Optimus Fishing Charters Customer Reviews

Name: Optimus Fishing Charters
Brand: Optimus Fishing Charters
Rating: 5 (88 reviews)

100% would recommend

5/5

From 88
verified reviews

Jack AI Customer Experience Snapshot

Captain Brian Lemelin consistently delivers exceptional fishing results across Tampa Bay's diverse waters, with customers regularly catching 20+ fish per trip including snook, redfish, sharks, trout, Spanish mackerel, and sheephead. His extensive knowledge of local currents and fishing spots ensures success even in challenging conditions like windy weather or red tide, with many guests achieving their "inshore slam" and taking home enough fish for dinner. Brian provides hands-on instruction from baiting hooks to proper reeling techniques, making novice anglers feel confident while accommodating experienced fishermen. Brian creates memorable family experiences that go far beyond typical fishing charters, playing favorite songs for toddlers, physically helping young children catch and reel in fish, and teaching the art of fishing to three-generation groups. Customers appreciate his patient, energetic personality and willingness to extend trips beyond scheduled time to maximize success. He fillets catches right at the dock, recommends local restaurants for preparation, and often surprises guests with wildlife sightings including dolphins, manatees, and stingrays. Multiple families book repeat trips and consistently recommend Brian to other anglers.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Variety Of Species

Family-Friendly

Knowledgeable

Patient Instruction

Wildlife Sightings

Extended Trips

Dock Filleting

Repeat Customers

Photos from Real Customers

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Angler fishing alone in unknown location

Fishing with friends at unknown location

Angler catching a fish during a fishing trip at an unknown location

A person fishing with a big 23-inch fish

Two people fishing in a scenic outdoor location

A lone spotted weakfish, a 15-inch catch, against an unspecified backdrop.

Two people fishing in an unknown location

Seven anglers fishing at a scenic location

A scenic fishing scene at an unknown location

Angler with fishing rod in unknown location

Three people fishing in a scenic location

Image of 2 people fishing at an unknown location

Catching a Spanish Mackerel fish while fishing

Crevalle Jack fish caught by person fishing

Most Reviewed Trip

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All Reviews

Alex Cruz

September 4, 2025

Trip - Tampa Bay Guided Fishing Charter for Redfish and Spanish Mackerel on September 4, 2025

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Max 1 guest

I had an awesome experience fishing with Brian! He was knowledgeable, friendly, and really knew the best spots to find fish. We ended up catching a variety of different species, which made the trip both exciting and memorable. Brian made the whole experience easy and enjoyable, from start to finish. If you’re looking for a fun day on the water with a guide who knows his stuff, I highly recommend booking a trip with him!

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Alexis Dorrell

June 16, 2025

Trip - Tampa Bay Guided Fishing Charter for Redfish and Spanish Mackerel on June 15, 2025

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Max 4 guests

I can not believe how great of a time we had! We booked for Father’s Day & we had our two toddlers with us -which of course makes this charter a whole different experience & captain Bryan made sure our charter was so family inclusive its was such a wonderful time! From playing their favorite songs to him physically catching fish and letting them reel them in the kids had a blast!! Can’t thank you enough Cap!

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Captain BrianReplied on June 16, 2025

Alexis Dorrell, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.

Thank you all for spending some time on the water with us. Really enjoyed the trip with your wonderful family.

Mary Wangen

March 14, 2025

Trip - Tampa Bay Guided Fishing Charter for Redfish and Spanish Mackerel on March 14, 2025

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Max 1 guest

Brian and Brian were both amazing fishing guides! They were very knowledgeable and took great care of us during our time with them. Both kids and adults enjoyed this trip. Thank you so much!

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Ken Anderson

February 13, 2025

Trip - Tampa Bay Guided Fishing Charter for Redfish and Spanish Mackerel on February 13, 2025

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Max 2 guests

Awesome time. Best captain on the water

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Daniel Miller

December 28, 2024

Trip - Tampa Bay Guided Fishing Charter for Redfish and Spanish Mackerel on December 26, 2024

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Max 5 guests

Captain Brian was great! Fun and energetic, great with kids and newbie fishermen. Helped us find a good assortment of inshore fish, and a handful of sharks!

