Chum em up charters
Punta Gorda FL
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Chum em up charters
Punta Gorda FL
Your Captain
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Michael Castaldi
Identity Verified
Michael Castaldi, Captain at Chum em up charters
Welcome to Chum Em Up Charters, where unforgettable fishing experiences await you under the expert guidance of Captain Michael Castaldi. With a deep passion for the sea and a wealth of knowledge about local waters, Captain Castaldi ensures that every trip is a thrilling adventure. Our center console boat, a meticulously restored 20-foot Century built in 1998 and updated in 2023, is perfectly equipped to provide you with both comfort and safety as you pursue your fishing dreams.
At Chum Em Up Charters, we pride ourselves on offering personalized fishing excursions for up to three guests. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice eager to learn, our charters are designed to cater to your needs and skill levels. The boat features a powerful Yamaha engine with 115HP, allowing you to reach the best fishing spots quickly and efficiently. This means you can maximize your time on the water and focus on what really matters: reeling in that big catch.
Fishing enthusiasts will be thrilled with our diverse target species, which include Black Drum, Cobia, Gag Grouper, Jack Crevalle, Redfish, Blacktip Shark, Sheepshead, Mangrove Snapper, Snook, Speckled Trout, and Tarpon. Each fishing expedition is tailored to the season and conditions, ensuring the best chance of a successful catch. Captain Castaldi's extensive experience and expertise in local fishing spots means you’re always in the right place at the right time, ready for an exciting day on the water.
Safety and comfort are paramount at Chum Em Up Charters. Our 20-foot center console boat is designed for ease of movement, giving anglers plenty of space to maneuver as they reel in their catches. Equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and safety gear, you can relax and fully enjoy the experience, knowing you’re in capable hands. The boat's layout is designed to provide a smooth ride, whether you're cruising to the fishing grounds or battling a feisty fish.
Join us at Chum Em Up Charters for a fishing adventure like no other. Book your trip with Captain Michael Castaldi today and experience the thrill of reeling in your dream catch while exploring the stunning waters of our fishing grounds. Whether you're looking for a half-day of fishing or a full-day adventure, we guarantee a memorable experience that will leave you longing to return. With Chum Em Up Charters, let’s make your fishing dreams come true! Your adventure awaits, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
Upcoming Availability
Expertise & Attributes
fishing
Good with New Anglers
Nature / Wildlife Views
Live BaitFishing Techniques
What's Included
Good to Knows
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
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License
Read about the licensing details that is / is not covered in the below trips.
Nature / Wildlife Views
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
Cancellation Policy
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
What's Included
Good to Knows
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
License
Read about the licensing details that is / is not covered in the below trips.
Nature / Wildlife Views
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
Cancellation Policy
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
Trips Available with Chum em up charters
Top-Rated
Instant Booking
Fishing - Inshore
20 ft Century Boat20'Century Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)
Charter Fishing Punta Gorda | Private - 4 Hour Solo Trip
Looking to enjoy some quality time on the water without a group? Our 4-hour private solo fishing trip is designed for individuals seeking a relaxing and peaceful experience. Departing at 8:00 AM, this early morning excursion allows you to connect with nature and enjoy calm waters while fishing at your own pace. Whether you want to unwind, focus on fishing, or simply soak in the natural beauty, this trip offers the perfect escape. Ideal for solo anglers wanting a tranquil and personal day on the water. Book your private solo fishing adventure today!
Morning Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
4 Hours
8:00 AMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - Inshore20 ft Century Boat20'Century Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)
Punta Gorda Charter Fishing | Private - 4 Hour Snook Night Trip
Join us for a private 4-hour night fishing excursion starting at 6:00 PM in scenic Charlotte Harbor. Target Snook under the glowing bridge lights, where these sought-after fish gather, creating an incredible opportunity to see them actively take live bait. This peaceful yet engaging nighttime fishing experience combines the calm of the evening with the excitement of catching trophy Snook. Perfect for anglers looking for a unique and rewarding outing on the water. Reserve your exclusive night fishing trip and enjoy unforgettable moments fishing under the stars.
Evening Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
4 Hours6:00 PMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - Inshore20 ft Century Boat20'Century Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)
Charter Fishing Punta Gorda Florida | Private - 4 to 6 Hour Tarpon Trip
Set out on a private 4 to 6-hour tarpon fishing trip beginning at 8:00 AM. Enjoy the excitement of targeting trophy tarpon as they powerfully leap from the water, demonstrating their strength and agility. Using live bait and light tackle, this guided trip offers an engaging fishing experience tailored for anglers aiming to catch one of the most prized game fish. Ideal for those wanting a memorable day on the water with expert support and excellent chances to land a tarpon. Book your private tarpon fishing experience now for a rewarding and immersive outing.
