Tampa Bay 6-Hour Inshore Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target tarpon, snook, trout, and redfish inshore for six hoursAccommodates up to three guests with professional captain guidanceIncludes fish cleaning instruction and speciesspecific targeting techniques
When you step aboard with Keep On Reeling Fishing Charters, you're signing up for serious fishing action in one of Florida's most productive inshore waters. Tampa Bay serves up a menu of hard-fighting fish that'll keep your rod bent and your adrenaline pumping for six solid hours. Captain's got the local knowledge to put you on fish, whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who's been chasing tail fins for decades. Plus, you'll walk away knowing how to properly clean your catch and target specific species like a pro.
This isn't your typical tourist fishing trip where you sit around hoping something bites. Tampa Bay's inshore waters are alive with action, and our captain knows every flat, channel, and structure where the fish hang out. You'll be actively hunting Tarpon, Snook, Trout, and Redfish in their prime habitat. The shallow waters and grass flats create perfect ambush points for these predators, and you'll learn to read the water like the locals do. Expect to move around frequently as we follow the bite - that's how you maximize your hookups in six hours. Small group size of just three anglers means everyone gets plenty of rod time and personal attention from the captain.
Inshore fishing in Tampa Bay requires finesse and local know-how. We'll be working the grass flats with live bait, throwing artificials around structure, and sight fishing when conditions are right. The captain will have you rigged up with the right tackle for each species - lighter spinning gear for Trout and Redfish, heavier setups when we're targeting those silver kings. You'll learn proper bait presentation, how to work a soft plastic, and the art of setting the hook on different species. Live shrimp, pinfish, and pilchards are bread and butter baits here, but don't be surprised if we break out some topwater plugs when the fish are feeding aggressively on the surface.
Bluefish are absolute bulldogs that'll give you a workout on light tackle. These aggressive predators travel in schools and when you find them, it's game on. They hit hard and fight dirty with powerful runs and headshakes. Tampa Bay Bluefish typically run 3 to 8 pounds and are most active during cooler months. What makes them exciting is their willingness to hit just about any bait or lure you throw at them, making them perfect for anglers who want consistent action.
Black Sea Bass might not be the flashiest fish in the bay, but they're steady producers that know how to use structure to their advantage. These bottom dwellers love rocky areas and wrecks, and they'll test your drag with short, powerful runs toward cover. Most Tampa Bay Black Sea Bass range from 1 to 4 pounds, with occasional larger specimens showing up near deeper structure. They're excellent table fare and a favorite target when other species are being finicky.
Goliath Grouper encounters are what fishing dreams are made of. These massive fish can exceed 300 pounds and will absolutely humble your tackle. While catch and release only, hooking into one of these giants is a bucket list experience that'll have you questioning your gear choices. They're ambush predators that lurk around structure, and when one decides to eat your bait, you'll know it immediately. Peak season runs through summer and early fall when they gather around specific spawning sites.
King Mackerel bring speed and acrobatics to your fishing day. These silver bullets can hit 40 mph and aren't shy about showing off with spectacular jumps when hooked. Tampa Bay Kings typically range from 15 to 30 pounds, with larger fish showing up during peak migration periods. They're most active around baitfish schools and structure in deeper water. What makes them special is their willingness to absolutely destroy trolled baits and their reputation as one of the best eating fish in these waters.
Cobia are the unexpected bonus fish that can make your entire trip. These curious, shark-looking fish often approach the boat and will eat a well-presented bait or lure. They're strong fighters that use their broad tails and powerful bodies to test your equipment. Tampa Bay Cobia can range from 20 to 50 pounds, with peak season running from March through May. They're known for following rays and sharks, so keep your eyes peeled when you see other marine life moving through the area.
