Tampa Shark & Tarpon Fishing Charters
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Specialist shark and tarpon fishing in Tampa Bay watersExpert Captain Patrick guides anglers to prime fishing groundsSmall group inshore charters accommodating up to two guests
When you're ready to test your skills against some of Florida's most powerful gamefish, Captain Patrick's specialty trips in Tampa Bay deliver the real deal. These aren't your typical inshore redfish runs – we're talking about targeting apex predators and silver kings that'll make your drag scream and test every ounce of your fishing knowledge. With just two spots available per trip, you get personalized attention and prime positioning when the action heats up. The Tampa and St. Petersburg waters hold some serious fish, and Patrick knows exactly where to find them when conditions line up right.
Captain Patrick's been working these waters long enough to read them like a book, and that experience shows when you're chasing sharks and tarpon. These specialty trips focus on structure fishing around bridges, channels, and nearshore reefs where the big boys hang out. You'll start early to beat the boat traffic and position yourself in prime spots before the fish get spooked. The approach changes based on what we're targeting – shark fishing means heavy tackle, circle hooks, and patience, while tarpon fishing requires finesse with live bait and split-second timing on the hookset. Patrick provides all the specialized gear you'll need, from wire leaders to heavy spinning reels that can handle these bruisers. The intimate two-angler setup means you won't be fighting for rod time or missing opportunities because someone else is tangled up.
Shark fishing in Tampa Bay requires a completely different mindset than your average inshore trip. We're talking heavy spinning gear with 80-pound braid, wire leaders, and circle hooks that won't straighten out when a bull shark decides to make a run. Patrick sets up a drift pattern over known feeding areas, using fresh cut bait like jack crevalle, ladyfish, or mullet to draw them in. The key is patience – sharks hunt by scent, so once that chum slick gets working, things can get wild fast. For tarpon, it's all about live bait presentation and timing. We'll net up threadfin herring or pilchards and fish them on lighter tackle around bridges and passes where tarpon stage up. The hookset on a tarpon is critical – too early and you pull the bait away, too late and they spit it out. Patrick's got the experience to coach you through that moment when a hundred-pound silver king rolls up on your bait.
Scalloped hammerheads are the crown jewel of Tampa Bay shark fishing, and these prehistoric hunters put on a show like nothing else. Most scalloped hammers we hook range from 4 to 8 feet, with the occasional monster pushing double digits. They're most active during warmer months from May through September, when baitfish schools draw them into the bay system. What makes hammers so exciting is their fight – they'll jump, spin, and make powerful runs that test your drag system to the limit. Their unique head shape gives them incredible maneuverability, so be ready for sudden direction changes that'll challenge your rod handling skills.
Bull sharks are the pit bulls of the shark world, and Tampa Bay's brackish water mixing zones are perfect bull shark habitat. These thick-bodied bruisers average 6 to 8 feet but pack incredible power in their stocky frames. Bulls are year-round residents but fish best from April through October when water temps stay above 70 degrees. They're ambush predators that hit hard and fight dirty, using their broad tail to generate serious torque. What gets anglers fired up about bulls is their unpredictability – they might sulk on the bottom for ten minutes, then suddenly explode into a series of powerful runs that'll have you questioning your knots.
Tarpon fishing in Tampa Bay is legendary for good reason – these silver kings average 80 to 150 pounds and put on aerial displays that'll leave you speechless. Peak season runs from April through July, with the best action happening during incoming tides around dawn and dusk. Tarpon are famous for their jumping ability, often clearing the water completely multiple times during a fight. They're also notorious for throwing hooks, which is why the fight strategy involves keeping steady pressure while giving them room to jump. Landing a tarpon requires teamwork between angler and captain, plus a good dose of luck when that fish decides to go airborne next to the boat.
Captain Patrick's specialty shark and tarpon trips book up fast, especially during prime season when conditions align perfectly. With only two spots per trip, you're guaranteed personalized attention and maximum fishing time without crowds. These trips aren't for beginners looking for a casual day out – they're designed for serious anglers who want to target some of Florida's most challenging gamefish. Whether you're chasing your first hammerhead or trying to land that triple-digit tarpon, Patrick's local knowledge and specialized approach give you the best shot at making it happen. The Tampa Bay area offers world-class fishing for these species, and there's no substitute for having an experienced captain who knows where to find them when they're feeding.
Get ready to chase sharks and tarpon aboard our 2022 C-Hawk bay boat, custom-rigged for serious fishing in Tampa Bay waters. This beauty runs on a brand-new 300hp Yamaha that'll get you to the hotspots fast and quiet. Captain Patrick has this boat dialed in with top-shelf Simrad electronics – we're talking crystal-clear fish finders that'll show you exactly what's swimming below and GPS that knows every productive reef, channel, and flat in the area. The VHF keeps us connected to other boats and weather updates, while the built-in icebox handles your drinks and any fish you want to keep fresh. Built for two anglers max, so you'll have plenty of room to fight those big tarpon without getting tangled up. This setup is perfect for working the inshore waters where these giants feed.
Carcharhinus LeucasBull sharks are the bulldogs of the shark world - thick, aggressive, and built for power. Most run 6-10 feet and 200-300 pounds in our area. They're unique because they can handle both salt and freshwater, so you'll find them in Tampa Bay, river mouths, and even up in brackish creeks during summer months. They prefer shallow water from 5-50 feet around structure. Best fishing happens June through October when water's warm. Anglers love them because they fight hard and aren't picky eaters - they'll hit just about anything. Fresh cut bait works great, but my secret weapon is freshwater eel. Its oily scent drives them crazy, and the tough skin stays on the hook better than most baits when smaller fish are around.
Sphyrna LewiniThese distinctive sharks with their iconic hammer-shaped heads are one of the most recognizable species in our waters. Females can reach up to 8 feet and 180 pounds, while males stay smaller around 6 feet. You'll find them in depths from 20 to 200 feet around structure and drop-offs. They're most active during summer months when water temps climb. What makes them special is that unique head design - it gives them incredible sensory abilities to hunt stingrays and small fish. They're known to be pretty shy, so patience pays off. My go-to trick is using fresh cut bait near sandy bottoms at dawn or dusk when they're actively feeding. Note: These sharks are protected, so it's strictly catch and release only.
Megalops AtlanticusThe "silver king" is what every angler dreams about - these massive fish can reach 6-8 feet and weigh up to 200 pounds in our local waters. They love shallow bays, channels, and around bridge structures in 10-30 feet of water. Peak season runs May through September when they migrate through Tampa Bay. What gets people hooked is their aerial show - they'll jump 10 feet out of the water when hooked, making for some wild fights. We mainly catch and release since they're bony and tough to eat. They feed on mullet, pinfish, and crabs. Best tip I can share: use live bait and keep your rod tip low when they jump - bow to the fish or they'll throw the hook every time. The fight alone is worth the trip.
Saint Petersburg, FL