Hey there, fellow angler! Ready to kick off your day with some serious rod-bending action? Our morning fishing charters in Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg are just the ticket. Picture this: you're out on the water as the sun's coming up, the air's crisp, and the fish are hungry. That's the scene Captain Andy sets for you on these top-rated trips. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered. With room for up to four guests, it's perfect for a family outing or a day out with your fishing buddies. Just remember, we're here to fish, not feed you, so grab some grub before you hop aboard!
Listen up, because here's the lowdown on how we roll. We're talking inshore fishing at its finest – no need for dramamine here! We'll be cruising the flats, mangrove shorelines, and grass beds where the big boys hang out. Captain Andy's got all the gear you need, from rods and reels to live bait. He'll show you the ropes on everything from sight casting to working a topwater lure. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the explosion of a snook hitting your bait right by the mangroves. We use light tackle mostly, so you feel every head shake and run. It's all about finesse and knowing the spots – and trust me, Captain Andy knows where they're biting.
You know what keeps folks coming back to fish Tampa Bay? It's not just the fish – it's the whole package. One day you're sight fishing for tailing redfish in gin-clear water, the next you're battling a silver king tarpon that's jumping like it's got springs. The variety here is insane. And let's not forget the scenery – dolphins playing in the wake, manatees cruising by, and birds diving for bait. It's like a nature show, but you're in it. Plus, with Captain Andy at the helm, you're not just catching fish, you're learning tricks that'll up your game wherever you wet a line.
Alright, let's talk fish. We've got a lineup that'll make any angler's heart race. First up, the snook – these guys are the rock stars of inshore fishing. They're smart, they fight hard, and they're not afraid to break your heart (and your line). Spring and fall are prime time for snook, but they're around all year. They love to ambush prey near structure, so we'll be working those mangrove edges and dock pilings.
Next, we've got redfish. These copper-colored beauties are a sight to behold, especially when you spot them tailing in shallow water. They've got a spot on their tail that makes them look like they've got eyes in the back of their head. Reds are bulldogs – they'll test your drag and your patience. Fall is fantastic for big schools of redfish, but you can catch them year-round.
Don't sleep on the spotted seatrout. They might not be the biggest fish in the bay, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and taste. These guys are suckers for a well-presented artificial lure, and they're a blast on light tackle. Winter's a great time for gator trout – the big ones that'll make you forget all about their smaller cousins.
Last but not least, the mighty tarpon. If you've never hooked into one of these silver missiles, you're in for a treat. They grow big – we're talking 100+ pounds – and they jump like they're trying to reach orbit. Tarpon season peaks from late spring through summer, and hooking one is like hitting the fishing lottery. Be ready for an arm-wrenching battle that might leave you sore, but grinning from ear to ear.
Now, I could tell you about all the fish we've been catching, but let's keep some mystery alive, shall we? What I will say is that the bite has been on fire lately. We've had days where the redfish were so thick, you could practically walk across their backs. Snook have been crushing topwater lures at first light, and the trout bite in the deeper grass flats has been steady. And for you tarpon junkies, we've been seeing some real monsters rolling through the passes. It's the kind of action that'll have you checking your work schedule to see when you can get back out here.
Look, I could go on all day about the fishing here in Tampa and St. Pete, but the truth is, you've gotta experience it for yourself. There's a reason why our trips are often booked solid – the fishing is just that good. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a morning on the water, we've got you covered. Don't let another season slip by without getting in on this action. Give Captain Andy a shout, pick a date, and let's get you hooked up with some Tampa Bay giants. Trust me, once you fish these waters, you'll be plotting your return before you even get back to the dock. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Let's make some fishing memories!
Redfish are one of our hardest-fighting inshore species. Also called red drum, they're easily identified by that black spot near the tail. Most run 18-27 inches in the bay, but you can find real bulls over 40 inches in deeper water. Reds love to cruise the shallows, often in water so skinny their backs are out of the water. Look for them around oyster bars, mangroves, and grass flats. Fall is prime time when big schools push into the bay. Redfish will crush a well-placed artificial, but it's hard to beat a chunk of cut mullet or pinfish on the bottom. They pull like freight trains and taste great too. Here's a local secret: On super low tides, look for redfish tailing in flooded grass - it's sight fishing at its finest.
Spotted seatrout, or speckled trout, are a staple of Tampa Bay fishing. These silver fish with dark spots usually run 15-20 inches but can get up to 30. You'll find them over grass flats and deeper holes, often in 2-6 feet of water. They're active year-round but really turn on in spring and fall. Trout put up a good fight on light tackle and make excellent table fare. Live shrimp under a popping cork is deadly, but soft plastics work great too. I love targeting them with topwater lures at first light - the surface strikes are a blast. They tend to school up, so if you catch one, there are likely more around. Pro tip: When you feel that telltale tap-tap, don't set the hook immediately. Let them take it for a second before reeling down and setting.
Snook are one of the most popular gamefish here in Tampa Bay. They typically run 24-34 inches and put up an awesome fight. You'll find them hanging around mangroves, docks, and other structure in shallow water. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are in the 70s. Snook are ambush predators, so I like to cast lures or live bait right up against the mangroves or structure. They'll explode on topwater plugs too. The meat is delicious, but we practice catch and release to protect the population. Landing a big snook is always a thrill - they'll make blistering runs and leap clear out of the water. Just watch out for those razor-sharp gill plates when you're handling them. My top tip: Use a slow, twitching retrieve to trigger their predatory instinct.
Tarpon are the silver kings of Tampa Bay. These prehistoric beasts can top 150 pounds and put on an acrobatic show like no other. We find them in deeper channels and passes, especially during their spring and early summer migration. Sight fishing for rolling tarpon is a rush. When hooked, expect them to tail walk and leap repeatedly. It's all about the fight with tarpon - we always release them. Spring to early summer is prime time, but we get shots at resident fish year-round. Live bait like pinfish or crabs work well, but nothing beats the thrill of a tarpon crushing a well-placed fly. Patience is key - you might only get a few shots all day. My advice: When a tarpon goes airborne, bow to the king by lowering your rod tip. It'll help keep them hooked.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300