We got out to the shipping channel before the winds start to blow and ended up with a nice 21-in Red River. Then we moved to the mangroves and caught so many redfish they lost count


Red grouper caught while fishing in Ruskin FL waters

Channel bite hot, mangroves on fire

Tampa Bay delivered another solid day on the water, and Captain Eric made the most of it with steady action around structure. The sheepshead bite stayed consistent, giving anglers plenty to work with, and the variety of snapper added a nice mix to the cooler. These fish were holding tight, so putting out some chum helped bring them in close and keep the bite going.

Guest angler Vanh Ketsan enjoyed a smooth, productive day, proving once again that patience, the right approach, and local knowledge make all the difference. Tampa Bay’s winter patterns are shaping up well, and Fishin Magician Inshore continues to put guests on dependable inshore species throughout the bay.

Steady Bites and Solid Action Across Tampa Bay

Redfish

Redfish, Snook, and Summer Bites Heat Up Tampa Bay Waters

Tampa Bay is firing on all cylinders this July, offering anglers a mix of steady inshore action and a few surprises. Redfish are schooling along the mangrove lines and oyster bars, especially during the morning incoming tides. Most reds are slot-sized, but a few oversized bruisers are making appearances, especially around the mouth of the bay and in shallower grass flats.

Snook fishing is strong, particularly near residential docks, bridges, and the passes. These fish are staging close to current breaks and ambushing live bait—whitebait and threadfins are getting crushed right now. Night fishing around light lines has also been productive for targeting larger snook avoiding the midday heat.

Trout are holding steady on the deeper grass flats, especially between 4–6 feet of water. Anglers drifting with popping corks and live shrimp are finding success, with a few big specks mixed in. Tarpon have thinned out a bit compared to June, but there are still a few rollers along the beaches and channels for those willing to hunt.

Whether you’re poling the flats or drifting the channels, Tampa Bay is delivering quality fish and good variety—just be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water.

The near shore bite has been great. Book your Tampa Bay Fishing Charters now!

Tampa Bay Fishing Report 

In December, anticipate pleasant weather and optimal fishing conditions. Exploring the deeper bay waters can result in catches of Redfish and Trout  Additionally, keep an eye out for Flounder and Sheepshead, as they tend to thrive in the slightly cooler temperatures of the season.

December Fishing Report

Gag Grouper

Gag Grouper

Gag grouper season is open, book now to reserve a spot. Book now to reserve a spot and get ready for a day of epic fishing action you won't want to miss!

Experience the magic of fishing in the pristine waters of Tampa Bay with Fishin Magician Inshore, led by the seasoned and skilled Captain Eric Topole. Located in the charming town of Ruskin, Florida, Fishin Magician Inshore offers a range of fishing trips that allow you to pursue a variety of species that change with the seasons. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, Captain Eric and his team will ensure you have an unforgettable fishing adventure. Your journey begins aboard a brand-new 24’ Blazer Bay center console boat, powered by a robust 300 HP Suzuki engine. This vessel can comfortably accommodate up to six people, making it an ideal choice for families, friends, or small groups. Equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and fish-finding systems, this boat will swiftly guide you to the best fishing spots in Tampa Bay. It also boasts a wireless trolling motor for stealthy approaches, an ice-box to keep your catch fresh, and a livewell for live bait. Captain Eric Topole, with his extensive local knowledge, will take you on an angling adventure to target a wide range of species, including Grouper, Snapper, Tripletail, Bull Shark, and more. Whether you prefer light or heavy tackle, Captain Eric has you covered. He employs a variety of techniques, such as bottom fishing, trolling, spinning, and popping, to maximize your chances of landing a trophy catch. What's even better is that you can keep all the fish you catch, and Captain Eric will gladly clean and fillet them for you, free of charge. Fishin Magician Inshore is a family-friendly operation, and children are more than welcome on board. It's the perfect opportunity to bond with your loved ones while enjoying the beauty of Tampa Bay and its abundant marine life. Don't worry about bringing your own fishing gear or obtaining fishing licenses—Captain Eric has it all covered. All you need to bring are some snacks and beverages to keep you energized throughout your day on the water. Fishin Magician Inshore, helmed by Captain Eric Topole, offers an incredible fishing experience in Tampa Bay. With top-notch equipment, expert guidance, and the chance to reel in a variety of impressive catches, this is your ticket to a memorable day of angling in one of Florida's most beautiful and productive fishing destinations. Book your trip with Fishin Magician Inshore and prepare for a charming day on the water. Book your fishing charter today!