Full Day Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
8 Hours8:00 AMMorning Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
4 Hours8:00 AMMorning Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
6 Hours8:00 AMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - Inshore20 ft Century Boat20'Century Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)
Punta Gorda Fishing Charter | Private - 4 Hour Trip
Join us for a 4-hour Half Day Backbay Fishing Trip in Charlotte Harbor, starting at 8:00 AM. This guided experience offers incredible inshore fishing combined with scenic views and abundant wildlife. Cast your line in some of the area’s most productive fishing spots while keeping an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and native bird species. Perfect for anglers of all skill levels, this trip provides a relaxing and enjoyable way to connect with nature and reel in local fish species. Enjoy a peaceful morning on the water surrounded by Florida’s coastal beauty. Reserve your half day fishing trip today!
Morning Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
4 Hours8:00 AMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - Inshore20 ft Century Boat20'Century Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)
Fishing Charter Punta Gorda | Private - 6 Hour Shark Trip
Set out at 8:00 AM for an exciting 6-hour shark fishing trip that brings you face-to-fin with some of the most powerful fish in the Gulf. This guided adventure is perfect for those who want to experience the raw strength of sharks, ranging from smaller fighters to hard-pulling giants. Every cast offers a new challenge, with unpredictable sizes and species keeping you on your toes. Ideal for anglers who enjoy a strong fight and memorable moments on the water, this trip combines skill, patience, and a touch of wild nature. Join us for a hands-on fishing experience that brings you up close to some of the ocean’s most respected predators.
Morning Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
4 Hours8:00 AMEvening Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
4 Hours7:00 PMMorning Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
6 Hours8:00 AMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - Inshore20 ft Century Boat20'Century Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)
Fishing Charters Punta Gorda FL | Private - 6 Hour Trip
Morning Trip
Maximum 3 persons allowed (base trip price includes 3 guests)
6 Hours8:00 AMPick Your Date
Vehicle
20 ft Century Boat
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
20 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Century
Model Year:
2023
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Yamaha
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
115
Maximum Cruising Speed:
32
Features: Bait Tank Ice-Box Multimedia System Trolling Motor Fish Finder GPS VHF Radio
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This 20-foot center console boat, built by Century in 1998 and restored in 2023, offers a comfortable capacity for up to three persons. Powered by a reliable Yamaha engine with 115HP, it combines performance and agility, making it perfect for unforgettable fishing adventures on the water.
Boat
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20 ft Century Boat
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
20 ft
Vehicle Details
FAQs about Chum em up charters
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What's included in the trip price with Chum em up charters?
What types of Fishing does Chum em up charters offer?
Which Fishing species can I catch with Chum em up charters?
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Reports and Expert Articles
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Punta Gorda Backbay Bonanza: Snook & Tarpon Action in Charlotte Harbor
Hot bite and happy crew! I took Nate and their crew out for a half-day backbay fishing trip in Charlotte Harbor this summer. We launched from Laishley Park Boat Ramp in Punta Gorda, FL on a partly cloudy morning. The weather forecast warned of possible strong storms later, so we got an early start at 8:00 AM to make the most of our time on the water. Chum em up charters always aims to provide a great experience, rain or shine.With our gear rigged and ready, we headed out to explore the inshore waters around Punta Gorda. Our target species for the day were Snook and Tarpon, both popular gamefish in this area. We employed a mix of techniques including live bait fishing, sight casting, and flats fishing to cover our bases. The partly cloudy conditions actually worked in our favor, allowing us to spot fish more easily in the shallows without harsh glare on the water. Our persistence paid off as we managed to hook into some nice fish. Nate's crew landed a 27-inch Snook and a 30 pound Tarpon, both solid catches for a half-day trip. We wrapped up with some great action and everyone left with a smile.If you're looking to experience the fantastic inshore fishing Charlotte Harbor has to offer, I'd love to take you out on a Punta Gorda Fishing Charter. Our half-day backbay trips are perfect for anglers of all skill levels. You'll have the chance to target species like Snook and Tarpon while enjoying the scenic views and abundant wildlife of the area. Summer is a great time to fish these waters, with plenty of action to be had.At Chum em up charters, we specialize in inshore fishing techniques that are effective year-round in the Charlotte Harbor area. Whether you're interested in live bait fishing, sight casting on the flats, or trying other local methods, we've got you covered. Our 4-hour private charters are an excellent way to experience the best of Punta Gorda fishing without taking up your entire day. We provide all the necessary gear and local knowledge to put you on the fish. From the backwaters to the flats, there's always something biting in our diverse ecosystem. So if you're planning a trip to Southwest Florida and want to add some exciting fishing to your itinerary, give us a call. We'll do our best to make your time on the water memorable and productive, just like we did for Nate and their crew. Looking forward to seeing you out here in beautiful Punta Gorda soon!
