Best Fishing Charters in St. Petersburg
Description
St. Petersburg is one of the prime areas for fishing in Florida, and the captains and crew of St. Petersburg fishing charters are experienced with the water and fish in the area, making them the perfect choice for your great day on the water. There are many St. Petersburg fishing charters for you to choose from at various harbors.
Some of these St. Petersburg fishing charters have party boats for 50 + people, an excellent option for your family and smaller groups of you and your buddies. Half-day and full-day trips will take you for a day of excitement on the flats, and others have shared private trips to the bay and the Gulf for some offshore action. With all of these choices, choosing a St. Petersburg fishing charter will ensure that you will bring home a cooler full of tasty fish for dinner.
Some of the most popular charters are inshore grass flats, mangroves and backcountry, where the four fish that make up a Grand Slam lurk; Redfish, Snook, Tarpon and Sea Trout. Along with fishing the inshore flats, the Tampa Bay holds many structures and reef systems home to a whole host of fish. Some of the fish you may encounter are Snapper and Grouper (a couple of varieties throughout the year), Pompano, Permit, Mackerel (both Spanish and King), Cobia, Sharks and more.
When you go out to the Gulf with your St. Petersburg fishing charter, be ready for fast-paced action because some fish here will get your heart rate moving. Kingfish, Mahi Mahi, Cobia, Wahoo and Tuna will give you the fight of your life, and colossal snapper and grouper, including the Goliath Grouper, will bend your line as you try to reel these monsters in.
St. Petersburg is an angler’s paradise, and hooking up with one of the many St. Petersburg fishing charters is the best way to experience fasAt-paced fishing all over the bay and offshore.
St. Petersburg Fishing Seasons
Winter Fishing Season
As winter settles in, St. Petersburg’s fishing scene continues to thrive. Inshore anglers can target popular game fish like Speckled Trout, Redfish, and Sheepshead, which seek shelter in the warmer estuaries and backwater areas. These fish are attracted to the comfortable temperatures found in these protected environments. Offshore fishing enthusiasts can set their sights on Grouper and Snapper near the reefs and wrecks.
Spring Fishing Season
With the arrival of spring, St. Petersburg’s waters come alive with a multitude of fish. Inshore anglers can enjoy the thrill of targeting Speckled Trout, Redfish, and Snook as they become more active with the warming weather. This season, shallow flats, grassy areas, and mangrove shorelines become prime spots. Offshore adventures can lead to encounters with Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, and Cobia near the nearshore reefs and structures.
Summer Fishing Season
St. Petersburg’s summer fishing season is a true angler’s paradise. Inshore fishing enthusiasts can target Redfish, Snook, and Mangrove Snapper as they thrive in the warm, shallow waters, grassy flats, and mangrove-lined estuaries. St. Petersburg is also famous for its exceptional Tarpon fishing during the summer months, attracting anglers from near and far. Offshore adventures provide opportunities to catch Grouper, Snapper, and Mahi Mahi near the reefs and wrecks. The nearshore waters are teeming with Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, and Sharks, adding an extra dose of excitement to your fishing experience.
Fall Fishing Season
As summer transitions to fall, St. Petersburg’s fishing opportunities remain remarkable. Inshore anglers can continue targeting Redfish, Snook, and Trout as they remain active in the cooler months. The shallow flats, grassy areas, and mangrove shorelines continue to provide excellent fishing grounds. Offshore enthusiasts can focus on Snapper, Grouper, and King Mackerel as they migrate closer to the shore.
Before embarking on your fishing adventure, familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses. Responsible angling practices, such as adhering to catch and size limits, proper fish handling, and releasing undersized or protected species, are essential for preserving the marine ecosystem and ensuring sustainable fishing in St. Petersburg.
Whether you prefer fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, saltwater fishing in St. Petersburg promises an unforgettable experience. The variety of fishing seasons, combined with the area’s stunning natural beauty, make it a true haven for anglers seeking relaxation and excitement. So grab your fishing gear, immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings, and embark on a fishing journey in St. Petersburg that will create lifelong memories and deepen your appreciation for the wonders of the sea.
St. Petersburg Weather Conditions
Spring (March to May)
During the spring months from March to May, St. Petersburg, Florida, experiences pleasant weather conditions for saltwater fishing. The temperatures range from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C), providing comfortable and enjoyable days on the water. The humidity remains moderate, making it an ideal time for anglers to explore the scenic waterways. As spring progresses, the water temperatures rise, attracting a variety of fish species to the area. Inshore fishing becomes more rewarding with opportunities to catch snook, redfish, and spotted sea trout. Offshore anglers can target species like king mackerel, grouper, and snapper.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in St. Petersburg is marked by warm to hot weather, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). The summer months from June to August bring higher humidity levels, so anglers should be prepared for the heat. Despite the warm weather, it is an excellent time for saltwater fishing, offering opportunities to catch a wide range of species. Inshore fishing remains productive with snook, redfish, and tarpon being the primary targets. Offshore fishing becomes more exciting with the chance to reel in species like mahi-mahi, tuna, and sailfish.
Fall (September to November)
Fall in St. Petersburg brings slightly cooler temperatures, ranging from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). The humidity levels start to decrease, creating comfortable conditions for fishing. The months from September to November are considered one of the best times for angling, as many migratory species pass through the area. Offshore fishing offers the chance to catch king mackerel, cobia, and grouper, while inshore fishing remains productive with snook, redfish, and spotted sea trout being the primary targets.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in St. Petersburg is mild and inviting for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. The temperatures range from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C), providing a pleasant escape from colder climates. While winter is considered the low season for tourism, it doesn’t mean the fishing is any less exciting. Inshore fishing can yield catches of sheepshead, black drum, and speckled sea trout. Offshore opportunities exist for species like hogfish, snapper, and amberjack. Additionally, this season offers a chance to target winter-specific species like pompano and flounder.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to go charter fishing in St. Peterburg, FL?
The average prices to charter fishin in St. Petersburg, FL.
Offshore- 4 hr – $800 for 6 anglers
- 6 hr – $1190 for 6 anglers
- 8 hr – $1450 for 6 anglers
- 4 hr – $667 for 6 anglers
- 6 hr – $800 for 6 anglers
- 8 hr – $1150 for 6 anglers
- 4 hr – $550 for 2 anglers
- 6 hr – $690 for 2 anglers
- 8 hr – $1050 for 2 anglers
- 4 hr – $850 for two anglers
- 4 hr – $630
- $2300 – avg 11 hr
- 4 hr – $64/adult $39/child
- 8 hr – $94/adult $61/child
- 4 hr – $2250 (avg. up to 120 anglers)
- 8 hr – $3650