10-Hour Near Shore Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
10-hour nearshore fishing trip targeting multiple speciesAll equipment and fishing license included in priceSmall group experience with maximum 4 guests
When you're serious about putting fish in the boat, this extended 10-hour charter with Catch On Charters is exactly what you need. We're talking about a full day of fishing the productive near shore waters around St. Petersburg, where the Gulf's structure-rich bottom and consistent currents create some of Florida's best fishing opportunities. You'll have plenty of time to work different spots, adjust techniques, and really dial in what's biting that day.
This isn't your typical half-day trip where you're just getting warmed up when it's time to head back. With 10 solid hours, we can hit multiple areas and really maximize your chances at different species. We'll start early to take advantage of the cooler morning bite, then adapt our approach as conditions change throughout the day. The boat accommodates up to 4 anglers, so you'll have plenty of room to fish without getting tangled up in each other's lines. All your tackle, bait, and fishing licenses are covered – just bring yourself, some snacks, and plenty of sunscreen. The near shore waters around St. Pete offer incredible variety, from shallow grass flats where trout love to ambush baitfish to deeper structure where cobia cruise looking for an easy meal.
We'll be running a mix of techniques depending on what we're targeting and where we find the fish. Light tackle spinning gear works great for the trout and smaller mackerel, while we'll step up to medium-heavy conventional setups when we're going after king mackerel or cobia. Live bait is king out here – nothing beats a frisky sardine or pinfish when the fish are being picky. We'll also work artificial lures like spoons, jigs, and soft plastics, especially when the fish are actively feeding. The wrecks and artificial reefs in 15-40 feet of water are absolute magnets for baitfish, and where there's bait, there's always something bigger looking to feed. Structure fishing requires patience and the right approach – we'll anchor up or drift depending on current and wind, and work our baits at different depths until we figure out where they're holding.
King mackerel are the real prize out here, especially during their peak season from late fall through early spring. These silver rockets can stretch 20-40 inches and provide some of the most exciting fights you'll experience in near shore waters. They're notorious for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps, and when a king hits your bait, you'll know it immediately. We typically find them around the deeper wrecks and reef structure, where they patrol for schools of baitfish.
Sea trout are our bread-and-butter species year-round, with the grass flats around St. Pete being prime habitat. These spotted beauties typically run 14-20 inches, with occasional "gator trout" pushing 24 inches or more. They're ambush predators that love to hide in the grass and attack unsuspecting shrimp or small fish. What makes trout fishing so addictive is their willingness to hit both live bait and artificials, plus they're excellent table fare.
Cobia are the wildcards that can make your entire trip. These brown sharks (as some call them) can show up anywhere from 20-50 pounds and are incredibly curious fish. They'll often swim right up to the boat to investigate, giving you a shot at sight fishing – one of the most exciting ways to target them. Cobia are strong fighters that don't give up easily, and their firm white meat makes them a favorite among anglers who like to eat their catch.
Spanish mackerel are the speed demons of the group, smaller than their king mackerel cousins but just as aggressive. They school up around structure and baitfish, often creating feeding frenzies that result in non-stop action. They're perfect for anglers who want consistent action and are great for kids or beginners since they fight hard but aren't overwhelming.
Southern flounder are the bottom-dwelling specialists that require a different approach entirely. These masters of camouflage lie buried in sand and mud, waiting for prey to swim overhead. Fishing for flounder means working baits along the bottom around structure, inlets, and drop-offs. They're not the strongest fighters, but they're incredibly good eating and present a fun challenge with their subtle bite.
A 10-hour charter gives you the kind of fishing experience that creates lasting memories and stories you'll tell for years. With this much time on the water, we can adjust to conditions, move between spots, and really put you on fish. The near shore waters around St. Petersburg consistently produce quality catches year-round, and with experienced local knowledge, you'll fish the most productive areas at the right times. Whether you're looking to put dinner on the table, chase that personal best, or just enjoy a full day on the Gulf, this extended trip delivers the goods. Don't wait – prime dates fill up fast, especially during peak fishing seasons.