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Tarpon & Snook Action: Top-Rated Punta Gorda Backbay Fishing Trip
Non-stop bites all day long! Summer fishing in Punta Gorda, FL is always a treat, and this Half Day Backbay Fishing Trip in Charlotte Harbor didn't disappoint. I headed out early morning with Robert and their crew for some inshore action. The weather started off nice, but we knew we'd have to keep an eye on those clouds rolling in later. That's just part of the game with Chum em up charters - we're always ready to adapt. With our gear rigged and ready, we set out to target some of Charlotte Harbor's finest. Our approach was versatile - mixing up live bait fishing, sight fishing, and drift fishing as we worked the backwaters. The harbor was generous, offering up some quality catches. We managed to hook into a couple of beauties - a 26-inch Tarpon that put up a great fight and a respectable 20-inch Snook. Both species really showcase what Punta Gorda fishing is all about. As the afternoon progressed, the sky started to cloud over, but that didn't dampen our spirits or the bite. We wrapped up the trip with smiles all around, even as the first raindrops started to fall. For anglers looking to experience the best of Punta Gorda's inshore fishing, our Half Day Backbay Fishing Trip is hard to beat. Charlotte Harbor is a prime spot for targeting species like Tarpon and Snook, and our 4-hour private charter gives you plenty of time to get in on the action. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport, we've got the know-how to put you on fish. At Chum em up charters, we pride ourselves on delivering a top-notch fishing experience in the beautiful waters of Southwest Florida. Our Punta Gorda Fishing Charter is perfect for those wanting to explore the rich marine life of Charlotte Harbor while enjoying some of the best inshore fishing the area has to offer. We provide all the gear and expertise - you just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a camera to capture your catches. From sight fishing in the shallows to drifting the deeper channels, we'll tailor the trip to the conditions and your preferences. And don't forget, it's not just about the fish - the scenic views and wildlife sightings are an added bonus to your day on the water. So if you're planning a visit to Punta Gorda and want to get in on some fantastic inshore fishing action, give us a call. We'll make sure your time with us is well spent, filled with tight lines and great memories.
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Catch Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, and More During Prime Late Spring Conditions
The inshore waters around Punta Gorda and Charlotte Harbor are offering excellent fishing opportunities as we head into June. Anglers are reporting productive trips with a variety of popular game fish showing strong activity. 🐟 Top Species Biting This Week Tarpon: The tarpon bite is strong, with multiple catches reported. Anglers are seeing success using live bait and light tackle, especially in early morning hours. Snook: Snook are active around mangrove shorelines, docks, and bridge lights. Early morning and late evening are the best times to target them. Redfish: Redfish are feeding near oyster bars, grassy flats, and mangroves. Shrimp-tipped jigs and cut bait have been especially effective. Spotted Sea Trout: Trout are abundant over seagrass beds. Shrimp under popping corks or soft plastics retrieved slowly are producing steady bites. Spanish Mackerel & Cobia: These migratory species are showing up nearshore and around deeper flats, particularly during moving tides. 🌦️ Weather & Fishing Conditions The forecast calls for warm temperatures in the upper 80s°F with chances of afternoon thunderstorms. Morning hours offer the best fishing conditions, with light winds and active fish before the heat and storms build. 🎯 Tips for Success Start Early: Mornings offer cooler temps, less boat traffic, and more feeding activity. Use Live Bait: Pilchards, shrimp, and pinfish are working well for most species. Fish the Tides: Incoming and outgoing tides are triggering feeding patterns in backwaters and around structure. Watch the Weather: Be cautious of afternoon storms and keep an eye on the radar if you’re on the water past midday. Whether you're targeting tarpon, chasing snook through the mangroves, or working the flats for redfish and trout, Punta Gorda’s inshore fishery is delivering great action. Now’s a fantastic time to get out on the water and make the most of the late spring bite.
