5.0(7 Reviews)Nearshore Fishing Charter Tampa Bay for Gag and Goliath Grouper
5.0(7 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Top Rated
Target Gag and Goliath Grouper in Tampa Bay watersAll skill levels welcome with gear and instruction providedChoose private trips or party boats for groups
Tampa Bay's nearshore waters are absolutely loaded with some of Florida's most sought-after gamefish, and this 4 to 8-hour charter with Florida Raised Fishing Adventures puts you right in the middle of the action. Captain Steve knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll have you targeting heavyweight species like Gag Grouper, Goliath Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Kingfish, and Tripletail in some of the most productive fishing grounds on the Gulf Coast. Whether you're a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time, this top-rated charter delivers the kind of hands-on fishing experience that keeps customers coming back season after season.
You'll be fishing Tampa Bay's renowned nearshore structure where the bottom composition changes from sandy flats to rocky ledges and artificial reefs. This diverse underwater terrain creates the perfect habitat for grouper and snapper to set up shop, making every drop a potential trophy fish. Captain Steve runs a well-equipped charter boat that handles Tampa Bay's conditions with ease, giving you a stable platform whether you're bottom fishing for grouper or sight-casting to cruising tripletail. The trip accommodates up to 4 anglers, so you'll have plenty of room to work without feeling crowded. All your tackle, bait, and instruction are included - just bring yourself, some snacks, and get ready to put some serious bends in the rods. The beauty of this charter is the flexibility - shorter 4-hour trips work great for families or beginners, while the 8-hour option gives serious anglers time to explore multiple spots and really dial in on the bigger fish.
Captain Steve sets you up with the right gear for Tampa Bay's nearshore gamefish - we're talking medium to heavy action rods paired with conventional reels loaded with enough line to handle the structure and current. The primary technique here is bottom fishing with heavy sinkers to get your bait down to where the grouper live, usually in 20 to 60 feet of water around limestone ledges, wrecks, and artificial reefs. You'll be using circle hooks with live and cut bait - pinfish, grunts, and sardines are go-to options that grouper and snapper can't resist. For the tripletail action, Captain Steve switches things up with lighter tackle and live shrimp or small crabs, sight-fishing to these curious fish as they hang around floating debris and channel markers. The key to success in these waters is reading the electronics, understanding the tides, and knowing exactly where to position the boat - that's where Captain Steve's local knowledge really pays off. He'll teach you how to feel the difference between a fish bite and getting hung up on the bottom, plus proper fighting techniques to get these hard-pulling fish up from the structure without breaking them off.
"Capt. Steve seemed like a good guy and was very personable. Kept us on fish even under not so great fishing conditions. Would recommend using his charter and will likely do so again when we return to the area." - Henry. "Captain Steven was awesome! Keeps the boat moving until you hit on fish!" - Beth. "I had an excellent experience with Captain Steven Swindal at Florida Raised Fishing Adventures. He was on time, professional, and his communication before and during the trip was solid. What stood out most was the hands-on learning style—exactly what worked best for me. I asked a ton of questions about the fish and seasonal changes, and Steven had all the answers. If you want to learn while you fish, he's the guide for you. I also appreciated the encouragement and the gentle push outside my comfort zone, which made the day even more rewarding. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced fisherman, Captain Steven makes it a memorable trip." - Erin.
Gag Grouper are the bread and butter of Tampa Bay nearshore fishing, and these bruisers average 15 to 25 pounds with plenty of 30-pounders mixed in during peak season from October through March. They're aggressive feeders that hit live bait hard and make powerful runs back toward the bottom structure where they live. What makes gags so exciting is their fighting ability - they'll test your drag and your technique as they try to cut your line on the rocks below. The meat is phenomenal too, with firm white fillets that make some of the best table fare in the Gulf.
Goliath Grouper are the true giants of Tampa Bay, and encountering one of these monsters is a world-class angling experience you won't forget. These prehistoric-looking fish can weigh several hundred pounds, and while they're catch-and-release only, the battle is absolutely epic. They're most active during summer months around wrecks and large structure in 30 to 80 feet of water. When a goliath eats your bait, you'll know immediately - it feels like you're connected to a freight train. Captain Steve knows the specific spots where these giants hang out and has the heavy tackle needed to battle them safely.
Mangrove Snapper, locally called "mangoes," are plentiful year-round but really turn on during warmer months when they move to nearshore structure in large schools. These 2 to 8-pound fish are incredibly smart and line-shy, making them a fun challenge on lighter tackle. They're also customer favorites because they're delicious eating and perfect for anglers wanting consistent action throughout the day.