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Brian Dockter

November 29, 2024

Trip - Tampa Bay Guided Fishing Charter for Redfish and Spanish Mackerel on November 29, 2024

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Max 2 guests

Great trip! When we are in the Tampa area, I will definitely book again with Optimus fishing!

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Captain BrianReplied on December 2, 2024

Brian, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.

Darlene H

March 11, 2024

Trip - on March 11, 2024

Captain Brian of Optimus Fishing was absolutely fantastic! With his wealth of experience, he ensured everyone caught fish by providing clear explanations and guidance. Despite windy conditions, he delayed our departure to maximize our chances and even extended our trip beyond the scheduled time. We wholeheartedly recommend Optimus Fishing with Captain Brian for an exceptional fishing experience!

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William B

March 6, 2024

Trip - on March 6, 2024

Brian did an outstanding job, taking the time to teach three boys the art of fishing. His expertise led us straight to where the fish were biting. We highly recommend him!

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Wendell B

February 25, 2024

Trip - on February 25, 2024

Throughout our trip, Captain Brian provided us with an exceptional experience from start to finish. His knowledge, kindness, and engaging nature made the entire journey enjoyable. As my son and I embarked on our adventure, Captain Brian expressed his joy in witnessing a father and son bonding over such experiences. He went above and beyond to ensure our trip was successful, and we look forward to booking with him again in the future. I guarantee you won't find a better deal or experience elsewhere.

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Tina H

February 1, 2024

Trip - on February 1, 2024

On February 1st, we had an amazing fishing experience with Brian. He was not only a great communicator but also incredibly knowledgeable about the entire Tampa Bay area. We caught fish successfully at every spot, making for a relaxing and enjoyable day on the water. Additionally, we were fortunate to see dolphins, manatees, stingrays, and even sharks! I will certainly book with Brian and Optimus Fishing again the next time we're in Tampa, and I highly recommend them to everyone!

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Rob Senica

December 31, 2023

Trip - Tampa Bay Guided Fishing Charter for Redfish and Spanish Mackerel on December 31, 2023

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Max 6 guests

Brian is a great captain and fisherman

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Captain BrianReplied on January 3, 2024

Thank you. Had a great time with you and your wonderful family.

Greg Manning

November 23, 2023

Trip - on November 23, 2023

We had a great day on the water with Captain Brian. We are not the most experienced fishermen and Captain Brian was very patient and gracious with us losing his gear in the mangroves. Will definitely be booking again so stock up on some more gear Captain..Thank you for helping make a great memory with my kids..

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Top Tampa Bay Fishing Charter

What Guests Are Saying About Optimus Fishing Charters in Tampa Bay

At Optimus Fishing Charters, our Tampa Bay fishing charter reviews speak volumes about the unforgettable experiences we offer. Guests consistently praise the quality of our guided fishing trips, highlighting everything from our skilled guides to the well-maintained boats and top-notch equipment. Anglers of all experience levels love the variety of fish they catch, including snook, redfish, tarpon, and trout, and many have become repeat customers after experiencing our personalized approach. These customer testimonials showcase not only the exciting catches but also the memorable moments spent on the water, the scenic beauty of Tampa Bay, and the professional yet friendly service that sets us apart.

Trusted by Anglers Across Tampa Bay

Our reviews reflect the dedication and expertise of our guides, who tailor each trip to the interests and skill level of every guest. From first-time anglers to seasoned fishermen, visitors rave about the attention to detail, local fishing knowledge, and the fun, safe experience they enjoy on every outing. Optimus Fishing Charters is proud to have built a loyal community of happy guests who return again and again for inshore fishing adventures, private charters, and trophy catches. See what others are saying and book your Tampa Bay fishing trip today to create your own unforgettable memories!