The 10 Best Types of Fishing Charters Anna Maria and Tampa

Find the Best Florida Fishing Charter for Your Next Trip

Whether you’re vacationing in the Sunshine State or a local angler itching to cast a line, Florida’s vast coastlines and rich waters offer a fishing charter experience like no other. With options ranging from Florida inshore fishing trips to adrenaline-pumping deep-sea Gulf of Mexico adventures, there’s something for every level of experience and interest.

We welcome you to dive into the heart of Florida’s fishing paradise, where crystal-clear waters and saltwater fish species promise unforgettable angling adventures

Best Fishing Charters for Your Next Trip to Anna Maria or Tampa Florida

Welcome to the vibrant waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast, where fishing adventures await at every turn. As Captain Randall of Florida Fishing Company, I’m here to guide you through the 10 best fishing charters that promise unforgettable experiences, whether you’re a seasoned angler or looking for family fun. From the deep blue sea to inshore waters, let’s dive into the opportunities that await in Tampa Bay and Florida’s West Central Coast.

Florida Fishing Company Locations

Best Fishing Trips For Experienced Anglers:


For the experienced angler, Florida’s fishing trips promise an exhilarating challenge and the chance to engage with some of the most coveted saltwater fish in the world. Venture into the deep blue waters offshore for a battle with marlin, sailfish, and giant tuna, or stalk the shallow flats for the elusive tarpon and redfish

Fishing Charters for Avid Anglers

Deep Sea Fishing:

Offshore Fishing for Pelagic species such as Mahi, sailfish, and tuna off the coast for a thrilling challenge.

Florida deep sea fishing offers an adrenaline-fueled adventure offshore, targeting large species like marlin, sailfish, and tuna. Anglers head miles into the Atlantic or Gulf of Mexico, using heavy tackle to battle these powerful fish. It’s an intense experience, promising the thrill of the catch and the chance for a trophy fish.

Flats Fishing:

Stalk redfish, tarpon, and permit in the shallow, crystal-clear waters.

Florida flats fishing is an exhilarating activity in shallow waters where anglers target species like tarpon, bonefish, and redfish using light tackle or fly fishing gear. This technique emphasizes stealth and precision, as anglers sight fish in clear, shallow environments. It combines skill and patience, offering a unique challenge and the reward of engaging with game fish in their natural habitat against a backdrop of stunning landscapes.

Backcountry Fishing:

Discover the rich fishing of the Everglades, targeting snook, redfish, and trout.


Florida Backcountry fishing provides a serene and scenic angling experience in the sheltered waters behind the coastal flats and keys, often within the mangrove forests, grassy shallows, and estuaries. This tranquil setting is home to a rich biodiversity, including snook, redfish, trout, and tarpon, offering a mix of sight fishing and casting into likely hiding spots.

Wreck Fishing:

Explore sunken ships and artificial reefs for hefty grouper and amberjack.


Florida wreck fishing targets species around shipwrecks and artificial reefs, like grouper and snapper, using techniques like bottom fishing and jigging. It offers a mix of sport and exploration, appealing to those intrigued by the ocean’s depth and history.

Bottom Fishing Coastal Reefs:


Florida Bottom Fishing on coastal reefs involves dropping bait or lures to the ocean floor where structures like reefs and wrecks attract a variety of fish, including grouper, snapper, and amberjack.

This technique allows anglers to target species that dwell near these underwater habitats, offering both excitement and the potential for significant catches. It’s a popular method due to the abundance of fish and the relatively straightforward approach, making it suitable for both novice and experienced anglers seeking a productive day on the water.

These trips push your skills to the limit, as you navigate the diverse ecosystems of the Gulf and Atlantic. Expert guides with specialized knowledge will take you to the most productive spots, ensuring a thrilling adventure.

Most Common Fishing Trips for Families, Friends:

Florida fishing trips for families, friends, and those new to the angling world are designed to offer an enjoyable, stress-free experience on the water. Inshore or nearshore fishing trip where the waters are calmer and the fish are plentiful. These trips often target a variety of species such as redfish, trout, and flounder, which are not only fun to catch but also perfect for beginners. Our professional guides will ensure you’re equipped with the right gear and knowledge, making it easy for everyone to get in on the action.