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Thrilling Inshore Fishing Adventure: Snook, Redfish, and Memories Galore
Today's Fishing Charters Punta Gorda FL | Private - 6 Hour Trip with Chum Em Up Charters was a real treat. Cassie and I had a fantastic day on the water exploring Charlotte Harbor, taking full advantage of the perfect weather and great water conditions. As soon as we launched from the Laishley Park Boat Ramp, I could tell it was going to be a productive day. The waters were calm and clear, ideal for sighting schools of fish and targeting them with our light tackle. We started off working some deeper channels and structure, methodically working our baits through the zone. It didn't take long before Cassie's rod bent over—she was into a feisty Common Snook that put up one heck of a fight. After a tug-of-war, we managed to get that beauty in the boat, admiring its stunning silver and green coloration. Throughout the day, the action just kept getting better. We picked up a few more nice Snook, casting live bait right up tight to the mangroves and docks. The fish were super aggressive, smashing our baits with authority. In between the Snook bites, we also hooked into a couple nice Redfish that peeled off some serious line. The way these fish hit and run is just pure adrenaline—Cassie was whooping and hollering every time her drag started screaming. At the end of the day, we pulled the boat back to the ramp, our cooler full of tasty Snook and Redfish. But as good as the fishing was, the best part was just spending quality time on the water, enjoying the Charlotte Harbor scenery and Cassie's great company. There's nothing like a full day of chasing inshore gamefish to really work up an appetite. I can't wait to get Cassie and her friends back out on the water with us again soon. If you're looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure in Punta Gorda, FL, be sure to book your trip with Chum Em Up Charters. We'll make sure you have a blast reeling in the catch of a lifetime!
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Amazing bite
fishing has been crazy good nothing but bent rods on every trip all my guys have been having a blast dont miss out on your chance at a fish of a life time and book a trip you wont regret it fishing is only getting better
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On fire bite
snook and redfish bite is starting to get on fire with the water warming up take advantage of thd not so hot days and book an exciting trip you wont forget
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Insane fishing
fishing has been on fire especially the snook and tarpon some trips we been seeing guys catch 30 snook plus and tarpon trips catching a few and losing a few but thats the thrill of that sport when they jump out of the water they love to throw the hook
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Punta Gorda Fishing Report
Feel the summer vibes and the excitement of landing your catch! Don’t let the summer fun pass you by! Reach out to us through phone, text, or messenger to book your adventure today. We supply all the necessary equipment, bait, and fuel—just bring your comfortable clothes, snacks, and prepare for a fantastic day on the beautiful blue waters!
Ratings & Reviews Summary
August 15, 2025
Captain Mike worked hard to put us on some fish. Water was cold today, didn’t catch a lot of fish, but we each caught several. Good conversation, enjoyable day!
August 15, 2025
This trip was mainly aimed at my 11 yr old grandson, an avid fisherman, to catch fish. He caught 15+ including trout, snapper, sheepshead and a puffer! He was thrilled.
August 15, 2025
Captain Michael delivered an outstanding trip from start to finish. His high online rating is absolutely deserved. He had everything ready for us—top-quality gear, a fully stocked boat, and plenty of live bait already caught. He knew exactly where to go and how to put us on the fish, sharing expert tips and techniques along the way. His deep knowledge of the area and his clear passion for both fishing and making sure his guests have a great time truly stood out. Unlike many other trips I’ve been on, Captain Michael didn’t fish alongside us—when asked why, he simply said, “I’m here to make sure you catch fish, not for you to watch me do it.” That level of focus and dedication really sets him apart. Any time we got snagged or lost tackle, he was on it immediately, keeping the momentum going. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him, and I’ll absolutely be booking with him again.
August 15, 2025
I had an unforgettable experience, all thanks to Captain Mike—he truly made it all happen. It was my last day in the country, and the weather wasn’t exactly cooperating—chilly and windy, not ideal for fishing. But that didn’t stop Captain Mike. He suggested we start an hour later to let things warm up and planned a route through the Punta Gorda canals that gave us the most protection from the wind. His knowledge of the area was impressive—he seemed to know every bend and pocket, and sure enough, we ended up catching a great mix of fish: sheepshead, mangrove snapper, and even a few catfish. He also had us ready for jacks. Although they only showed up briefly and we didn’t hook one, Mike had the perfect setup ready to go, just in case. His attention to detail and readiness made all the difference. The sheepshead we brought home was absolutely delicious—my family loved it. It was the perfect ending to an amazing day I won’t forget. If you ever get the chance to fish with Captain Mike, take it. He’s friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely wants you to have a great time on the water. Thanks again, Captain Mike—I hope our paths cross again. If I could give you 10 stars, I would!
August 15, 2025
Captain Mike was great! Had bait and rods ready. Caught multiple tarpons,snappers,snooks. Great experience.
August 15, 2025
This was an absolute blast! Captain Mike was very knowledgeable of the area and where the fish are! Caught 60 fish in only four hours! Will definitely book another one with captain Mike.
