Shark Fishing Charters in Clearwater, FL
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target sharks using standup tackle in Clearwater watersSmall group experience with maximum 2 guests per tripInshore fishing adventure along Florida's intercoastal waterways
Get ready to test your skills against some of Florida's most powerful predators with Reel Passion Charters' shark fishing trip in Clearwater. This isn't your typical day on the water – we're talking about going toe-to-toe with apex predators using stand-up tackle that'll make your arms burn and your heart race. With a maximum of 2 anglers per trip, you get the personalized attention and prime fishing spots that make all the difference when you're hunting sharks along Florida's Gulf Coast.
This top-rated shark fishing adventure takes you into the productive waters around Clearwater where the Gulf meets the intercoastal waterway. During spring and summer months, you'll experience some serious action as we target feeding zones where sharks patrol for their next meal. The beauty of fishing this area is the variety – one minute you might be battling a bull shark in deeper water, the next you could be sight-fishing for bonnetheads in the shallows. Our experienced guides know exactly where to find these fish based on tides, bait movement, and seasonal patterns. You'll spend your day learning to read the water, understanding shark behavior, and mastering the art of fighting big fish on lighter tackle than most people think possible.
We specialize in stand-up shark fishing, which means you're fighting these beasts while standing at the rail with a fighting belt and harness. It's a world-class workout that puts you directly in control of the fight. We use heavy spinning reels spooled with braided line and circle hooks to ensure safe releases. Our bait selection includes fresh mullet, ladyfish, and whatever's running that day – sharks have incredible noses and can smell a fresh bait from miles away. The technique involves deploying baits at various depths and distances from the boat, creating a scent trail that draws sharks into our fishing zone. When a shark picks up your bait, you'll feel that distinctive weight and power that separates these apex predators from any other fish you've hooked. We fish both anchor and drift depending on conditions, always positioning ourselves where the action is hottest.
Bonnethead sharks are customer favorites for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. These smaller sharks, typically running 2-4 feet, are perfect for getting your shark fishing legs under you. They're most active during warmer months and love shallow grass flats where they hunt for crabs and small fish. What makes bonnetheads special is their hammer-shaped head and their willingness to eat just about any bait you put in front of them. They fight hard for their size and are great for photos before release.
Blacktip sharks bring the aerial show that gets every angler's adrenaline pumping. These 3-6 foot sharks are known for their spectacular jumps when hooked, often clearing the water completely in their attempts to throw the hook. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall when they move into nearshore waters to feed on schools of baitfish. Blacktips are fast, strong, and absolutely beautiful with their distinctive black-tipped fins. Landing one on stand-up tackle is a bucket-list experience that tests your endurance and technique.
Tiger sharks represent the holy grail of Clearwater shark fishing. These massive predators can exceed 10 feet and pack the kind of power that makes grown anglers weak in the knees. Tigers are opportunistic feeders that show up year-round but peak during summer months when water temperatures climb. What sets tigers apart is their incredible strength and stubborn fighting style – they don't give up easily and will test every knot and connection on your tackle. The distinctive stripes and massive girth make them instantly recognizable and absolutely stunning to see up close.
Lemon sharks are the bulldozers of the shark world, using their broad heads and powerful bodies to overpower prey in shallow water. These golden-colored sharks typically run 4-8 feet in our area and are most active during dawn and dusk periods. Lemons prefer sandy bottoms and grass flats where they can ambush unsuspecting fish. They're known for their stamina and ability to make long, powerful runs that'll have you questioning your tackle choices. Their unique coloration and prehistoric appearance make them a photographer's dream.
Bull sharks earn their reputation as one of the most powerful fish in Florida waters. These thick-bodied predators can handle both salt and fresh water, often moving far up rivers and into brackish areas. Bulls typically range from 4-8 feet in our fishing grounds and are renowned for their incredible bite force and aggressive nature. They're active year-round but peak during warmer months when they move into shallower water to feed. Fighting a bull shark on stand-up tackle is like being hooked to a freight train – they use their broad bodies and powerful tails to make blistering runs that'll test your drag system to its limits.
