How much does a fishing charter cost in Tampa?

$580 is the average price for the most popular 4-hour inshore trip for two people. Fishing charters in Tampa typically range from $400–$800 for a half day (4 hours) and $800–$1,500 for a full day (8 hours). Prices are usually per boat, with a base rate for two anglers and an added fee for each additional guest. Charters are worth it for the local expertise, quality equipment, and best chance of catching fish.

What are the best months for fishing in Tampa?

The best fishing in Tampa is March–June and September–November ; fishing continues year-round, but July–August heat and summer rains (June–September) can slow things down.

How much should you tip for a 4-hour fishing charter in Tampa?

For a 4-hour fishing charter in Tampa, it’s customary to tip 15–20% of the trip cost. For example, on a $ 500 charter, that works out to about $75–$100. The exact amount is up to you and should reflect the level of service and overall experience.

Do you need a license to fish on a charter in Tampa?

No, you don’t need to purchase your own fishing license when booking a charter in Tampa. The captain’s license covers all guests on board.

What is included in a fishing charter in Tampa?

A Tampa fishing charter typically includes the boat, fuel, a licensed captain, fishing gear, bait, tackle, and the required fishing licenses that covers all the guest. Most charters also provide cleaning and bagging of your catch. Food, drinks, and gratuity for the captain are usually not included, so it’s best to bring your own.

How to pick a fishing charter?

Choose a charter based on the type of fishing you want (inshore or offshore) and trip duration. Look at the captain’s experience and reviews, consider the boat’s capacity and amenities, and compare trip lengths and pricing to find the best match for your goals and budget.

5 Best Tampa Fishing Charters [2025 Prices]

We’ve handpicked Tampa fishing charters that deliver top-rated experiences across Tampa Bay. Captains on our platform hold an average rating of 4.9/5 from over 200 reviews and bring an average of 6 years of guiding experience. These local experts know every channel, flat, and reef, ensuring your trip is both productive and memorable. Whether you’re planning a family outing or chasing trophy fish, you’ll be with some of the best captains in Tampa.

Tampa Inshore Fishing Charters

Tampa Bay’s inshore waters include grass flats, mangroves, oyster bars, and quiet backcountry creeks. Anglers often target Redfish, Snook, Spotted Seatrout, Spanish Mackerel, Snapper, Sheepshead, Black Drum, and Tripletail in these areas. Close proximity to shore and the use of light tackle with live bait or lures make inshore trips a comfortable option for families, beginners, and anyone looking for a relaxed day on the water.

Average price of inshore fishing: About $580, with trips typically ranging from $300 to $1,500. Charters run from quick 2-hour outings to full 8-hour adventures. The most popular option is a 4-hour trip starting at $450 for two anglers, plus $50 per additional guest (up to six total).

Show all inshore fishing charters

Tampa Offshore Fishing Charters

Offshore charters head into the Gulf of Mexico to fish reefs, wrecks, and ledges. Anglers often catch Gag Grouper, Red Snapper, Amberjack, King Mackerel, Barracuda, Wahoo, Triggerfish, and Mahi Mahi using trolling or bottom fishing. These trips involve longer runs but offer access to larger fish and diverse grounds.

Average price of offshore fishing: Trips cost about $750, typically ranging from $695 to $2,200. Most boats accommodate up to six anglers, with many offering a flat rate for the entire group.

Show all offshore fishing charters

What’s Biting This Week in Tampa, FL?

Cobia 38 in with Clearwater Beach Fishing Charter
8 days ago
Hogfish with Clearwater Beach Fishing Charter
8 days ago
Hogfish 18 in with Skinny Water Charters
10 days ago
Redfish 24 in with Cast Away Charters
10 days ago
Spotted Seatrout 20 in with Cast Away Charters
10 days ago
Hogfish 18 in with Skinny Water Charters
11 days ago
Redfish 26 in with Somewhere South Fishing Charters
12 days ago

What Anglers Say About Fishing Charters in Tampa, FL?