Six hours on Tampa Bay's inshore waters with Keep On Reeling Fishing Charters gives you the perfect mix of action, education, and memories. You'll not only catch fish but learn techniques and local knowledge that'll make you a better angler for life. The small group size ensures quality time with the captain, and the hands-on fish cleaning instruction means you'll actually know what to do with your catch. Tampa Bay's year-round fishery means there's never a bad time to get out there, but prime dates fill up fast with returning customers who know the quality of this operation. Don't wait around hoping for a last-minute opening - book your trip now and get ready for some serious inshore fishing action.
Ready to target Tampa Bay's hottest inshore species? This fully-equipped motorboat gets you right where the fish are biting. With a wireless trolling motor for stealthy approaches and a fish finder to locate schools, you'll be casting at Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, and Speckled Trout in their prime feeding spots. The onboard GPS keeps you on productive waters while the ice box preserves your catch. Perfect for up to 3 anglers who want to learn proper techniques for different species. Your captain knows these flats like the back of their hand and will show you how to clean your fish too. Six hours of serious fishing in one of Florida's best inshore fisheries.
Centropristis StriataBlack sea bass are chunky, aggressive bottom dwellers that love structure. Most run 1-4 pounds, but the occasional 8-pounder keeps things interesting. These gray-to-black fish hang around wrecks, reefs, and rocky bottom in 20-120 feet of water. Spring through summer is prime time when they move inshore to spawn. They're scrappy fighters that dive straight for cover once hooked. The white, flaky meat is some of the best eating you'll find. Males turn bright blue during spawning and develop a distinctive hump on their heads. My go-to technique is dropping squid or cut bait on a double-hook rig right to the bottom, then lifting it just off the structure to avoid snags.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBluefish are aggressive fighters that show up in Tampa Bay waters during their seasonal migrations. These silvery predators typically run 3-10 pounds, though bigger ones push 20+. They're voracious feeders with razor-sharp teeth, so handle with care. You'll find them chasing baitfish in open water and around structure during warmer months. They hit hard and fight dirty, making multiple runs before giving up. The meat is excellent when fresh, especially smaller fish. Best fishing is during their feeding frenzies when they're slashing through bait schools. Pro tip: use a wire leader and keep your fingers away from their mouth - those teeth will slice right through mono and skin alike.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are curious, powerful fish that often get mistaken for sharks due to their brown coloring and single dorsal fin. These bruisers average 20-50 pounds and can push 100+. They're loners that cruise shallow water around buoys, wrecks, and structure, usually in 30 feet or less. Spring and early summer are prime when they move inshore to spawn. Cobia fight like freight trains - strong, steady pulls that'll wear you down. The white meat is firm and excellent eating, comparable to shark. They're naturally curious and will often approach the boat to investigate. Sight fishing is the most exciting way to target them - look for that dark shadow cruising just under the surface, then pitch a bucktail jig or live crab their way.
Epinephelus ItajaraGoliath grouper are the giants of the Gulf - these massive fish can reach 400+ pounds and live over 50 years. They lurk around wrecks, reefs, and structure in shallow to mid-depth waters, often in less than 150 feet. These fish are pure muscle and will test every piece of tackle you own. The initial run is legendary - they'll try to drag you straight into the structure. We practice strict catch and release since they're protected, but the fight alone makes them worth targeting. They're curious fish that will often investigate divers and boats. When targeting them, use heavy tackle with 50-80 class reels and bounce big baits like jacks or rays right on the bottom near structure.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing mackerel are speed demons that'll strip line like few other fish. These silver bullets typically run 10-30 pounds but can hit 50+ when conditions are right. They cruise open water from 40-150 feet, often following temperature breaks and bait schools. Peak season runs spring through fall when water temps hit that sweet 68-84 degree range. Kings are built for speed - their first run will test your drag and your nerves. The meat is rich and oily, perfect for smoking or grilling. They have razor teeth, so wire leaders are essential. Best technique is slow-trolling live baits or spoons, but make sure to rig with two hooks since they love to bite the tail end of your bait first.
Tampa, FL