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Best Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing - Full Day Trip
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Tampa Bay
- $395 - $2,995 price range
Summary
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Fun Tampa Bay Fishing Charter
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Full Day Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing Adventure
Ready for a day of non-stop action on Tampa Bay? Captain Brian's got you covered with this 8-hour inshore fishing trip that'll have you reeling in the good times. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this is the perfect chance to experience some of the best fishing Tampa Bay has to offer. We'll cruise up to 10 miles offshore, chasing after a mixed bag of species that'll keep your rod bent and your heart racing. With top-notch gear and an expert guide by your side, you're in for a day of fishing you won't soon forget.
What to Expect on the Water
Picture this: You're out on the crystal-clear waters of Tampa Bay, the sun's warming your face, and there's a cold drink in the cooler. Captain Brian's at the helm, using his years of local knowledge to put you right where the fish are biting. You'll be targeting a variety of species, from the hard-fighting Spanish Mackerel to the elusive Cobia. The beauty of inshore fishing is the constant action - one minute you're battling a feisty Redfish, the next you're trying to outsmart a crafty Sheepshead. And don't forget about the possibility of hooking into a shark for some real heart-pounding excitement. With room for two anglers (and the option to add more for a small fee), it's the perfect trip for a couple of buddies or a family outing.
Fishing Techniques & Gear
On this trip, we'll be using a mix of techniques to maximize our chances of landing the big one. Depending on the species we're after and the conditions on the day, we might be doing some light trolling, casting lures, or soaking live bait. Captain Brian's got all the top-quality gear you need, from rods and reels to lures and bait. He'll show you the ropes if you're new to fishing, or if you're more experienced, he might share some local tricks that'll up your game. We'll be fishing in relatively shallow waters, typically anywhere from 5 to 30 feet deep, which means you'll often be able to see the fish before they even bite - talk about exciting!
Top Catches This Season
Tampa Bay is teeming with fish year-round, but some species really shine during certain seasons. In the warmer months, you can expect to tangle with hard-fighting Redfish and speedy Spanish Mackerel. As the water cools down, the Sheepshead start to show up in force, offering a real challenge with their light bite and powerful runs. And let's not forget about the Cobia - these bruisers can show up any time of year and will give you a fight you won't forget. Captain Brian keeps his finger on the pulse of what's biting, so you can be sure you'll be in the right spot at the right time for whatever's hot.
Species You'll Want to Hook
King Mackerel: Also known as Kingfish, these speedsters are the sprinters of the sea. They can grow up to 5 feet long and weigh over 60 pounds, making them a prized catch for any angler. Kings are known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked. They're most abundant in the spring and fall, but can be caught year-round in Tampa Bay. Trolling with live bait or spoons is the go-to method for these silver missiles.
Cobia: Often called "crab eaters" or "ling," Cobia are the bulldogs of the ocean. They're curious fish that often swim right up to the boat, giving you a chance for some sight fishing action. Cobia can grow to over 100 pounds and are known for their powerful, determined fights. They're most common in the warmer months but can surprise you any time of year. Cobia love live bait, especially eels or crabs, and will also hit jigs and swim baits.
Tripletail: These oddball fish are a real treat to catch. They get their name from their rounded fins that make them look like they have three tails. Tripletail are masters of disguise, often floating on their sides near the surface to mimic floating debris. They're ambush predators with a soft mouth, so finesse is key when fighting them. Look for them around buoys, markers, and floating debris. They're excellent eating and put up a surprisingly strong fight for their size.
Spanish Mackerel: These smaller cousins of the King Mackerel are the perfect gamefish for light tackle enthusiasts. They're fast, they strike hard, and they're delicious on the dinner table. Spanish Mackerel typically show up in big numbers during the spring and fall migrations. They're often found in large schools, providing non-stop action when you find them. Casting small spoons or jigs into feeding frenzies is a blast, and trolling with planers can be deadly effective.
Bluefish: Known for their aggressive feeding habits and sharp teeth, Bluefish are a blast to catch. They often travel in schools, slashing through bait with reckless abandon. When Bluefish are around, the action can be fast and furious. They put up a great fight on light tackle and are known for their powerful runs. Bluefish can be caught year-round in Tampa Bay, but are most common in the cooler months. Be careful when handling these toothy critters - they've got a nasty bite!