Step aboard our well-equipped motorboat for a full day of nearshore fishing in St Petersburg's productive waters. This reliable vessel comes loaded with everything serious anglers need - a quality fish finder to locate those holding spots, GPS to keep us on the best structures, and VHF radio for safe communication. The onboard ice box keeps your catch fresh throughout the long day. With 10 hours on the water, we'll hit the wrecks and reefs where Flounder, Trout, Mackerel, and Cobia hang out. The boat handles nearshore conditions with ease, giving you a stable platform whether you're working the bottom for grouper or sight-casting to cruising Cobia. All your tackle and licenses are covered, so just bring yourself and get ready for a productive day targeting multiple species in some of Florida's best fishing grounds.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the bruisers of nearshore fishing - brown, shark-looking fish that average 20-40 pounds and fight like they're twice that size. They're loners, usually found cruising around buoys, wrecks, and structure in 30-100 feet of water. Spring migration brings the best action when they're moving through in big numbers. What makes cobia fishing special is sight fishing - you'll actually see these fish swimming near the surface before you cast. The meat is outstanding, firm and white like a cross between shark and grouper. They're aggressive and will hit bucktail jigs, live crabs, or eels. Pro tip: once you hook a cobia, keep steady pressure and don't let them get back to structure. They'll wrap you up in a heartbeat.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing mackerel are one of the fastest fish in the Gulf, typically running 10-30 pounds with some pushing 50+. These silver torpedoes cruise nearshore waters from 40-150 feet, especially around wrecks and structure. Spring through fall offers the best action when they're feeding aggressively on baitfish. What makes kings special is their blistering runs - they'll strip line faster than almost any fish out here. The meat is excellent grilled or smoked, though watch the mercury if you're pregnant. Here's a local tip: always use a wire leader and rig two hooks on your live bait - one through the nose, one trailing behind. Kings love to hit the tail first, and that stinger hook will save you from a lot of missed fish.
Salmo TruttaSpotted sea trout, or "specks" as we call them, are a staple of Tampa Bay fishing. These beautiful fish average 14-20 inches and love grass flats and shallow structure in 2-8 feet of water. They bite year-round but really turn on during cooler months when they school up in deeper channels. What guests love about trout is their willingness to hit both live bait and artificials - plus they're fantastic eating with flaky white meat. They're not huge fighters, but they're consistent and perfect for families. The key to catching more trout is working the grass edges at dawn or dusk with a popping cork and live shrimp. Keep your bait just above the grass tops and let the cork do the calling.
Paralichthys LethostigmaSouthern flounder are the masters of disguise - flat, brown fish that bury themselves in sand and mud waiting to ambush prey. They typically run 15-18 inches and up to 5 pounds, though big "doormat" flounder can hit 20+ pounds. You'll find them on sandy bottoms, around structure, and in shallow bays year-round, but fall brings the best fishing as they move toward deeper water. Flounder are prized for their mild, sweet meat that's hard to beat on the dinner table. They're not flashy fighters, but landing a big one takes skill. The trick is drifting slowly with live shrimp or bull minnows on a light jig head. When you feel that subtle tap, count to three before setting the hook - flounder need time to turn the bait around.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are the perfect action fish - scrappy 1-3 pounders with beautiful yellow spots that show up in big schools. You'll find them near the surface around 20-60 feet, especially over structure and wrecks. They're most active spring through fall when water temps are up. What people love about Spanish is the constant action - when you find a school, you can catch dozens. They hit fast and fight hard for their size, plus they make excellent table fare with mild, flaky meat that's perfect for the grill. These fish have razor-sharp teeth, so bring a wire leader or they'll cut you off all day. Look for diving birds and baitfish activity - that's where the Spanish will be feeding.
Clearwater