Next AvailableJul 01
Book with Richard Delgado
Tops Charters
Identity Verified Crystal River FL
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Richard Delgado, Captain at Tops Charters
Identity VerifiedIf you’re searching for a Crystal River fishing guide service that keeps things simple, productive, and fun for all ages, Tops Charters delivers just that. Based in one of Florida’s top fishing destinations, Captain Richard runs trips that cover both freshwater and saltwater options, giving anglers plenty of variety in one beautiful place. Whether you're after bass in Lake Henderson, chasing inshore favorites like Redfish and Speckled Trout, or looking forward to the scalloping season, this charter makes it easy to enjoy every moment on the water.
Captain Richard operates a 20’ Express center console designed for small groups of up to three passengers. It's a great fit for families, couples, or solo anglers who prefer a more relaxed, one-on-one fishing experience. The boat comes equipped with everything needed for the day—rods, reels, tackle, lures, and live bait are included at no extra charge. No fishing license is required either, so guests can focus on fishing, not paperwork.
Crystal River is known for its mix of freshwater and saltwater habitats, and this charter lets you explore both. Target Largemouth Bass in the calm waters of Lake Henderson or try your luck with Sheepshead, Snook, or Redfish in the inshore channels. The nearby Rainbow River also offers opportunities for light tackle and sightseeing, making it ideal for beginners and families. During the summer months, Tops Charters also offers scalloping tours, giving guests the chance to collect fresh bay scallops in shallow water. All necessary gear for scalloping is provided—just bring your swimwear and a good pair of fins.
Families are welcome on board, and kids are encouraged to join. Just check ahead to confirm life jacket sizes. Bottled water is included, and you’re welcome to bring extra drinks or snacks—just avoid glass containers. Moderate alcohol is fine, though hard liquor is not permitted.
Whether you're interested in guided bass fishing trips in Lake Henderson, scalloping near Crystal River, or a half-day saltwater outing, Tops Charters is ready to show you a good time on the water. Every trip is adjusted to match your experience level and interests. Captain Richard’s focus is on making sure everyone enjoys their day—from learning the basics to landing a memorable catch.
For the best of both worlds—freshwater and saltwater fishing—book with Tops Charters and discover what makes Crystal River such a great place to fish.
Upcoming Availability
Expertise & Attributes
fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Good with Families
Good with Kids
Good with New AnglersFishing Techniques
What's Included
Keep your Catch
This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.
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
Keep your Catch
This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.
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 Tops Charters
Fishing
Starting At $375
Rainbow River Bass Fishing – Half Day
Fishing Area: Crystal River
Fishing: River
Fishing Boat:
Tops Charters • 20' Express • Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)Description:
Fishing
Starting At $500
Crystal River Inshore Fishing – Half Day
Fishing Area: Crystal River
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Tops Charters • 20' Express • Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)Description:
This 5-hour inshore saltwater trip is perfect for targeting species like Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Snook, and Black Drum. Designed for small groups of up to 3 guests, it’s a hands-on experience with guidance from your captain. All rods, reels, tackle, and bait are provided, making it easy for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Start and end times may shift based on weather, tides, and conditions to ensure safety and maximize your chances of success. The calm inshore waters offer a smooth ride and a great opportunity to fish close to shore.
Fishing
Starting At $600
Scalloping and Fishing
Fishing Area: Crystal River
Fishing: Inshore
Capacity:
Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)Description:
Enjoy the day on the water on the nature coast scalloping and fishing.
Fishing
Starting At $375
Lake Henderson Bass Fishing – Half Day
Fishing Area: Crystal River
Fishing: Lake
Fishing Boat:
Tops Charters • 20' Express • Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)Description:
large mouth bass fishing on hernderson lake.
Fishing
Starting At $400
Crystal River Scalloping – Half Day
Fishing Area: Crystal River
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Tops Charters • 20' Express • Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)Description:
Vehicle
Tops Charters
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
20 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Express
Model Year:
2020
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Yamaha
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
115
Maximum Cruising Speed:
35
Features: Bait Tank Snorkelling Equipment Toilet Ice-Box Trolling Motor Fish Finder GPS
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Captain Richard runs a 20’ Express center console, ideal for up to 3 guests. It’s fully equipped with rods, reels, tackle, and live bait. The boat features a trolling motor for shallow waters, a cooler with bottled water, and all the gear needed for a smooth day on Crystal River.
