St. Pete's Premier Nearshore Fishing Adventure

Reel in the Action: St. Pete's Nearshore Hotspots

Get ready to experience some of the best nearshore fishing St. Petersburg has to offer. Capt. Michael knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on the fish. Whether you're looking to bend a rod with some hard-fighting kingfish or outsmart a crafty tripletail, this 4-hour trip has got you covered. With room for up to three anglers, it's the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon on the water with family or friends.

What's Biting Near the Beach

St. Pete's coastal waters are teeming with life, and Capt. Michael knows just where to find the action. You'll be targeting some of the area's most sought-after game fish, including tripletail, kingfish, and mackerel. These waters offer consistent action year-round, but each season brings its own unique opportunities. Spring and fall are prime times for kingfish runs, while summer can be lights-out for tripletail hanging around floating debris. No matter when you go, there's always a chance to hook into something memorable.

Tactics for Tightlines

On this trip, you'll get hands-on experience with a variety of fishing techniques. For kingfish and mackerel, we might set up a trolling spread with live bait or artificial lures. It's a thrill to watch those rods go off when a big king skyrockets on the bait. When targeting tripletail, we'll switch gears to sight fishing. Capt. Michael will cruise the nearshore waters, scanning for these master of camouflage as they lurk near buoys or floating debris. Once spotted, it's all about making the perfect presentation to entice a bite. Don't worry if you're new to these methods – Capt. Michael will walk you through every step, from rigging baits to fighting fish.

Angler Tales

"Our trip was fantastic! Mike was great. He was so patient and good with our kids. We caught a lot of fish and had a great time! We hope to book with Mike again on our next annual trip!" - Tricia

"This was my daughter's first time ocean fishing. We had the best time. Terry was super cool and knowledgeable about the fish we were catching and he put us on the fish from first cast .. literally. Defintly going to book him again in future" - William

Fish in the Crosshairs

Tripletail are one of the most unique fish you'll encounter in these waters. These oddball-looking creatures are masters of disguise, often floating sideways near the surface to mimic floating debris. Don't let their lazy appearance fool you – once hooked, they put up a stubborn fight, using their broad, flat bodies to resist being reeled in. Tripletail can grow up to 30 pounds, but even a 5-pounder will give you a run for your money. They're also excellent table fare, with firm, white flesh that's perfect for grilling or blackening.

King Mackerel, or "kingfish" as they're known locally, are the speedsters of the nearshore waters. These toothy predators can reach speeds of up to 60 mph when chasing down prey. Hooking into a smoker king is like being connected to a freight train – they'll peel line off your reel faster than you can say "fish on!" Kingfish in the 15-30 pound range are common, but trophy fish pushing 50 pounds or more are always a possibility. The fight is only half the fun with kings – their firm, oily flesh makes for some of the best smoked fish dip you'll ever taste.

Why Anglers Can't Get Enough

There's something special about fishing the nearshore waters of St. Petersburg. Maybe it's the way the sun glints off the water as you're reeling in your catch. Or perhaps it's the thrill of never knowing what might hit your line next. Whatever it is, anglers keep coming back for more. Capt. Michael's local knowledge and easygoing personality make every trip a blast, whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line. Plus, being so close to shore means less travel time and more fishing time – it's a win-win for everyone.

Time to Wet a Line

If you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best nearshore fishing St. Petersburg has to offer, now's the time to book your trip with Capt. Michael. With his years of experience and passion for putting clients on fish, you're in for a treat. Remember, these trips are limited to just three anglers, so they tend to fill up fast – especially during peak seasons. Don't miss out on your chance to create some lasting memories and maybe even catch dinner while you're at it. Give Capt. Michael a call today and get ready to feel that first tug on your line. The fish are waiting – are you ready to reel 'em in?