Private Tampa Bay Fishing Charter with Captain Slobby Joe
Spend four hours on Tampa Bay with Captain "Slobby" Joe chasing inshore favorites across flats, channels and mangrove backwaters. This private charter supplies gear, local knowledge, and a real chance at species like redfish, snook, and tarpon while offering family-friendly instruction.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring motion-sickness medication
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication or use acupressure bands an hour before departure — the bay can be choppy on windy days.
Sun protection is non-negotiable
Wear a wide-brim hat, long-sleeve sun shirt and reef-safe sunscreen — reflected sunlight off the water intensifies UV exposure.
Footwear and balance
Non-marking deck shoes or sandals with a strap give traction and protect toes during netting and boat movement.
Ask about local regulations
Check with the captain about seasonal closures and size limits — he follows local rules and will advise best catch-and-release practices.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Shell Key Preserve sandbars for post-trip beachcombing
- •The flats off Fort De Soto Park for quiet sight-fishing
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •West Indian manatees
Conservation Note
Captains commonly practice and promote catch-and-release for vulnerable species and follow seasonal closures; using reef-safe sunscreen and proper waste disposal helps protect seagrass and oyster habitats.
Tampa Bay’s fishing roots run deep — Indigenous tribes and later Cuban and Spanish fisheries shaped the region’s maritime culture and seafood economy.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow during a negotiated approach to a fishable flat
- • Atop the T-top for wide bay panoramas
- • Near the net when landing a fish (with the captain’s permission)
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Cuts glare for better sight-fishing and protects eyes from reflected UV.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local marine habitats from harmful chemicals.
Non-marking deck shoesEssential
Provides traction and protects your feet while moving on a wet deck.
Motion-sickness meds or bands
Useful if you’re prone to seasickness, especially on windy days or choppy water.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Private charters typically cover licensing for paying customers, but confirm with the captain; non-angling guests usually don’t need one.
What species can I expect to catch?
Expect inshore species like Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Snook, Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, and seasonal Tarpon and Cobia.
Are kids allowed on the boat?
Yes — the charter welcomes children; infants must sit on laps and life jackets are provided as required.
Is gear provided?
Yes — rods, reels, tackle and bottled water are included; bring personal items like sunglasses and sunscreen.
What if weather cancels the trip?
Trips are cancellable for bad weather with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours prior; the captain may reschedule for safety.
Can we keep our catch?
Keeping fish depends on local regulations and species; the captain will advise on legal size and bag limits and will help with filleting if requested.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Tampa, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to move on a rocking deck and step in/out of a skiff is helpful
Ready to Explore Tampa?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now