About Our Company

Ready to reel in unforgettable memories on the water? Book your next adventure with Fishin Magician Inshore in Tampa Bay and experience the thrill, the fish, and the fun like never before!

Fishin Magician Inshore delivers top-tier Tampa Bay fishing charters, led by seasoned local guide Captain Eric Topole. With years of experience on the water, Captain Eric brings deep regional knowledge and a genuine passion for Florida inshore fishing. Whether you're new to the sport or already hooked on chasing coastal species, he creates a welcoming and skill-building atmosphere that helps every guest feel confident on the water. His trips highlight the rich marine life of Tampa Bay and showcase why the area is one of Florida’s most sought-after fisheries. As a trusted provider of Tampa fishing charters, Fishin Magician Inshore is committed to quality, safety, and a smooth, enjoyable day on the bay. Captain Eric uses reliable, well-maintained equipment and shares expert guidance tailored to each angler’s goals. From the first cast to the last, guests can count on a professional and memorable Florida fishing experience designed to highlight the best of Tampa’s inshore waters.

<h2>Fishing Charter with Captain Eric Topole - Rates & Booking</h2>
Captain Eric Topole of Fishin Magician Inshore Charters operates fishing charters out of Ruskin on Friday, May 9th. This inshore fishing charter targets species like gag grouper in the productive Tampa Bay waters. To inquire about rates, group size, and available dates, contact Fishin Magician Inshore Charters directly or book online through their charter service.
Captain Eric brings local expertise and knowledge of Ruskin's inshore structure to help anglers locate and catch grouper and other game fish. All necessary fishing gear is typically included with your charter booking.

<h2>Highlights of Your Inshore Fishing Experience</h2>
Ruskin's location along Tampa Bay provides excellent opportunities to target gag grouper in shallow to moderate depths. The area's structure, including grass flats, channels, and hard bottom, creates ideal habitat for grouper species. Anglers can expect hands-on instruction from an experienced captain who understands how to work the local waters and present lures or live bait effectively.
A successful gag grouper catch represents the quality fishing available in this region. These fights are exciting and rewarding, and each trip offers the chance to connect with one of Florida's most prized inshore species.

<h2>Local Species Insights: Gag Grouper</h2>
Gag grouper are one of the most sought-after inshore game fish in Florida waters, and Ruskin's position in Tampa Bay makes it an excellent location to pursue them. These fish are bottom dwellers that prefer structure - they inhabit rocky areas, artificial reefs, grass flats, and channel ledges where they can ambush prey. Understanding their habitat preference is key to successful fishing.
Gag grouper exhibit strong feeding behavior throughout the year in Florida waters, though their activity patterns shift with seasonal changes in water temperature and baitfish availability. These fish are aggressive when hungry and will strike both live bait and artificial lures. Their powerful jaws and body structure make them strong fighters that test your tackle and technique. When hooked, gag grouper often head straight for cover, requiring anglers to apply steady pressure and maintain control of the fight.
The behavior of gag grouper demonstrates why Tampa Bay and Ruskin waters are so productive - the depth changes, grass flats, and abundant structure provide perfect conditions for these fish to thrive. Successful anglers work areas where grouper naturally congregate, presenting baits or lures near bottom structure where the fish hold during the day. Timing, presentation, and understanding the local water conditions all contribute to consistent success on the water.

Catch gag grouper on a fishing charter in Ruskin, FL with Captain Eric Topole of Fishin Magician Inshore Charters. This Friday in May adventure showcases the exciting inshore fishing opportunities available in Tampa Bay waters, where these popular game fish thrive year-round.

