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Damn Good Topwater Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability on topwater fishing fishing trips. Online booking | 4.92 / 5 stars | Guides from $475

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Recently Booked Topwater Fishing Charters

Fishing in Corpus Christi

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Corpus Christi

Morning Fishing Trip - 5 Hour

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
Damn Good
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 Pompano Beach

Deep Sea, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pompano Beach

#1 Offshore Charter

100% (3)
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Corpus Christi

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Corpus Christi

North Padre Texas Classic

100% (6)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $495
Fishing in Gulf Breeze

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Gulf Breeze

Pensacola Bay Fly Fishing

100% (6)
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $400
Fishing in Corpus Christi

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Corpus Christi

Morning Fishing Trip!!! 7 Hour

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $675
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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 Key West

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Tarpon Fishing (seasonally)

100% (10)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $250

Top Cities for Topwater Fishing

Top Species for Topwater Fishing

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Topwater Fishing Charters

Damn Good
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 Tampa
Fishing in Tampa
Fishing in Tampa
trip description for Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures in Tampa

Get out there and enjoy a fun, laid-back light tackle sportfishing trip on beautiful Tampa Bay. On this trip with 27 year veteran 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 children of all ages. 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, Bull Bay, 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, “regarded as the best bay boat in the industry,” is ideal for fishing the 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! "Always an Adventure." Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
trip description for Epic Islamorada Inshore in Islamorada

Head out for a half, 3/4 or full day Epic Fishing trip in the beautiful Florida Keys fishing for Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, Permit, Mangrove Snapper, Shark, Goliath Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, and much more! Captain Ron is an Islamorada Veteran with over 42 years of Experience chartering fishing trips in the Keys. Per his expert opinion, he recommends half-day 4-hour trips for novice anglers and families with kids. The 6-hour trip is more involved and gives you and your group more time to try different spots, and catch a variety of fish species that the Keys has to offer. And for those fishermen looking to catch everything, that one big fish, or try for the Backcountry slam, Captain Ron recommends the 8-hour full-day trip! No matter which trip you choose, Captain Ron will supply the fishing gear, and you should bring snack, drinks, a cap, sunblock, sunglasses and a camera. Come along and Enjoy!! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Epic Islamorada Inshore

100% (8)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
trip description for Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta in Port Aransas

Growing up in a ranching family that has been in the Victoria, Texas area since the 1870s, James developed early on a deep appreciation for the land and wildlife. His passion for fishing the Gulf coast comes from spending weekends and summers in Rockport, Texas. There he began crafting his fishing skills at age 4 with his father, along the San Antonio Bay system south to Lower Laguna Madre. After attending Southwest Texas University, James obtained his Captain's license in 2005 to share his knowledge and experience on the water with others. In addition to conventional fishing, James has been an avid fly fisherman for 15 years. He has spent time in the Bahamas learning new techniques for fly casting, which he can pass along to fly-fishing clients at any level. His knack for teaching first timers with his carefree, relaxed attitude will make learning to fish a memorable and rewarding experience. Capt. James has been guiding since 2005 and has grown up fishing the Port Aransas and Rockport areas all his life. We will be fishing primarily for Redfish, Trout, Flounder and Black Drum. He uses a wide variety of techniques in order for his clients to have great day on the water. He runs a 25’ Majek Illusion. Kids are more than welcome. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Port Aransas

Tortuga Flats Fishing Fiesta

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Pensacola
Fishing in Pensacola
Fishing in Pensacola
trip description for Bay Fishing Bonanza in Pensacola

Hop on board with Captain Jake for an awesome day of bay fishing! The Pensacola inshores are a fantastic spot to chase after some of the prized fish that Florida is known for without heading too far form the dock. Captain Jake's inshore adventures will explore the inland waterways of scenic Pensacola Bay. Depending on the season, some of the species you might encounter are redfish, speckled trout, mangrove snapper, sheepshead, flounder, and others! You are welcome to get as involved as you would like with your adventure as well, whether you'd rather lounge until the reel starts screaming or if you want your hand on the rod the whole time, Captain Jake can make it happen! Beyond superior service and luxurious amenities, Captain Jake also provides the best rods, reels, tackle, bait, and fishing licenses you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water. Thus, all you need to bring are your favorite lunch, snack, and drink, your sun protection, maybe a towel, and your camera! Otherwise, Captain Jake will take care of the rest to make the most of your Pensacola saltwater adventure! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Pensacola

