trip. Best fishing trip I’ve been on! I can't wait to go fishing with him again!

    Brittany B. with Daryl C. of Grand Isle, Louisiana

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Ron is a true pro and so nice. My family had a great fishing trip. 10 out of 10🙂

    Mark L. with Ron B. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Our guide Nick is top notch, he is friendly, knowledgeable and certainly knows great spots to fish. We caught fish all day, brought home three very large mutton’s, some other mutton’s and good size yellow tail. We caught and released fish all day, hogfish, large groupers and other assorted fishes. Thanks Nick .

    Chris B. with Paul H. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day fishing with Captain Nick Hughs! Trip started on time with nearly perfect weather. Boat was ready to go with all the bait and tackle we needed. Although the fish were hard to find, we did land a nice Snook. Nick worked his fanny off trying to get us on the fish. He’s a great Capt. and great host!

    Jan G. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Even though the weather did not cooperate at first, Captain John John was able to work things out and get us out on the water for an amazing trip! Had lots of fun, heard some crazy tales and caught many species of fish. Our deck hand Drew did an fantastic job as well. Such an amazing experience, thank you guys, we will definitely set up future fishing trips with Kingslayer Charters.

    Eric G. with John C. of Panama City, Florida

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See All Light Tackle Fishing Trips in Gulf Of Mexico