This shark fishing charter offers the perfect blend of education, excitement, and pure fishing adrenaline that keeps anglers coming back season after season. With only 2 spots available per trip, you're guaranteed personalized instruction and prime positioning for every hookup. Whether you're a seasoned shark angler or ready to cross these apex predators off your fishing bucket list, this Clearwater adventure delivers the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Don't wait – the best shark fishing windows fill up fast, especially during peak spring and summer seasons when these magnificent predators are most active.
Step aboard the 25' Privateer and get ready to hunt for sharks in Clearwater's productive waters. This restored 1989 bay boat combines classic fishing boat reliability with modern upgrades that serious anglers appreciate. The 250HP Suzuki pushes you to the hotspots at 35 knots, while the fish finder helps locate the structure and baitfish that draw in sharks. When you hook up on stand-up tackle, you'll have plenty of room to battle these powerful fish with up to 4 other anglers cheering you on. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over productive areas, and the icebox keeps your drinks cold during those patient moments between bites. With GPS navigation, you'll efficiently cover ground along the intercoastal and beyond to find where the sharks are feeding. Whether you're targeting smaller species or waiting for that bucket-list bite, this boat puts you in prime position to connect with some of Florida's most sought-after gamefish.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are the acrobats of the shark world, known for their spectacular jumps when hooked. These streamlined sharks average 4-6 feet but can reach up to 9 feet, and you'll spot them by the distinctive black-tipped fins. They patrol our nearshore waters, typically in 30-100 feet over sandy bottoms and around structure. Spring through fall brings the best action as they follow baitfish migrations. What guests love is their aggressive strikes and aerial displays - they'll jump repeatedly trying to throw the hook. The bite can be explosive on cut mackerel or fresh sardines. My go-to trick is using oily baits like herring chunks and getting a good chum slick going to bring them up from deeper water to the boat.
Sphyrna TiburoBonnetheads are the smallest hammerheads you'll encounter, typically running 3-4 feet and recognized by their shovel-shaped heads. These shy sharks travel in schools of 10-15 around shallow bays and grass flats, making them perfect for lighter tackle fishing. They're most active during warmer months when they move into our inshore waters to feed on crabs and small fish. What makes them fun to target is their scrappy fight on 20-pound gear - they'll give you a solid battle despite their size. The key to hooking one consistently is using fresh blue crab cut in half with the hook through a leg. This natural presentation in 4-8 feet of water over grass beds is money for bonnetheads.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the bulldozers of the shark world - thick, powerful, and absolutely relentless when hooked. These gray sharks typically run 8-10 feet and can handle both salt and freshwater, often found in rivers and back bays. They patrol shallow coastal waters year-round but are most active in warmer months. The fight is pure strength - no fancy jumps, just raw power that'll wear you out fast. What sets them apart is their aggressive nature and ability to show up anywhere from deep channels to surprisingly shallow water. Fresh eel is hands down the best bait for bulls - the oil content drives them crazy and the tough skin stays on the hook. Fish it on the bottom near structure or drop-offs where they ambush prey.
Negaprion BrevirostrisLemons are beautiful golden-colored sharks that average 6-8 feet, with some reaching 10+ feet. They're found in shallow coastal waters, particularly around mangrove areas and sandy flats in 10-30 feet of water. These sharks are most active during warmer months and are known for their curious nature around boats. What makes them exciting to target is their strong, determined fight and their willingness to take both live and cut baits. They feed heavily on rays, crabs, and smaller fish in the shallows. The trick with lemons is fishing near structure like docks, bridges, or mangrove edges using fresh stingray or jack as bait. They're also one of the better eating sharks if you're looking to keep a legal-sized fish for the table.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the apex predators that serious shark anglers dream about. These massive sharks can reach 14+ feet and over 1,000 pounds, with distinctive dark stripes that fade with age. They cruise deeper waters around 100+ feet but move shallow to hunt, especially at dawn and dusk. Summer months bring them closer to our coast following warm water currents. The fight is absolutely legendary - pure power that'll test your tackle and endurance. Their unique tooth shape and feeding habits make them willing to take almost any bait. For the best shot at a tiger, fish large chunks of tuna or mackerel on heavy tackle with 100+ pound test. Position your baits at different depths since they're opportunistic feeders that patrol the entire water column.
Clearwater