Damn Good Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Tampa Bay

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Recently Booked Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Tampa Bay

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Offshore Experience

100% (11)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Gulfport

Full Day St Pete Offshore

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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in St. Petersburg

Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

100% (7)
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Clearwater

Clearwater Fishing Thriller!

100% (12)
34 ft 1 - 12 People From $950
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Clearwater

Clearwater Offshore Reefs & Wrecks

100% (20)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Clearwater

Clearwater Offshore Fishing

100% (20)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $750

Top Types of Deep Sea Trips in Tampa Bay

Top Species for Deep Sea Fishing in Tampa Bay

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Tampa Bay

Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Clearwater

Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

100% (11)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

6 Hour Sarasota Fishing Trip

100% (5)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

8 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (5)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore in Clearwater

40’ Yacht Sport Fish Shark Hunt

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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Clearwater

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 Fishing in Clearwater

40’ Yacht Sport Fish Offshore

100% (2)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,599
See All Deep Sea Trips in Tampa Bay

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Everything to Know About Booking a Tampa Bay deep sea fishing charter

What are the best deep sea fishing charters in Tampa Bay?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 21 deep sea trips in Tampa Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Full Day St Pete Offshore guided by Joseph, Clearwater Fishing Thriller! guided by Steve, and Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn guided by Adam.

Our guides in Tampa Bay are rated a 4.98 out of 5 based on 4469 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 deep sea guides / fishing lessons in Tampa Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly deep sea guides in Tampa Bay.

What types of deep sea fishing charters are common in Tampa Bay?

The most commonly sought after species for deep sea fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. snook, 3. speckled trout, 4. mangrove snapper, and 5. gag grouper.

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

How much do Tampa Bay deep sea fishing charters cost?

Prices for deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay can range anywhere from about $1,150 to $4,998, but the average price for a half day trip for deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay is $1,989. The average price for a full day trip for deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay is $2,764.

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 deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay?

The most popular season for deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay is spring, and most anglers book their trips 22 days in advance.

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

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

What is deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay all about?

Deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay offers anglers an exciting opportunity to explore the rich waters of the Gulf of Mexico, just off Florida's western coast. Tampa Bay is known for its diverse marine life and productive fishing grounds, making it a popular destination for deep sea enthusiasts. Anglers targeting deep sea species in Tampa Bay often set out on offshore excursions to deeper waters where they can encounter a variety of game fish such as grouper, snapper, amberjack, kingfish, and even the occasional sailfish or shark.

The fishing season in Tampa Bay can vary throughout the year, with different species being more prevalent during certain months. Summer months typically see an abundance of kingfish and grouper, while winter can bring in larger numbers of snapper and amberjack. Local charter companies and fishing guides are well-versed in these seasonal patterns and can provide valuable insights into the best times to target specific species based on weather conditions and fish migrations.

Anglers typically embark on deep sea fishing trips aboard well-equipped charter boats outfitted with specialized fishing gear suitable for offshore angling. Techniques commonly used include bottom fishing with live or cut bait for species like grouper and snapper, as well as trolling with large lures or rigged baits to attract pelagic fish such as kingfish and sailfish. The thrill of battling these powerful fish against the backdrop of Tampa Bay's expansive waters makes deep sea fishing here a thrilling adventure for anglers looking to test their skills and reel in impressive catches.

What are the most popular months to go deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay?

Deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay offers anglers a diverse and exciting experience throughout the year, with each season presenting unique opportunities to target different species. Springtime in Tampa Bay marks the start of the fishing season, with anglers focusing on species like kingfish, cobia, and Spanish mackerel. As the waters warm up, these fish become more active and plentiful, providing a thrilling challenge for both beginners and seasoned fishermen alike. Spring also brings opportunities to target snapper and grouper closer to shore before they move to deeper waters later in the year.