Gag grouper caught while fishing in Ruskin FL waters

<h3>Gag Grouper Overview</h3>The Gag Grouper (Mycteroperca Microlepis) is a member of the Serranidae family within the order Perciformes, representing one of the Atlantic's most sought-after yet cunningly elusive game fish. While some describe this species as appearing somewhat drab compared to its flashier cousins, seasoned anglers know better—the Gag Grouper's mottled grey coloration and powerful build make it a formidable adversary. What truly sets this fish apart is its remarkable biology: all Gag Groupers start life as females, with some transitioning to males as they mature, a phenomenon known as sequential hermaphroditism. This fascinating adaptation, combined with its preference for rocky hideaways and aggressive feeding behavior, makes the Gag Grouper a cornerstone species for coastal fishing communities from Florida to the Carolinas.<h3>Gag Grouper Habitat and Distribution</h3>Gag Groupers thrive in coastal and offshore waters where structure abounds. Young fish prefer staying inshore within shallow seabeds and shoals, using these nursery grounds to grow and develop until sexual maturity arrives around 5 to 6 years of age. Adult Gag Groupers migrate to deeper offshore territories, favoring rocky bottoms, natural reefs, shipwrecks, and dramatic drop-off walls where they can establish hunting grounds and find refuge from larger predators. The species shows a strong affinity for any rocky structure that provides shelter—from stone crab traps to artificial reefs. Throughout their range along the Atlantic coast, you'll find them accompanying other game fish species like Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, Blacktip Sharks, and Spinner Sharks, often congregating where herring schools swarm near the beach during seasonal movements.<h3>Gag Grouper Size and Weight</h3>An average Gag Grouper typically measures around 24 inches in length, making for a respectable catch on most recreational tackle. However, these fish possess impressive growth potential when given time and favorable conditions. Specimens regularly reach 40 to 50 inches, with the maximum recorded length stretching to 57 inches and weighing as much as 50 pounds or more. Some exceptional individuals have been documented at 145 centimeters (57 inches) with weights reaching 36.5 kilograms (approximately 80 pounds). Given their slow growth rate—requiring 5 to 6 years just to reach sexual maturity—these larger specimens represent fish that may be 15 to 30 years old, underscoring the importance of selective harvest and catch-and-release practices to maintain healthy populations.<h3>Gag Grouper Diet and Behavior</h3>Gag Groupers are opportunistic carnivores with a well-developed hunting instinct and a strong preference for crustaceans, particularly crab and shrimp. Younger fish eagerly consume small crustaceans and baitfish as they encounter them in their shallow-water nurseries, while larger adults expand their diet to include a variety of fish species, squid, and octopus. Their feeding behavior is aggressive and decisive—once a Gag Grouper commits to striking prey, it employs a powerful suction feeding mechanism to engulf its meal before retreating to the safety of nearby rocky structures. These fish are most active during periods of reduced light and moderate current when their prey is also most active. They exhibit strong site fidelity, meaning individual fish often establish territories around particular reefs or structures and remain there for extended periods, making repeated visits to the same location an effective strategy for anglers.<h3>Gag Grouper Spawning and Seasonal Activity</h3>Gag Groupers exhibit seasonal reproductive behavior tied to water temperature and photoperiod changes. Spawning typically occurs during the warmer months, with peak activity in late spring through summer when coastal waters reach optimal temperatures. The species' unique sequential hermaphroditism means that as populations age and larger females transition to males, the breeding dynamics shift accordingly. Young Gag Groupers spend their early years (0 to 5-6 years) in shallow nursery habitats before recruiting to deeper offshore populations once they reach sexual maturity. Environmental stressors, particularly red tide events, can heavily suppress recruitment and survival of juveniles, causing population fluctuations that impact fishing success in subsequent years. Seasonal variations in current patterns, water clarity, and baitfish availability all influence Gag Grouper activity levels and catchability throughout the year.