Inshore Fishing Charters:

Perfect for all ages, targeting redfish, trout, and other common inshore species.

Florida Inshore Fishing Charters focus on fishing the coastal waters and estuaries close to shore, targeting a variety of species such as redfish, spotted sea trout, snook, and tarpon.

These charters are popular for their accessibility and the diversity of fish available year-round. Anglers can expect to use a mix of live bait and artificial lures, with techniques ranging from casting under docks to sight fishing in clear flats. These trips offer a great introduction to fishing for beginners while still providing excitement for seasoned anglers.

Family-Friendly Boat Tours & Fishing Combo:

A mix of light tackle fishing and delightful dolphin sightings.

Florida’s family-friendly boat tours are designed to entertain and educate visitors of all ages, showcasing the state’s stunning coastal landscapes, diverse marine life, and picturesque waterways.

These tours often include dolphin watching, manatee encounters, and bird spotting, providing a gentle introduction to the natural beauty and wildlife of Florida. Many tours are tailored to be interactive, offering opportunities for snorkeling and/or fishing.

Nearshore Reef Fishing:

Simple and exciting, ideal for catching snapper and grouper close to shore.


Florida nearshore reef fishing involves casting lines around reefs and wrecks located relatively close to the coastline, typically within a few miles offshore. These areas are hotspots for a variety of fish species including snapper, grouper, and sheepshead, attracted by the structure and abundant food sources.

Anglers can expect to use lighter tackle compared to deep sea fishing, making it accessible for all ages and experience levels. It’s an excellent way to experience the thrill of saltwater fishing without venturing too far into open waters, offering both action-packed catches

Scalloping Charters:

A summer favorite in Crystal River or Homosassa, where you can snorkel for scallops.


Scalloping charters in Homosassa and Crystal River, Florida, provide a fun and family-friendly water activity that combines snorkeling in the clear, shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico with the treasure hunt-like task of collecting scallops.

These scallop areas are renowned for their lush seagrass beds, which serve as the perfect habitat for scallops. From late June to early September, participants can expect to swim in warm waters, often just a few feet deep, as they search for and gather these delicious shellfish

Shark Fishing:

Experience the thrill of battling the Gulf’s giants, a test of skill and strength for any angler.


Florida shark fishing is an exhilarating and often intense angling adventure targeting various shark species along Florida’s coasts and offshore waters. Anglers might encounter species such as blacktip, bull, and possibly hammerhead sharks. This type of fishing can be done using heavy tackle and bait to attract these powerful predators. It requires strength, patience, and respect for these powerful fish.

It’s not just about the catch; it’s about making memories, enjoying the scenic views, and perhaps even spotting some wildlife. Whether you’re bonding with family, sharing laughs with friends, or discovering a new hobby, Florida’s fishing charters offer a welcoming introduction to the world of fishing.

Best Times to Catch Fish in Florida:

SpeciesBest Times to Catch
TarponMarch – July
SnookMarch – November
RedfishYear-round, peak: September – November
Spotted Sea TroutYear-round, peak: February – May
GrouperYear-round, peak: November – March
SnapperYear-round, peak: June – October
KingfishMarch – October
Spanish MackerelMarch – November
CobiaMarch – May
PermitApril – September


Why Choose Florida Fishing Company?

Our charters are specifically designed around Tampa Bay and Florida’s West Central Coast, offering both the novice and the seasoned angler a rich, varied experience. With local knowledge and personalized guidance, we ensure your trip is memorable. But hurry, our 2024 trips are filling up quickly!

Ready? Book a Fishing Charter

Embark on your Florida fishing adventure today. Whether seeking the thrill of deep sea fishing or a family-friendly outing, we have something for everyone. Contact us now to secure your spot and experience the best of Florida’s Gulf Coast fishing.

Don’t miss out on the fishing trip of a lifetime. Book now and secure your 2024 adventure with Florida Fishing Company!