As the waters warm up and fish migrate from south to north, springtime Tampa Bay fishing charters enjoy loads of great fishing action.
We live in a year-round fishing haven. It’s one of the reasons I’m so thrilled to be able to live the dream as a Tampa Bay fishing charter captain. From Anna Maria to Egmont Key to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, we get to see loads of action and idyllic scenery whenever we hit the water.
That being said, there is something magical about springtime fishing in Tampa waters.
Not only do warmer waters bring migratory fish through the area as they move up from the keys, but warm temps in general trigger activity. And active fish make for active anglers.
So take your pick of our area’s endless fishing spots—with the help of an experienced guide, you’re going to have luck. Here’s what we’ll be hauling into the boat this season.
Nearshore/Inshore Fishing Charters in Tampa
One of the reasons fishing booms this time of year is that our shallower nearshore waters are literally teeming with baitfish. So fish moving through the area are hungrily gobbling up everything they can find. And even the fish that stay in our waters year-round are rediscovering their hunger as they become more active in the warmer waters.
About three miles offshore into the Gulf, we’ll run into schools of migrating species that are hunting slightly deeper waters all the way up the coast. These trips are when we visit reefs and shipwrecks, where all kinds of species gather to feed.
Here are some of the many species we enjoy targeting in March, April, and May.
Sea trout: Also known as speckled or spotted trout, these delicious fish are some of our most consistent biters in the area, especially throughout a variety of shallow-water habitats. We’ll continue to go after trout all the way through the summer, so if you get a taste for them now, you’ve got a lot to look forward to.
Mangrove snapper: Likewise, great mangrove snapper season starts now and just gets better from here. As the name suggests, we can often find them hiding among mangrove roots, but we have even better luck in deeper waters like the shipping channel, as well as great feeding spots along bridge pilings, reefs, and shipwrecks.
Spanish mackerel: These mackerel species are often described as “explosive” because they hit the hook with a bang. And once you’ve got one on the line, prepare for a fight. They love to make a run for it.
Pompano: Experienced anglers appreciate the thrill of landing a permit. They’re picky eaters—small crustaceans only, please—but fantastic fighters. And when you get to see one up close, you’ll automatically smile at how beautiful and striking they are: tall, silvery bodies with black and yellow fins.
Cobia: Redfish aren’t the only species you can sight fish for. Be on the lookout for cobia and/or the schools of rays they’re pursuing. It’s also helpful that they’re generally not spooked by boats, and might even come poking around out of curiosity. It’s fabulous when the fish come to you!
Other spectacular springtime species: grouper, flounder, pompano, and more.
Take Advantage of a Spring Fishing Charter in Tampa Bay
Whether you live here full-time, spend the season in the area, or have just come here for spring break, you should know the kind of amazing fishing we have in Tampa during the spring.
Book your Florida Fishing Charters trip today. You won’t be disappointed!