Bay Fishing Bonanza

100% (21)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
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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 Pompano Beach
Fishing in Pompano Beach
Fishing in Pompano Beach
trip description for Sunrise Saltwater Slam in Pompano Beach

Embark on the ultimate offshore sportfishing adventure with a 43-foot Post Sportfish vessel based in Pompano Beach, FL. Designed with the angler in mind, this fishing machine offers ample deck space and comfortable amenities inside, ensuring a remarkable fishing experience. We are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, guaranteeing a smooth and enjoyable ride on the open waters. Step aboard and let Captain Ron, a 50-ton USCG licensed captain with over 30 years of experience, guide you to the hottest fishing spots. No matter your skill level, all are welcome on this exciting expedition. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, our team provides top-of-the-line fishing equipment, ensuring you have the tools necessary for a successful outing. As you cast your line, feel the adrenaline surge through your veins. Pompano Beach, FL, is renowned for its diverse and abundant marine life, making it an ideal destination for offshore sportfishing. From battling powerful game fish to reeling in trophy catches, every moment spent aboard promises an unforgettable adventure. With Captain Ron's expertise and the comfort of the well-equipped vessel, you can focus on the thrill of the chase and the excitement of reeling in your prize. We ensure a comfortable ride, allowing you to enjoy every minute of your fishing experience. Book your offshore sportfishing trip today and prepare for an extraordinary adventure on the open waters of Pompano Beach. Let Captain Ron guide you to a fishing experience of a lifetime, where memories are made, and epic catches await. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pompano Beach

Sunrise Saltwater Slam

100% (4)
47 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Damn Good
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 Rockport
Fishing in Rockport
Fishing in Rockport
trip description for Reel Fun Bay and Flats Trip in Rockport

Captain Jason will customize your trip to your preferences. On your pre-trip call he will advise what has been working recently, but will fish the way you prefer. Fishing out of the boat with cut or live bait for reds, speckled trout or black drum. Drifting the flat with live shrimp under popping corks or lures and soft plastics. Wading shorelines with lures or live bait. It is your trip and wants you to have fun. He fishes primarily for reds, speckled trout and black drum. If you catch a limit of the targeted species or they are simply not bitting, he will always look for feeding fish to catch. His goal is to keep your fishing rods bent and you having fun for the full 6 hours. Typically he launches from Cove Harbor North next to Paradise Key Restaurant. On the pre-trip call launch locations can be changed, depending on the type of trip or bay to be fished. All launch locations changes will be agreed to by both parties on pre-trip call. For parties larger than 4 people he works either several boats to accommodate big parties. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Rockport

Reel Fun Bay And Flats Trip

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
See All Topwater Fishing Trips

Everything to Know About Booking a topwater fishing charter

What are the best topwater fishing charters?

Why should I book a topwater fishing charter with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 436 topwater fishing trips, and the most popular trips are Morning Fishing Trip - 5 hour guided by Shayne, #1 Offshore Charter guided by Brad, and North Padre Texas Classic guided by Kevin.

Our guides are rated a 4.92 out of 5 based on 3284 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 topwater fishing guides / fishing lessons? Check out our beginner and family friendly topwater fishing guides.

What types of topwater fishing charters are common?

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

The most commonly sought after species for topwater fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. black drum, 4. flounder, and 5. mahi mahi.

How much do topwater fishing charters cost?

Prices topwater fishing can range anywhere from about $475 to $2,684, but the average price for a half day trip topwater fishing is $672. The average price for a full day trip topwater fishing is $1,972.

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 going on a topwater fishing charter?

The most popular season to go on a topwater fishing charter is summer, and most anglers book their trips 21 days in advance.

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

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

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Great fishing all day great guy won’t be going to anyone elts when I’m in Florida for fishing go to Doug!!!

    Joshua W. with Doug H. of Delray Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Mike knew the bay very well and did his best to put us on fish. I only had two issues with the trip. It might just be his personality, but I found him to be condescending when I asked questions. I also think he fishes too much. It was like we paid to take him fishing.

