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Skilled Angler's Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing Trip
- Published Date: September 7, 2025
- Fishing
- Tampa Bay
- $500 - $700 price range
Summary
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Rods Bent, Lines Tight
Redfish all the way!
Kids in action!
Fishing is fun!
ready to set sail?
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Tampa Bay Fishing is fun!
Creating memories while fishing!
Epic catch for today!
Catch of the day!
Hook of the day!
Redfish all the way!
Kids in action!
Fishing is fun!
ready to set sail?
null
Tampa Bay Fishing is fun!
Creating memories while fishing!
Epic catch for today!
Catch of the day!
Hook of the day!
Redfish all the way!
Kids in action!
Fishing is fun!
ready to set sail?
Tampa Bay's Pro Angler Challenge: 4-Hour Inshore Thrill
Ready to put your skills to the test in Tampa Bay's rich inshore waters? Capt. Tony Frankland's 4-hour charter is tailor-made for seasoned anglers looking to level up their game. With room for up to 4 guests, this trip zeros in on the bay's most sought-after species, from the hard-fighting jack crevalle to the elusive snook. Capt. Tony's years of local know-how mean you're in for a day of strategic fishing that'll keep even the most experienced anglers on their toes. Get set for a morning or afternoon of light tackle action, where reading the tides and perfecting your technique could lead to the catch of a day.
What to Expect on the Water
From the moment you step aboard, you'll know this isn't your average charter. Capt. Tony runs a tight ship, designed for anglers who know their stuff and want to dial it in even further. You'll be hitting prime spots around Tampa Bay, from grass flats to mangrove shorelines, depending on the tide and where the bite's hot. The focus here is on quality over quantity – we're talking about outsmarting some of the bay's wiliest residents. Expect to switch up tactics on the fly, whether you're sight-casting to tailing redfish or working a topwater for explosive snook strikes. And with Florida's forgiving climate, you can leave the heavy gear at home and focus on finesse fishing that'll really test your mettle.
Techniques That'll Up Your Game
This trip is all about honing those pro-level skills. You might start off working soft plastics along drop-offs for mangrove snapper, then switch to freelining live bait for cobia cruising the surface. Capt. Tony's a master at reading the water, so be ready to learn the subtleties of how tide and structure affect fish behavior. You'll be using light tackle setups that demand precision – think 10-15 lb test lines and circle hooks for those conservation-minded releases. And if the jacks are blitzing bait schools, hold on tight – you're in for some of the most heart-pounding action Tampa Bay has to offer. Throughout the trip, Capt. Tony's there to fine-tune your approach, whether it's tweaking your retrieve speed or showing you how to work a dock like a local pro.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish: The bulldogs of the flats, redfish in Tampa Bay can range from slot-sized fighters to over-slot bruisers that'll test your drag. Look for their signature tail waves in shallow water, especially during falling tides when they're rooting for crabs and shrimp. These copper-colored beauties are known for their powerful runs and are a favorite among anglers for their tenacity.
Crevalle Jack: When a school of jacks moves in, it's like a freight train hit the water. These powerhouses can turn a calm day into chaos in seconds. They're often found busting bait on the surface, and hooking one on light tackle is like being tied to a speedboat. Jacks are the perfect target for anglers who want to test their stamina and fighting skills.
Cobia: These curious fish often show up when you least expect them, sometimes following rays or cruising just under the surface. Landing a cobia is a true test of an angler's quick thinking and accuracy. They grow big in Tampa Bay waters and are known for their strong initial runs and dogged fights. Cobia season peaks in spring, but you can find them year-round if you know where to look.
Bluefish: While often overlooked, bluefish provide some of the most exciting topwater action you can find. These toothy critters are all attitude, known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. They move in schools, so when you find one, you've often found many. Bluefish are at their best in cooler months, making them a perfect target when other species slow down.
Snook: The prized catch of Tampa Bay, snook are the epitome of inshore game fish. They're crafty, strong, and love to hang around structure, making them a true challenge to land. Snook fishing peaks during warmer months, especially around bridges and mangrove edges. Their famous gill-rattling jumps and powerful runs make them a bucket-list fish for many anglers.