<h3>Gag Grouper Techniques for Observation and Capture</h3>Bottom Fishing with Live Bait: The most productive method for targeting Gag Groupers involves positioning your boat over rocky structure, reefs, or shipwrecks in 30 to 80 feet of water. Deploy live mullet or pinfish on a circle hook—Florida regulations require circle hooks for bottom fishing—rigged on 20 to 40-pound line with a standard rod and reel combo. Lower your bait to the bottom or suspend it slightly above structure where Gag Groupers patrol. When you feel the strike, set the hook firmly and maintain constant pressure; these fish will immediately attempt to dive back into rocky crevices. Keep your rod low and maintain a locked reel to prevent them from reaching the safety of their rocky fortresses. The key is assertiveness—hesitation allows them to wrap your line or bury themselves in structure.Cut Bait and Alternative Presentations: When live bait is unavailable or impractical, cut bait produces excellent results. Squid, octopus, crab pieces, and mackerel chunks all attract hungry Gag Groupers. Present these offerings on the same circle-hook rigs, allowing them to sink to the bottom where groupers actively hunt. This method works especially well around stone crab traps and artificial reef structures where natural prey concentration is highest. Cigar Minnows, Pilchards, and Grunts also attract strikes when presented either live or as chum.Localized Tip—Florida Gulf Coast: Around the Florida Gulf Coast, particularly near offshore structures and natural reefs from the Panhandle through Southwest Florida, Gag Grouper fishing peaks during spring and fall months. Fish early morning hours on incoming or slack tides, as these conditions concentrate baitfish and increase predator feeding activity. The Gag Grouper's aggressive nature means it often strikes hard and decisively; maintain unwavering pressure immediately upon hookset to prevent it from reaching shelter.<h3>Gag Grouper Culinary and Utilization Notes</h3>Gag Grouper is considered excellent table fare, prized for its firm, white flesh and mild, delicate flavor. The meat holds together well during cooking and suits virtually any preparation method—grilling, baking, pan-searing, or blackening all highlight its culinary appeal. A 40-pound Gag Grouper yields substantial fillets perfect for family meals or entertaining. Nutritionally, the flesh is lean and high in protein while offering beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. From a sustainability perspective, recreational anglers should practice selective harvest, retaining fish within legal size ranges while releasing oversized specimens and females (when sex can be visually determined) to maintain breeding stock and population stability. Check local regulations, as many regions implement slot limits, seasonal closures, or size restrictions specifically designed to protect Gag Grouper populations from overfishing.<h3>Gag Grouper Frequently Asked Questions</h3>Q: What is the best bait for catching Gag Grouper?A: Live mullet and pinfish are the top choices, but Gag Groupers also respond exceptionally well to cut squid, octopus, live crabs, and mackerel. The key is using enough bait to create scent dispersal in the water column. Circle hooks are mandatory in many regions and improve hookup rates significantly.Q: Where can I find Gag Grouper near Florida?A: Gag Groupers are abundant throughout Florida's offshore and nearshore zones, particularly around natural reefs, shipwrecks, rocky outcrops, and artificial structures. The Gulf Coast from the Panhandle through Southwest Florida, as well as the Atlantic side off the central and southern coast, all hold healthy populations. Check with local charter services for current hotspots and seasonal patterns.Q: Is Gag Grouper good to eat?A: Absolutely. Gag Grouper ranks among the finest eating fish available to anglers, with tender, mild white flesh that works beautifully in any recipe. The firm texture holds up to various cooking methods, making it versatile for both simple preparations and elaborate dishes.Q: When is the best time to catch Gag Grouper?A: Spring through early fall offers peak fishing opportunities, with summer months typically producing the most consistent action. Fish early morning hours and during slack or incoming tides when baitfish and grouper feeding activity peak. Avoid red tide periods, as these events depress feeding behavior and water conditions.Q: What equipment do I need to fish for Gag Grouper?A: A standard medium to medium-heavy rod with 20 to 40-pound monofilament or braided line works well. Circle hooks are required in many regions. Use a sinker heavy enough to maintain bottom contact in current, and ensure your reel's drag is properly set to absorb the powerful runs these fish produce.Q: Why are Gag Groupers harder to catch than other grouper species?A: Gag Groupers possess an almost supernatural ability to wedge themselves into rock crevices and structure immediately upon hookset. Their instinct is to retreat to safety rather than power-run like many game fish. Success requires immediate, aggressive rod pressure and a willingness to muscle the fish away from cover—a technique that demands strength, technique, and the right equipment.

