Sport Fishing
Sport fishing is similar to inshore and offshore fishing. Depending on the target species, you may fish inshore or offshore. Sport fishing trips target larger species of fish, that are more elusive and harder to catch. This makes fishing for them a lot more exciting. It is typically a slower paced fishing trip that is packed full of excitement when the fish are biting.There is no guarantee on sport fishing trips. This is part of the excitement. Fishing for these species of fish is hard by itself. Fishing with an experienced Charter captain definitely gives you the best odds at checking one of these fish off your bucket list.
Shark Fishing
Shark fishing is always interesting for families, fishing buddies, groups of friends, or even a solo trip. You’ll enjoy a private fishing charter to sit back and fish for hours with the help of an expert. More than a dozen different shark species lurk beneath the waters of Tampa Bay, including the blacktip (Carcharhinus limbatus), bonnethead (Sphyrna tiburo), hammerhead (Sphyrnidae Sphyrna), nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum), lemon shark (Negaprion brevirostris), and bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas). When in doubt, you can ask your captain about the shark you catch. Even if you have to let it go, you are bound to have a fun story to share about your shark fishing charter journey. You can catch non-prohibited shark species in Florida at any time of year. Typically, the best time is from May to August. Call Aquatic Escapes and let us know the type of shark that interests you. We’ll tell you the best date to come for your trip.
Tampa Bay Shark Fishing Charters
Most media depict these creatures as terrifying. However, many fishers understand sharks to be graceful, majestic, and thrilling to catch. No matter your experience level, book one of our Tampa shark fishing charters for the thrill of a lifetime. There are plenty of different types of sharks in Tampa Bay. It’s the perfect spot to land your trophy fish or just have fun. We enjoy guiding all anglers in the pursuit of catching sharks.
Shark Fishing
Shark fishing with us is a first-class experience. Tampa Bay has an abundance of sharks, and we will tailor your trip to meet your needs. Some of the species you may find are:
- Spinners
- Black Tips
- Hammerheads
- Nurse sharks
- Bonnet Heads
- Bull Sharks
Aquatic Escapes is your go-to for safe and exciting shark fishing. We can find shark action at any time of day in the Gulf of Mexico and the Tampa Bay area. Shark fishing is for fishers with any level of experience, so don’t hesitate to schedule your charter.
Where Do You Catch Sharks?
Depending on the type of shark you want, you may not have to go into deep water. You can find many shark species just offshore Tampa or in bay areas. Your captain will guide you to the best location to find impressive catches. Some options for hunting sharks are:
- Sight fishing in shallow water
- Near the Gulf of Mexico beach
- Shipping channel ledges
- The Sunshine Skyway bridge
Baiting a shark is the easy part. They will eat almost anything, especially if it has a strong smell. Some bait options include mullet, bonita, blue runners, and ladyfish. You can also use old meat or fish carcasses. Don’t worry; we will provide the best bait for your catch.
Shark Fishing Charters
Aquatic Escapes provides a state-of-the-art shark fishing experience. Our boat contains the latest equipment and electronics to ensure that you have a successful trip. Whatever your goals are, we can help you meet them. When you fish with us, you get an expert crew at your service. Our crew has years of experience and includes a loveable dog. Additionally, we ensure your safety with USCG-approved vests and gear. Contact us for more information on shark fishing charters or tours for your Tampa trip. We will be happy to design the perfect Tampa Bay shark fishing expedition.
Kingfish
Tampa Bay Kingfish Fishing Charters
If you want to add some fun in the sun to your trip to Tampa Bay, Florida, look no further than taking a Kingfish Fishing trip with Aquatic Escapes. We are Tampa’s premier charter fishing and tour company, and we provide our guests with a chance to reel in some of the titans of the Gulf. Captain Jarrod will work with you to hone your skills and help you catch the fish of your dreams.
