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Tampa Bay Fishing


Fishing in Tampa Bay is much more than dropping a line in the clear waters. There are so many different types of fishing excursions to become a part of.

There is something for everyone from the seasoned fisherman to the individual giving it a go for the first time. Boredom simply is not an option. Part of the fun is choosing where and how to fish.

Offshore Fishing

Florida has plenty of ocean to spare, making off shore deep sea fishing in Tampa Bay an exciting and adventurous sport. Chartered boats and guides are plentiful in this region for taking fishermen out to some of the best fishing spots.

Charted boats can take out small and large groups of people at a time or for a more relaxed day of fishing, carry only a few passengers. Troll the waters or anchor and drop a line to bottom fish and catch a everything from sharks to sailfish.

Freshwater Fishing

Freshwater fishing is a popular sport among native Floridians and tourists. Though Florida has only a few lakes and public ponds to fish from, there are plenty of canals and waterways weaving amongst the mangroves and cypress swamps that are swimming with fish.

Some of the state parks located in and around the bay area offer tranquil fishing spots in their rivers and ponds. Freshwater fishing requires less tackle than deep sea fishing but is just as fun. Florida’s freshwater fishing lets anglers catch bass, catfish, crappie and more.

Pier Fishing

Pier fishing is a popular sport not only in the Tampa Bay area but in the state as a whole.  Bring a fold up chair, some gear and your patience. Fishing spots on the piers tend to fill up fast during peak fishing hours.

Cast a line directly into the waters and wait for a bite. Pier fishing is an alternative fishing solution to boat fishing. Besides the piers, inlets and beach fishing are other ways to fish without a boat. Expect to catch mackerel, snapper, bluefish and more.

Fly Fishing

For those who like a sense of adventure and want to try something different, specialty charters may be the answer. Fly fishing can be done in rivers and streams as well as the ocean. Guides are great for leading the way and showing people where and how to catch the best fish.

Fly fishing can be enjoyed by fisherman of all skill levels and be a great experience with the right guide or going it alone. Bonefish, tarpon and even sharks, among many others, can all be caught while fly fishing.

Kayak & Canoe Fishing

Kayak and canoe fishing may sound out of the ordinary but they have proven to be a great way to catch fish. Since both the kayak and canoe are smaller than fishing vessels and flat skiffs, they can be easily and quietly maneuvered in tight, narrow spaces.

These trips can be chartered and run by guides, taken offshore or in remote locations that are only accessible by boat.

Some of Tampa Bay’s most popular fishing areas are fish specific. Don’t be afraid to venture around or out of the bay for some shark, sailfish, tarpon or bonefish fishing trips using different methods.


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