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
It's not just about the fish - though that's a big part of it. Tampa Bay offers some of the most diverse inshore fishing you'll find anywhere. One minute you're sight-casting to tailing Redfish in the shallows, the next you're battling a monster Shark in deeper water. The scenery is stunning, with mangrove-lined shores, crystal clear flats, and the chance to spot dolphins, manatees, and all sorts of birds. And let's not forget about Captain Brian - his local knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to put you on fish make every trip a winner. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a day on the water, this trip delivers time and time again.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, folks, if you're not itching to get out on the water by now, check your pulse! This full-day Tampa Bay inshore fishing trip is the real deal. You've got an experienced captain, top-notch gear, and some of the best fishing grounds in Florida right at your fingertips. Whether you're dreaming of battling a big Cobia, filling the cooler with tasty Mackerel, or just soaking up the sun and scenery, this trip has got you covered. Remember, the base rate covers two anglers, but you can bring along extra friends or family for just $50 more per person. And here's a pro tip: these trips can fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book. Get your spot locked in now and get ready for a day of fishing you'll be talking about for years to come. Just remember, the deposit is non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Bluefish
King mackerel are prized gamefish that'll make your reel sing. They typically run 10-20 pounds but can reach over 50 pounds. You'll find them in open water from spring through fall, often following schools of baitfish. Kings are fast and powerful - they'll smoke a reel in seconds. Trolling with live bait or large spoons is effective. These speedsters fight hard with blistering runs and occasional jumps. The meat is good eating when prepared fresh. Pro tip: use a stinger rig when fishing live bait for kings. They often short-strike baits, so a trailing hook increases your hookup ratio. Once you're hooked up, hang on tight and enjoy the ride!
Cobia
Spanish mackerel are fast-moving fish that provide great light tackle action. They usually run 2-4 pounds but can reach up to 12 pounds. You'll find them near the surface in open water, often in large schools. They show up in Tampa Bay from spring through fall, following baitfish migrations. Spanish macks are lightning quick and will hit just about any shiny lure. Trolling with small spoons or casting jigs into feeding schools are good bets. These fish put up an exciting fight on light gear, making lots of runs. The meat is pretty tasty too, especially when eaten fresh. Here's a tip: look for diving birds to find schools of Spanish mackerel feeding on the surface. Cast your lure just beyond the school and retrieve quickly through the frenzy.
King Mackerel
Bluefish are a hard-fighting game fish that'll give you a real workout. These aggressive predators typically run 3-5 pounds but can get up to 20 pounds or more. Look for them in bays, tidal rivers, and along beaches from late spring through fall. They migrate south for winter, following schools of baitfish. Bluefish are known for their feeding frenzies - they'll churn up the water attacking bait, which is pretty cool to see. They've got a mouthful of sharp teeth, so watch your fingers when unhooking them. Most folks either love or hate eating bluefish. Smaller ones under 5 pounds tend to taste better. A local tip: try trolling with surgical tubing lures or casting metal spoons into feeding schools. The fight is half the fun with these guys - they'll make your drag scream and often jump clear out of the water.
Spanish Mackerel
Cobia are hard-fighting fish that'll test your angling skills. They typically run 20-40 pounds but can reach over 100 pounds. Look for them around buoys, markers, and floating structure from spring through fall. Cobia are curious fish - they'll often investigate boats or follow large rays and sharks. Sight fishing for them is exciting. Use live eels, crabs, or large jigs. These bruisers fight like a cross between a shark and a amberjack, making long powerful runs. The meat is excellent too - firm and mild-flavored. Here's a local tip: when you spot a cobia, cast well beyond it and retrieve your bait right by the fish. They can be finicky, so be patient and persistent. Once hooked, get ready for a battle royale.
Tripletail
Tripletail are an odd-looking fish that provide a unique angling experience. They typically run 5-15 pounds but can reach over 30 pounds. You'll often spot them floating on their sides near buoys, channel markers, or floating debris. They show up in Tampa Bay waters from late spring through fall. Tripletail are ambush predators - they'll lie motionless then suddenly attack prey. Sight fishing for them is a blast. Use live shrimp or small crabs on a light fluorocarbon leader. These fish put up a good fight with strong runs and some jumping. The meat is excellent too - firm, white, and delicious. Pro tip: approach spotted tripletail slowly and quietly. Make a long cast past them and slowly retrieve your bait right by their nose. The bite is often subtle, so set the hook when you feel any resistance.
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
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Horsepower per Engine: 200