Top Catches This Season
Tampa Bay's been on fire lately, with anglers reporting some stellar catches. The redfish bite has been particularly hot around oyster bars and mangrove islands, with many fish pushing the upper slot limit. Snook fishing's picked up as waters warm, with some trophy-sized linesiders being caught and released around dock lights and bridge pilings. Cobia have been making surprise appearances, giving skilled anglers a run for their money when they show up alongside rays. And for those looking for non-stop action, schools of jack crevalle have been terrorizing bait pods all over the bay, providing arm-burning fights for those lucky enough to get in on the blitz.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. Tampa Bay's diverse ecosystem means you're always in for something new. One day you might be sight-fishing for reds in gin-clear shallows, the next you're battling a bruiser cobia that appeared out of nowhere. Capt. Tony's trips are like a masterclass in inshore fishing, where each outing builds on your skills and understanding of the water. Plus, there's something special about fishing a bay that's surrounded by city skylines yet feels a world away once you're on the water. It's this mix of urban proximity and natural beauty that keeps anglers coming back season after season, always eager to see what Tampa Bay will serve up next.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're an angler who lives for the challenge and wants to fish with one of Tampa Bay's most respected guides, Capt. Tony Frankland's 4-hour inshore trip is your ticket to leveling up. Whether you're looking to finally land that gator trout you've been after or want to test your skills against Tampa's hardest-fighting jacks, this trip delivers. Remember, with only 4 spots available, these charters fill up fast – especially during peak seasons. So don't wait to book your chance at Tampa Bay's inshore slam. Grab your favorite rod, rally your fishing buddies, and get ready for a day on the water that'll have you planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock. Just remember, deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're locked and loaded for an unforgettable day of Tampa Bay's finest inshore action.
Learn more about the species
Bluefish
Bluefish are the speed demons of Tampa Bay, typically ranging from 2-10 pounds. You'll find them in open water, often near the surface, chasing bait schools. They're most active in spring and fall during their migrations. Anglers love blues for their aggressive strikes and strong fights. Watch for birds diving or bait fish jumping - that's often a sign of bluefish feeding frenzies. A local tip: use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs from their razor-sharp teeth. Fast-moving lures like spoons or topwater plugs work great. When you hook one, keep the line tight and be ready for acrobatic jumps. While they're not the best for eating when large, smaller ones can be tasty if prepared right. Remember, handle them carefully - those teeth are no joke!
Cobia
Cobia are the curiosity seekers of Tampa Bay, often mistaken for sharks due to their similar profile. They typically range from 20-40 pounds but can exceed 100. Look for them around buoys, wrecks, and other structures, or free-swimming near the surface. Spring and early summer are prime times as they migrate through. Anglers prize cobia for their hard fights and excellent eating quality. They're known for following boats, so always keep an eye out. A local trick: when you spot one, toss out a live eel or large jig and let it sink slowly - cobia often can't resist. Be patient and persistent; these fish can be finicky but are worth the effort. Remember, they have a habit of making blistering runs just as you're about to land them, so be prepared for some last-minute excitement.
Crevalle Jack
Crevalle jacks are the bulldogs of Tampa Bay, averaging 3-5 pounds but capable of reaching 30+. Look for them in open water, around structures, or chasing bait schools near the surface. They're most active in warmer months, especially summer. Anglers love jacks for their explosive strikes and tireless fights - pound for pound, they're one of the strongest fish out there. Watch for diving birds to locate feeding schools. A local tip: use a fast retrieve with topwater lures or flashy spoons to trigger their predatory instincts. Be ready for a hard hit and keep a tight line - these guys are known for sudden direction changes. While not the best eating, catch-and-release fishing for jacks is a blast, especially on light tackle.
Redfish
Redfish are a Tampa Bay favorite, typically ranging from 20-30 inches and 3-12 pounds. You'll find them in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near mangroves, often with their backs exposed in water as shallow as 1-4 feet. They're most active in spring and fall, but can be caught year-round. Anglers love redfish for their strong fight and excellent table fare. When sight-fishing, look for their distinctive tail in shallow water - it often sticks up as they feed. A local trick is to use a gold spoon lure - the flash mimics baitfish and drives redfish crazy. Cast beyond them and retrieve slowly past their nose for best results. Remember, they have poor eyesight but great hearing, so a stealthy approach is key.
Snook
Snook are the rock stars of Tampa Bay fishing, typically ranging from 5-15 pounds but capable of topping 30. You'll find them around mangroves, docks, and in passes, often ambushing prey from the shadows. They're most active in warmer months, especially during summer spawning runs. Anglers prize snook for their hard-fighting nature and challenging catch. A local trick: fish the outgoing tide at night with live mullet or large white jigs. Cast close to structure and be ready for explosive strikes. Snook are notorious for running straight back to cover, so you'll need quick reflexes and a strong drag. While they're excellent eating, strict regulations often make them catch-and-release only. Remember, a snook's lateral line is super sensitive, so a stealthy approach is crucial for success.
About the Ranger (Bay boat)
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 38
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200