Summer is perhaps the most popular season for deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay, thanks to the abundance of species and favorable weather conditions. This is the peak time to catch prized fish such as tarpon, snook, redfish, and shark. The warm waters attract these large game fish, offering anglers the chance to hook into some of the most sought-after catches in the region. With longer daylight hours and calm seas, summer provides ample opportunities for extended fishing trips and multiple catches, making it a favorite among local fishermen and visitors alike.

Fall in Tampa Bay brings cooler temperatures and changing fishing patterns, but the fishing remains excellent. As the waters cool, species like kingfish and Spanish mackerel continue to be abundant, while snapper and grouper begin to migrate to shallower waters, offering great opportunities for bottom fishing enthusiasts. Fall also sees the arrival of migrating species such as cobia and amberjack, adding to the diversity of catches available. Despite the seasonal changes, Tampa Bay provides consistent and rewarding deep sea fishing experiences year-round, making it a premier destination for anglers seeking adventure and memorable fishing trips.

What techniques are popular for deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay?

Deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay, Florida, offers anglers a diverse array of fishing types and techniques tailored to the area's rich marine environment. Trolling is a popular method used to target pelagic species such as kingfish, tuna, and sailfish. Anglers typically troll with multiple lines equipped with artificial lures or rigged baits, varying their speed and depth to attract fish cruising near the surface or in mid-water depths. This technique is effective year-round in Tampa Bay, with peak seasons coinciding with migrations and favorable water temperatures.

Bottom fishing is another prevalent technique in Tampa Bay, especially around offshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges where species like grouper, snapper, and amberjack gather. Anglers use heavy tackle and sturdy rigs to drop baited hooks to the bottom, enticing these bottom-dwelling fish. Baits commonly used include live or cut baitfish, squid, and shrimp. Patience and precise boat positioning are crucial for success in bottom fishing, as anglers aim to present their baits near the structure where fish are most likely to feed.

Vertical jigging has gained popularity among Tampa Bay anglers targeting species like amberjack, kingfish, and even grouper. This technique involves dropping heavy metal jigs to the bottom and then rapidly jerking them upward to mimic the motion of fleeing baitfish. Vertical jigging requires specialized rods and reels capable of handling the fast retrieves and strong strikes characteristic of deep water fishing. It's an exhilarating technique that requires skill and endurance, offering anglers a dynamic way to hook into some of Tampa Bay's larger and more aggressive fish species.

What species are popular for deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay?

Deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay presents anglers with a variety of saltwater species to target, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. One of the prized catches in these waters is the grouper, particularly the gag grouper and red grouper. These bottom-dwelling fish are known for their size and delicious meat. Anglers often target them around reefs, wrecks, and ledges using live bait such as pinfish or squid, or by jigging with heavy tackle. Grouper fishing in Tampa Bay provides a thrilling challenge as anglers navigate the deeper waters in search of these prized predators.

Another sought-after species for deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay is the kingfish, also known as king mackerel. Kingfish are fast-swimming predators known for their powerful runs and sharp teeth. They are often found near offshore structures like reefs, shipwrecks, or artificial reefs, where they hunt for smaller fish. Anglers typically use trolling techniques with live bait such as sardines or artificial lures designed to mimic baitfish movements. Hooking a kingfish provides an exciting battle due to their speed and strength, making them a favorite target among sport fishermen.

In addition to grouper and kingfish, anglers deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay may also encounter species such as snapper and amberjack. Snapper, including species like red snapper and mangrove snapper, inhabit the reefs and rocky structures throughout the bay. They are prized for their sweet-tasting meat and are often caught using live bait such as shrimp or pilchards, or by bottom fishing with cut bait. Amberjack, known for their brute strength and stamina, are found near wrecks and reefs where they feed on smaller fish. Anglers use heavy tackle and live bait like pinfish or blue runners to target these powerful fish. Overall, deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay offers a rewarding experience with a diverse range of game fish against the backdrop of Florida's scenic Gulf Coast.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Great day, with even better fishing! Adam was a great guide and was very attentive to every detail. Highly recommend booking with him!

    Bradley A. | May 3, 2025

    Trip: Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Zack and Adam did a great job. They put us on fish quickly and were Johnny on the spot with everything we needed. Would definitely use them again.