<h2>Gag Grouper (Mycteroperca Microlepis) Fish Description</h2>The Gag Grouper appears to be one of the less aesthetically appealing fish among the Groupers. Some even describe the Gag Grouper as “drab” in appearance. Its fins are mostly composed are rays and have a laterally-compressed oblong body. However, it does have a similarity to the Black Grouper: it’s the box-shaped black spots on the back. Their dorsal fins have 11 spines mixed with 16-18 rays while their anal fins have 3 spins with a mix of 10-12 rays.Female Gag Groupers are normally pale or medium grey in color. Their bodies have a more marbled appearance due to the wavy patterns covering their bodies. But the best way to tell a female and a male apart is through the dorsal fin. Unlike female Gag Groupers, a male Gag Grouper’s dorsal fin is reticulated. Color-wise however, they are also darker than female Gag Groupers. Their bellies and breast are usually dark gray, almost black. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Gag Grouper Diet and Size</h2>Depending on their size, a Gag Grouper’s diet changes. Though, Gag Groupers are seen to prefer a variety of crustaceans such as crab and shrimp. They do like some fish and sometimes, an occasional squid.An average Gag Grouper is 20 inches (50 cm) long. However, some have reported seeing a Gag Grouper reach 145 cm (57 inches) in length and weigh 36.5 kg (80 lbs).&nbsp;<h2>Interesting Facts about the Gag Grouper</h2><ul><li>Gag Groupers, when they mature, change sex from female to male.<ul><li>When they’re young, all Gag Groupers start out as females.</li><li>However, Gag Groupers are more commonly female.</li></ul></li><li>Gag Groupers grow slowly. It usually takes them5-6 years to sexually mature.</li><li>Juvenile Gag Groupers have a different habitat preference to adult Gag Groupers.</li><li>Its scientific name microlepis means small scales in Latin.</li><li>Gag Groupers can live up to 30 years.</li><li>Red Tide can heavily affect Gag Grouper populations.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h2>Gag Grouper – Fishing Techniques: How to Fish for a Gag Grouper</h2>The first thing to look for is a place that can serve as shelter. Gag Groupers like hiding so, they would make use of any structure that can serve as shelter. Young Gag Groupers prefer staying inshore and in shoals until they mature. Older Gag Groupers loiter around offshore reefs and shipwrecks. Usually, when fishing for Gag Groupers, they are usually accompanied by Kingfish and Spanish Mackerel. At times, they’re also accompanied by Blacktip and Spinner Sharks. They’re found chasing herrings that swarm near the beach.Others advise looking for stone crab traps. Since Gag Groupers love crab, they’ll most likely go to a place where crabs hide.When it comes to bait choice, Gag Groupers love live bait. They prefer mullet and pinfish. However, some anglers have reported having success with also cut bait like octopus, squid, and crabs. Other options include using Pilchards, Cigar Minnows, and Grunts.&nbsp;For your equipment, it depends on where you are. In Florida, you’re required to use a circle hook when going bottom fishing. But some say that the standard equipment will do. Standard rod with a 40-pound line works but people have done well even with a 20-30 one. Make sure that your bait is hooked on well but with the barb still sticking out.&nbsp;When going for the Gag Grouper, be prepared to wrestle with it. Once they snag your bait, they’ll want nothing but to drag their food back to the depths where they came from. They’ll try to run against the rocks to make sure they don’t get fished out. To avoid that, make sure the reel’s locked and don’t let it freewheel otherwise it’ll give them a chance to dive into a hole. To make it easier, some people advise keeping your rod low so it’s easier to just yank them out of the water.&nbsp;<h2>Gag Grouper Habitat and Distribution</h2>Gag Groupers like staying in coastal waters with a lot of rocky structures. Some of their preferred rocky structures include rocky bottoms and reefs. They also like loitering near drop-off walls in the deep waters. But the younger Gag Groupers like staying more in the seabed.