Kingfish Fishing
Kingfish are one of the Sunshine State’s premium catches. This species is a speedy fish that can give you a run for your money, and reeling them in is quite the rush! Catching a Kingfish is a considerable achievement, and it takes a mixture of skill and dexterity to catch one. These big beasts weigh anywhere from 15 to 40 pounds, and you can lure them in with a hearty mixture of fresh chum in the water. At Aquatic Escapes, our team can show you exactly where to look for the elusive Kingfish, and we will certainly help you go home with a trophy.
Kingfish Season
Kingfish are somewhat migratory, and their schools are generally near Tampa Bay in the Spring and Fall. The low season is between December to February, but there are still some Kingfish out there for the taking. Even if you come during the slow season, there are still many more fish out there for the taking. And since Tampa Bay is tropical, you can expect nice weather while you’re out on the water.
Best Way to Catch Kingfish
You can try a handful of ways to catch Kingfish, and which one works best will depend on the season and your skill level. Our team will assess the situation and tell you which methods will be most effective. The combination of slow trolling and live chumming is an excellent way to catch Kingfish, as the bait will lure the Kingfish up to the surface for easier capture. Although you’ll likely come in contact with more Kingfish using a fast trolling method, it might be harder to pull them in. Kite-fishing is another popular way of catching Kingfish, but it requires some skill and has a learning curve. Nevertheless, we are happy to show you the ropes!
Why Fish with Us?
We offer services and trips for novices, experts, and everyone in between. Our goal is that you have a good day out at sea and maybe make a catch or two. Professionalism and experience are the names of the game at Aquatic Escapes. We work with you in advance to discover what you’re looking to accomplish and tailor the trip specifically for you. Whether you’re planning on heading out to sea on a solo trip, or as part of a larger group, Aquatic Escapes can help you plan out the ideal journey. If you’re ready to climb aboard and try your hand at catching Kingfish, contact us at 813-997-9897. Let us make your trip to Tampa Bay as memorable as possible.
Tarpon
The Silver King of Tampa Bay
Is battling the silver king on your angling bucket list? If so, Aquatic Escapes tarpon fishing charters has you covered. Our Tampa Bay sport fishing excursions will take you to the heart of the action.
An Audience with the King
Tarpon has earned the name the silver king for their distinctive shiny silver scales. Many anglers consider the silver king one of the most sought-after fish in Tampa Bay. Tarpon may not be renowned for its flavor, but catching this fish is one of the most exhilarating sport fishing experiences you’ll ever have. Long, fast runs and spectacular jumps contribute to the silver king’s reputation as one of the world’s greatest sport fish. Experienced anglers know tarpon for its stamina, and they can put up a fight that lasts anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. While you might find it tempting to draw out the fight, you should end it as quickly as possible. Not only will this help ensure the tarpon’s survival, but it will also help avoid drawing in any nearby sharks.
No Small Fry
Tarpon typically range in size between 80 and 140 pounds, though they can reach upwards of 200 pounds. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida holds 29 world records for tarpon. However, the current all-tackle world record tarpon, weighing in at a whopping 286 pounds 9 ounces, was caught in Africa in March 2003. In 2013, Florida might have had a chance to take that record. A group of anglers caught a tarpon measuring 96 inches long with a girth of 53 inches, estimated at over 300 pounds. At the time, the anglers didn’t realize they had a potential record-breaker and released the fish, making it impossible to submit for a world record.
Silver King Rules
If you want to attempt an International Game Fish Association record-breaking catch, you need a $50 harvest tag. Tarpon fishing is catch-and-release only. While there is no minimum size limit, all tarpon over 40 inches must stay in the water.
You must also follow these rules while fishing for tarpon in Florida:
- Use hook and line only. Spearing, snagging, and snatch hooking are prohibited.
- Use only single hooks, not treble hooks.
- A dehooking tool is highly recommended.
- Do not fish for tarpon off bridges or piers.
- Do not fish where large, predatory sharks feed.
Best Time for Tarpon Fishing
We offer tarpon fishing charters from May through July during the height of the migration period. However, anglers have caught tarpon as early as March and as late as August. Tampa Bay is one of the best places to find tarpon in an area world-renowned for its summer fishery. With our expertise at Aquatic Escapes and luck on your side, you can achieve multiple catches on our fishing charters.