    John M. | April 27, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater Fishing Thriller!

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip with Captain Brad and Skylar yesterday. Caught several grouper and saw a few dolphins as well. The guys were so good with our kids and they moved us frequently to make sure we continued to pull in fish. Would definitely recommend using this company to anyone looking to deep sea fishing in the Clearwater area.

    Jessica R. | April 21, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater offshore fishing

  • ★★★★★
    What a fantastic day out on the water!!! My family came in from out of town looking to go on a deeper fishing trip. Greg came highly recommended both by the booking agent as well as previous reviews. Our hopes of having fun and catching some big fish were exceeded both by the amount and size of fish that were caught as well as the variety. Greg really showed his knowledge and experience by his ability to put us “on the fish”! Robbie, the captain’s right hand man, was so awesome as well! He kept all the lines baited and really taught us how to not lose the fish while reeling them in. The entire day was a blast and an unforgettable adventure!!! Thank you again Greg and Robbie from the Shannon Clan!

    Michael S. | April 17, 2025

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Joe and John (first mate) did a fantastic job putting us on fish! We brought home a load and had a great time.

    Darryl S. | April 16, 2025

    Trip: Full Day St Pete Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    Great tour guide. Very knowledgeable and made sure we had a blast. Thank you..

    Darrell F. | March 28, 2025

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip, I finally caught a shark and my daughter and I caught an abundance of eating fish.

    Michael S. | March 23, 2025

    Trip: Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

  • ★★★★★
    excellent!! we had a Blast !! thank you both !!! we will be back again for sure !! see ya then ⛱️🌴

    Debra B. | March 15, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Gage and Noah were great. They knew where to find the fish and kept us catching several kinds of fish throughout the trip. We went as a family and they kept the kids busy and were a big help showing them exactly what to do. I would definitely recommend them!

    Katherine F. | March 5, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day with Adam, thoroughly knowledgeable about the area and how to catch em!!! He gave us several options to choose from and he did not disappoint!!! We will be chartering with him again in the near future.

    William B. | March 2, 2025

    Trip: Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

  • ★★★★★
    Greg and Logan made a great team, helping us have a great day on the water. They put us on the fish and kept us busy hauling them in. Thanks for a very memorable day.

    Danny M. | February 23, 2025

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Steve & crew were great! They kept our lines in the water, and attended to us quickly. The boat was clean and spacious, lots of space to get out of the sun, but maintain a breeze without getting down into the cabin. 100% would recommend you give Reel Deal a shot!

    Tim T. | February 12, 2025

    Trip: Crushing Clearwater Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    Greg and his mate Logan were fantastic. They were friendly, accommodating, knowledgeable, efficient, and very “fishy”! We had a great day with them. I recommend Captain Greg highly.

    Christopher S. | December 31, 2024

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Brad and his first mate were great for our outing. Since my kids were new to ocean fishing, he kept us within a few miles of shore and knew some rocky pockets where we hauled in many fish. We had a blast. One reason I chose Capt Brad was the 33’ boat which was roomy to maneuver for our party of six. They are friendly and accommodating.

    Karl B. | December 28, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater offshore fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time. We caught around 40 fish. Gray snapper, Redfish, Porgy, and Sheep Head. Caught some group or two, but they’re out of season so I’d throw them back. The fish we did keep we took back and cooked them up. They were delicious.

    Griffin P. | December 13, 2024

    Trip: 6 Hour Sarasota Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip with Adam! Highly recommend!!

    Brionne J. | July 26, 2024

    Trip: Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely will be back. Super day out catching fish. Great crew, great boat. The day went way too fast!

    Brian M. | July 15, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater offshore fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with our guides. They were easy going and very accommodating. We caught a variety of different fish. I would for sure go out with these guys again.

    Tori S. | July 7, 2024

    Trip: Clearwater offshore fishing

Other Types of Fishing in Tampa Bay

Types of Hunting in Tampa Bay

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See All Deep Sea Trips in Tampa Bay