Gag Grouper Success - Ruskin Inshore Fishing

Experience inshore fishing for gag grouper in Ruskin, FL with Captain Eric Topole. Book your fishing charter online today.

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Gag Grouper Fishing in Ruskin - What to Expect

Gag Grouper Caught in Ruskin FL Waters

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Fishin Magician Inshore The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Tampa Bay

With more than 40 years of experience on the water, Captain Eric Topole brings a lifetime of fishing knowledge to every trip. He’s been fishing the west coast of Florida since 1979, a journey that began alongside his grandfather and quickly became a lifelong passion. Captain Eric’s deep-rooted love for the sport isn’t just evident in the way he talks about fishing—it’s something guests can feel the moment they step on the boat. He’s not just guiding you to the fish; he’s sharing a way of life built on tradition, patience, and respect for the water. Captain Eric is known for his methodical, thoughtful approach to fishing. He’s spent decades learning how to read the bay—tracking tides, watching currents, and understanding how fish move and feed. His ability to break down the why behind each catch turns every trip into a learning experience. Whether you're chasing redfish, snook, or sea trout, he’s always one step ahead of the bite, making each day on the water both productive and educational. What sets Captain Eric apart is his genuine connection with the local ecosystem and the people he fishes with. Guests of all ages appreciate his calm, friendly presence and clear passion for teaching others. Whether it’s your first cast or your hundredth, Eric creates an atmosphere that feels welcoming, informative, and relaxed. You’re not just along for the ride—you’re learning from someone who’s spent a lifetime mastering these waters. About the BoatCaptain Eric runs his trips aboard a 2020 Blazer Bay center console, a sleek and stable vessel designed for serious inshore fishing. Powered by a reliable 300HP Suzuki engine, this boat reaches speeds up to 40 knots, ensuring quick access to the best fishing grounds around Tampa Bay. It comfortably fits up to six guests, with wide casting decks, modern electronics, and plenty of storage. Whether you're sight-fishing the flats or working deeper channels, this boat is built for comfort, performance, and a smooth ride all day long.

Meet Captain Eric Topole and Fishin Magician Inshore

Experience world-class inshore fishing in Tampa Bay. Target grouper, snapper, and more on this 4-hour adventure. Reserve your spot today!

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Experience world-class backcountry fishing in Tampa Bay. Book your half-day charter for grouper, snapper, and more now!

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Deep Sea Drift

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Common Questions: How much does a Tampa Bay fishing charter with Fishin Magician Inshore cost?Pricing varies based on the length and type of trip, but most inshore charters range from $400 to $700 for 2–4 anglers. Half-day and full-day trips are available, and we also offer custom packages. Contact us for up-to-date rates and availability. What types of fishing trips do you offer in Tampa Bay?Fishin Magician Inshore specializes in inshore and nearshore fishing charters targeting redfish, snook, speckled trout, sheepshead, and more. We offer half-day, ¾-day, and full-day trips designed for anglers of all skill levels—from families and first-timers to serious sport fishers. What’s included in a Fishin Magician Inshore charter?All fishing gear, tackle, licenses, bait, and bottled water are included in every trip. Your captain also provides expert guidance, a cooler with ice, and fish cleaning at the end of the day so you can take your catch home ready to cook. Do I need a fishing license to fish in Tampa Bay?Nope! All guests are covered under our charter fishing license, so you don’t need to purchase anything extra. Just show up ready to fish and we’ll take care of the rest. What should I bring on my Tampa Bay fishing trip?We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, snacks, and any personal drinks or food you’d like. Wear light, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Don’t forget your phone or camera to snap photos of your catch! What is the best time of year to fish in Tampa Bay?Tampa Bay offers excellent fishing year-round, but peak inshore action typically happens from March through October. Redfish and snook are especially active in warmer months, while cooler weather brings in great sheepshead and trout bites. How many people can join a charter trip?Our inshore fishing trips are best suited for groups of up to 4 anglers. This ensures a comfortable experience with plenty of room on the boat and personalized attention from the captain. Is Fishin Magician Inshore family-friendly?Absolutely! We welcome families and kids of all ages. Our captain is patient, safety-conscious, and happy to help younger anglers learn the ropes and have fun catching fish. Can I keep the fish I catch?Yes, you’re welcome to keep any legal-size fish within Florida’s regulations. Your captain will help you identify what's in season and will clean and bag your catch at the end of the trip. Where do Tampa Bay fishing charters depart from?We launch from convenient dock locations around the Tampa Bay area, depending on the season and where the fish are biting. You'll receive detailed directions and a meeting point when you book your trip.

Gag Grouper Caught in Ruskin FL Waters

Gag Grouper Fishing in Ruskin - What to Expect

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