DM
Dave M.
5/5
We had a great time out with Captain TJ. Our trip was booked far in advance as this was a business trip to take customers out fishing. With everything going wrong that was out of Captain TJ's control (weather, engine problems, and getting bait) he had a plan and we as the customers would have never really known it if he had not told us. To explain on this day it was the first hard cold snap and 20+ mph winds out of the NW. The water was super rough out in the bay but TJ was up super early and braved the bay to get us a lot of great bait. He showed us pictures it was not fun for him. He had some awesome spots for us up in the river so the wind and rough waters did not give us any issues. We caught so many fish! Then towards the end he had engine troubles (his boat is brand new just bad luck), but Captain TJ had a plan and used his resources and we fished on and he got us back using a backup that his son brought to us. I can not say enough about how great a trip it was when everything was going against us. Book with confidence as this Captain has a plan even if things out of his control come knocking. Read full review
November 12, 2025
SG
Shands G.
5/5
Absolutely amazing experience with Captain TJ! His extensive knowledge of fishing techniques and local waters has made my trips with him memorable. Capt. TJ is incredibly patient and adapts his instructions to suit all skill levels. He takes a conservation approach which truly shows how much he cares about the environment. I can't recommend him enough for anyone looking to have a memorable fishing adventure! You will not find another Captain that works harder for you to make sure your trip is memorable. Read full review
November 11, 2025
WP
Wes P.
5/5
We had an amazing time. Catching from the first cast to the last. Thanks T.J. Until next time!!
November 11, 2025
JM
Jordan M.
5/5
We hired Ebb & Flow Charters for a company outing and it was a great experience! Charlie lined up enough boats to accommodate our crew and knows the Bay like the back of his hand. Extremely helpful showing us tips and techniques throughout the day. Highly recommended!
October 23, 2025
JG
James G.
5/5
Very professional and friendly. I definitely recommend them to any of my friends and family.
October 17, 2025
AD
Amy D.
5/5
My husband and son just went fishing with them and had a great time! Garrett kept there lines baited and every spot had fish! Spent the time fileting their catch at the end. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a private experience.
October 14, 2025
PM
Preston M.
5/5
I can’t recommend a better captain than Captain Parker. I’m a lifelong Florida angler, born and raised fishing the Indian River on the East Coast. The Gulf is a completely different fishery and I spent plenty of years coming up empty over there. Any fisherman knows how frustrating it is when techniques from your home don’t work in new waters, especially in Florida. On a buddy’s tip, I booked a late-fall charter with Captain Parker while I was in town on a work trip. That morning was classic; late-fall Florida: early cold front, rainy, breezy, gray. Didn’t matter. When I pulled up, Captain Parker already had the boat in the water and ready to roll with rods rigged, live and cut bait, chum, cold water, snacks, and even room for my little cooler of oat sodas. We pushed off despite the weather and worked the flats, the bay, a few secret spots until we found a channel stacked with hungry snook. Captain Parker put me on a four-foot bruiser and a solid 34-inch keeper. That night my friends and I had the best fish tacos I’ve ever eaten. Many thanks, Cap’n. Can’t wait to get back over that way. If you want to fish with someone who’s dialed in, knows his S, and still keeps it fun, book Captain Parker. You won’t regret, I promise! Read full review
October 10, 2025
NS
Nate S.
5/5
My boys (11/15) had a blast with Cap’n Bucky. We caught some good fish despite some tough weather conditions and he kept my boys entertained all day. We all highly recommend Bucky for your next day of fishing in the bay.
October 9, 2025
JH
James H.
5/5
Steven is a great captain. He was VERY easy to work with when some of my group cancelled last minute. He knows these waterways very well and was able to put us on a lot of fish. We did two half day trips with him. One was offshore and on inshore. I will use him again and would highly recommend others to book a trip with him, too.
October 2, 2025
•
4-Hour Inshore
buccaneer ..
5/5
👍👍
September 23, 2025
•
4-Hour Inshore

FAQs about fishing charters in Tampa, FL

How much does a fishing charter cost in Tampa?

$580 is the average price for the most popular 4-hour inshore trip for two people. Fishing charters in Tampa typically range from $400–$800 for a half day (4 hours) and $800–$1,500 for a full day (8 hours). Prices are usually per boat, with a base rate for two anglers and an added fee for each additional guest. Charters are worth it for the local expertise, quality equipment, and best chance of catching fish.
What are the best months for fishing in Tampa?

The best fishing in Tampa is March–June and September–November; fishing continues year-round, but July–August heat and summer rains (June–September) can slow things down.
How much should you tip for a 4-hour fishing charter in Tampa?

For a 4-hour fishing charter in Tampa, it’s customary to tip 15–20% of the trip cost. For example, on a $ 500 charter, that works out to about $75–$100. The exact amount is up to you and should reflect the level of service and overall experience.
Do you need a license to fish on a charter in Tampa?

No, you don’t need to purchase your own fishing license when booking a charter in Tampa. The captain’s license covers all guests on board.
What is included in a fishing charter in Tampa?

A Tampa fishing charter typically includes the boat, fuel, a licensed captain, fishing gear, bait, tackle, and the required fishing licenses that covers all the guest. Most charters also provide cleaning and bagging of your catch. Food, drinks, and gratuity for the captain are usually not included, so it’s best to bring your own.
How to pick a fishing charter?

Choose a charter based on the type of fishing you want (inshore or offshore) and trip duration. Look at the captain’s experience and reviews, consider the boat’s capacity and amenities, and compare trip lengths and pricing to find the best match for your goals and budget.

Nearby fishing destinations

Super Fishing works with many local fishing charter companies and individual captains so that you can book the trip at the lowest price.
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All the individual captains and fishing charter companies are required documents to be checked before listing their trips at Super Fishing.
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