    Rick M. with Mike K. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Guys were awesome !! They were all ready to go when I got to the boat Tony and Tony Sr absolute gentlemen and worked very hard and got me mahi, tuna, and barracudas definitely go out with again

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

  • ★★★★★
    James did an excellent job. The fishing was very slow during the day but he kept us moving in an effort to find them which we eventually did. Both of us ended the day with our limits. Easy to talk too. Very knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend him to anyone and I’m planing to go with him again next time.

    Jason H. with James W. of Rockport, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip, captain was very accommodating for me and my friends. He made the day fun even though the fishing wasn’t great. Kept trying to get us on the fish even though the bite was tough.

    Trent H. with Nathan S. of Panama City Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Jake was an awesome guide. He knew his shit about the area and got us on fish on a fun bay trip to take our son out and see how’d he do with bigger water fishing. We will for sure be back to go out deep sea fishing with him next time.

    Jordan K. with Jake D. of Pensacola, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    This trip was so fun, we caught snapper, gafftop, and 2 stingrays, and one was a monster. Andrew knew where to go and his boat was very nice, he’s the best hype man too, always excited when a fish is on! Jeff was the bomb. He made sure we always had our lines ready and in the water and helped us pull up them Rays when our arms were wore out!

    Katelyn B. with Andrew N. of Corpus Christi, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Kids learned so much on their first ever Charter! Lots of fish caught and fun times were had!! Captain Mike knew where to catch today!!

    Robbin C. with Michael W. of Sebastian, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip with Captain Doug. We would definitely book him again. The Captain Experiences team was also great and very responsive.

    Keith M. with Doug E. of Harwich, Massachusetts

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dusty was a very good guide to fish with. He took us out on a last minute notice and we had a hard time finding the fish but he wouldnt leave until he put us on some fish and we limited out. Very respectful and fun to be around. I give him a 10 out of 10. I would recommend his services to anyone.

    Robert C. with Dusty M. of Corpus Christi, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Jake was a great guide and did an amazing job getting us on fish. My son and I will be booking him again for our next trip to Gulf Shores!!

    Aaron G. with Jake D. of Pensacola, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great fishing trip with Captain Wade. I booked our trip for my boyfriend’s 40th birthday for us, and 3 of his friends. Wade had everything we needed and more and provided a fun and laid back experience. We all caught a handful of fish, myself included, who had never fished before. I highly recommend!!

    Rachel B. with Wade O. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Our family had a great time with Ralph, Tati, and Mike! We’ve never deep sea fished before and Mike taught us everything we needed to know! We would definitely book with them again.

    Kevin M. with Ralph M. of Miami, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Spent a half day out with Captain Kenneth! Had an amazing day fishing for black drum, mango snapper, tarpon, and snook. He did an awesome job running the boat and keeping everyone going and hooking the big ones! The questionable weather in Florida didn’t stop us from having a good time. Thank you for the great day!

    Curtis D. with Kenneth K. of Melbourne, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Nate and his mate were about as good as you can get. Kept me up on weather and water situations. Communication was the best I've had from any Capitan. Water was about as bad as it gets he safely got us out and back. Nathan can pilot a boat and can catch fish! I'll book for years to come.

    Joshua B. with Nathan S. of Panama City Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great morning on the water with Captain George. He put us over fish right away. First cast went into the cooler! He was very knowledgeable and courteous. We enjoyed our time on his boat!

    Lindy K. with George H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Tony was great. We'd definitely book again.

    Houston H. with Antonio E. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great experience with Doug during our family vacation to the cape! Fish were caught and memories were made! Highly recommend Doug for your next fishing trip!

    Brianna G. with Doug E. of Harwich, Massachusetts

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Cory was great and the kids had a blast.

    Aaron J. with Cory R. of Aransas Pass, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Wyatt was a great captain! The fish were out but we only landed one - nonetheless, it was still a great trip!! We plan to book again with Wyatt if we can!

    Malory B. with Harry H. of Panama City Beach, Florida

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Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country and beyond.

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:

See All Topwater Fishing Trips