King Mackerel show up in big numbers during spring and fall migrations, providing fast-paced action when they're feeding aggressively in 40 to 100 feet of water. These speed demons average 15 to 30 pounds and are known for their blistering runs and aerial displays. Captain Steve targets them with live bait on the drift or slow trolling along the
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag grouper are Tampa Bay's bread and butter bottom fish, averaging 20 inches but capable of reaching 50+ inches and 80 pounds. They're ambush predators that love structure - think reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottom in 40-150 feet of water. What sets them apart is their tough fight; once hooked, they'll bolt straight for the nearest hole or ledge trying to break you off. That's why you need heavy tackle and a locked drag - no freewheeling or they're gone. They're most active during cooler months when they move into shallower water. Guests love them because they're both challenging to land and excellent eating with firm white meat. The females are lighter gray with wavy patterns, while males are darker with black bellies. Here's the trick: once you hook one, keep your rod tip low and horse them up immediately. Give them an inch and they'll find structure to cut you off every time.
Epinephelus ItajaraGoliath grouper are the giants of Tampa Bay - these monsters can reach 8 feet and 800 pounds, making them a bucket list fish for serious anglers. They hang around shallow reefs, wrecks, and structure in 20-150 feet, often in the same spots year after year. Remember, these fish are protected, so it's strictly catch and release. What makes them special is that first pull - it'll nearly yank you overboard if you're not braced. They put up a brutal but short fight before sulking on the bottom. Peak season is late summer when they gather to spawn. Guests love the adrenaline rush and the photos with these prehistoric-looking fish. You'll need serious gear - 80-class reels, 400-600 pound mono, and 20/0 circle hooks. The secret is anchoring close enough to get their attention but far enough to pull them away from structure. Bounce your bait - big crabs or whole fish - right on the bottom to create commotion. They're not shy.
Lutjanus GriseusGrey snapper, also called mangrove snapper, are some of the smartest fish in Tampa Bay. These copper-red beauties typically run 1-3 pounds inshore, though they can hit 20 pounds in deeper water. They're opportunistic night feeders that love structure - docks, piers, mangroves, and rocky bottom where they can ambush prey. The key word with these fish is patience. They're extremely cautious and will inspect your bait thoroughly before committing. Year-round fishing is good, but they're most active during warmer months and around full moons when they spawn. What makes them popular is their excellent table fare - white, flaky meat that's hard to beat. My go-to technique is live shrimp hooked through the tail on a 4J hook. Let it sink to the bottom, then lift it just off the structure. No fancy movements - just let it sit there naturally. When you feel that tap, don't jerk. Let them take it and run before setting the hook.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing mackerel are Tampa Bay's speed demons, averaging 30 pounds but capable of hitting 90. These silver bullets are pure adrenaline - when one hits your bait at 40+ mph, you'll know it instantly. They roam open water from 40-150 feet, following baitfish and temperature breaks. Spring and fall are prime time when they migrate through our area chasing schools of sardines and blue runners. What makes them special is their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps - they're like underwater missiles. Plus they're excellent eating when prepared fresh. The challenge is their razor-sharp teeth that can slice through most line. I always use wire leaders with two hooks - one in the bait's nose, another trailing behind since kings love to bite the tail section. Slow-trolling live bait or pulling spoons at 6-8 knots works best. When you hook up, hold on tight and let them make their initial run. Try to stop them too early and you'll just pull the hooks.
Lobotes SurinamensisTripletail are one of Tampa Bay's most unique catches. These oddball fish get their name from the three rounded fins at their rear that look like they have three tails. Most run 2-13 pounds, though they can hit 40. They're famous for floating on their sides near the surface, mimicking debris or weeds - it's actually a defense trick. You'll spot them around weed lines, crab trap buoys, and floating structure from spring through fall when water temps stay above 70°F. What makes them special is their acrobatic fight despite that chunky body, plus they taste fantastic - similar to snapper or grouper. The key is being stealthy when you see one. Cast well past them and work your bait back slowly. They spook easy, but once hooked, get ready for some serious aerobics. Live shrimp and small crabs work best. Just watch those razor-sharp gills when handling them.
5.0 out of 5.0Capt. Steve seemed like a good guy and was very personable. Kept us on fish even under not so great fishing conditions. Would reco...
Captain Steven was awesome! Keeps the boat moving until you hit on fish!
If you wanna catch them game fish an have an awesome time doing it, I highly recommend Capt Steven‼️
Had a great time. Great Captain!
This was the best day EVER. We had a blast and can’t wait to go again AND AGAIN. Captain Steve was so cool and made this trip wha...
I had an excellent experience with Captain Steven Swindal at Florida Raised Fishing Adventures. He was on time, professional, and ...
Erin Murphy, Thank you for the great review! You were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Tampa, FL