Boat
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Tops Charters
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
20 ft
Vehicle Details
FAQs about Tops Charters
What are the trip rates for Tops Charters?
What's included in the trip price with Tops Charters?
What types of Fishing does Tops Charters offer?
Which Fishing species can I catch with Tops Charters?
What is the cancellation policy for Tops Charters?
Reports and Expert Articles
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Specks, Reds, and a Shark—Full Bag and Good Company on the Water
Had Tom on the boat for a second time, and this time he brought his friend Chuck. We start off with three solid speckled trouts then a bunch of sand trouts, a few gag groupers, landed one shark, a bunch of grunts, 5 reds and a couple of Jacks, all all a phenomenal day on the water with two great people and they went home with a nice bag of fish for dinner. A few opening this week and next, plus we have scallop sason right around the corner. Let me know if you guys want to get some time on the water.
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Quick Limit in the Big Bend—Crystal River Trips Booking Now
Took a group out up in the big bend area since they open early and we hit our limit in less than an hour. Hit me up if you want to get out in Crystal River area next month when our season opens.
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Reds, Trout, and Sharks—Back on the Water with a Bang
Been off the water for a little due to a nice family trip up north but today was a great day to be on the water. Had Todd on the boat and right off the bat he hooked into two nice reds. After the red bite cooled off we went a few miles out and had a blast. Boated over a dozen sand and spotted trout, a few grunts, and two baby sharks. However, the real fun was when we did hook onto a very nice 4’ shark, though it only gave us a few minutes of play time before it broke off. All and all, Todd had a great time and he should have some nice fish tacos tonight. Open most of this week and next week if anyone wants to get some time doing what our beautiful state has to offer.
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Final Push Lands Cobia and Gags, Team Finishes Strong in the Rankings
Sorry for the delay in posting after the close out of the tournement. On Sunday we did land two more Cobia, a bunch of gags and three absolute mangrove snapper slabs (so no pics, camera man is slacking on getting me photos). One of the two Cobia’s that we landed did put us in 2nd place around 2:45 when got in, but just ten minutes before 4:00, we had gotten bumped to 4th. I had to leave early so didn’t see the final tally. See you all out there, tight lines…. Team: Mark Nenadic (team captain) Austin Ellis Robbie Ellis Richard Delgado
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Rough Waters, Solid Catch: 5 Cobia & a Deck Full of Gags
For those who were out today in the tournement know the water was rough most of the day. However the team I am with did land 5 Cobia and close to 20 nice gags. We hope to have better luck tomorrow. Here’s just a small glimps of what was caught today. Tight lines… Austin Ellis Mark Nenadic team captian Robbie Ellis Richard Delgado John Bohannon
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Steady Trout Action with Mike, Alex & Corey – Open Dates Next Week! 4o
Had Mike, Alex, and Corey out today and we had a great time. No super big fish today, but we did hit both of the fish we targeted. Trout were hitting in the 5-7 foot range on popper cork with shrimp and slam shadies. Next week is wide open if anyone wants to get some time on the water.
Ratings & Reviews Summary
July 1, 2025
Visited the Crystal River area recently. Went out on a fishing trip with Richard. It was a great day on the water. Caught a bunch of fish. Saw some dolphins which was the coolest for me and one alligator. I’m not the best fisher. He was patient and kind. Perfect for any skill level. Great conversation. Highly recommend. Will book with again when back in the area.
July 1, 2025
Had a great time and awesome captain
July 1, 2025
Very clean boat, very knowledgeable captain, best fishing trip in my life. Highly recommend
July 1, 2025
I can not say enough good things about Tops Charters and Captain Richard! So knowledgeable, professional and personable! If you are still trying to decide, You will not be disappointed!! They are fantastic!
July 1, 2025
A very knowledgeable and prepared Captain. We caught alot of fish that day. He knew the water and fished alot of tournaments in the area. Captain Richard lived up to the hype. I already booked another trip.
July 1, 2025
Need some sun, fun, laughs, and tight lines....look no further than Tops Charters. Exceptional experience and 'TOP' guidance.
