Clearwater Inshore Fishing Charter — Inshore, Backcountry & Caladesi Island Trips
Head into Clearwater Bay for a half- or full-day inshore charter that chases redfish, trout, cobia and more around Caladesi Island and the bay’s mangrove-lined backcountry. Practical, family-friendly, and guided by captains who read tides and weather, these trips deliver steady action close to shore.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring polarized sunglasses
Polarizers cut surface glare so you can see fish and structure in shallow flats—essential for sight casting to redfish and trout.
Take motion-sickness prevention
If you’re susceptible, take meds or use acupressure bands before boarding—passes and open-water runs can be choppy.
Wear non-marking, grippy shoes
Wet docks and boat decks get slippery; shoes with traction improve safety and comfort when casting.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a hat
Florida sun is intense; use biodegradable sunscreen to protect reefs and your skin during long exposures.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle around Caladesi’s leeward mangrove channels during slack tide for quiet sight fishing
- •Shallow oyster bars off Sand Key draw big black drum in spring—ask the captain for a drift there
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphin
- •Wading shorebirds (e.g., herons, egrets)
Conservation Note
Practice catch-and-release for larger breeding fish and use biodegradable sunscreen; mangrove and seagrass habitats are fragile and essential to juvenile fish survival.
The Clearwater shoreline was long used by Native peoples and later by Spanish and Cuban fishermen; barrier islands here shifted over centuries as currents deposited sand and shell.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat facing Caladesi’s shoreline
- • Along a shallow flat when a redfish is tailing
- • Near Clearwater Pass during golden hour for skyline + water reflections
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduce glare and help you spot fish and structure in shallow water.
Light waterproof jacket
Wind or passing showers can chill you on the water—compact protection helps.
Non-marking deck shoesEssential
Provide traction on wet docks and boat decks without damaging surfaces.
Small dry bag or case for phone/cameraEssential
Protects electronics from spray and allows quick access for photos.
Common Questions
Are fishing licenses included?
Yes—fishing licenses are included in the charter, so you don’t need to purchase one separately.
What species can I expect to catch?
Common targets include redfish, spotted trout, black drum, cobia and jack crevalle; availability varies by season and tide.
Is the trip suitable for kids and beginners?
Yes—this charter is family-friendly and suitable for beginners; guides provide instruction and handle boat operations.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips are canceled for unsafe weather with full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours prior or sooner for immediate unsafe conditions.
Are rods and tackle provided?
Yes—all fishing and safety equipment is provided by the charter operator.
Do I need to tip the captain?
Gratuity is customary for good service; 15–20% is a common guideline for full-day trips.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–8 hours
Location
Clearwater, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—able to stand and cast for periods; captains can accommodate limited mobility.
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