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 offers guided redfish trips targeting Tampa Bay's shallow water flats and grass beds. These half-day and full-day charters include all tackle, bait, and local expertise to put you on fish. Licensed and experienced, Captain Eric knows the seasonal movements and feeding patterns that make Tampa Bay one of Florida's premier redfish destinations. Book online or call for current rates and availability.<h2>Highlights of Redfish Fishing in Tampa Bay</h2>Tampa Bay's extensive shallow flats create ideal redfish habitat with grass beds, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines. These copper-colored fighters average 18-27 inches and provide exciting sight fishing opportunities in clear, shallow water. The bay's year-round fishery means consistent action, with spring and fall offering peak feeding activity. Captain Eric's local knowledge of tide timing and structure location maximizes your chances for multiple hookups.<h2>Local Species Insights: Redfish</h2>Redfish thrive in Tampa Bay's shallow, grass-covered flats where they hunt for crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. These aggressive feeders are easily spotted by their distinctive copper coloration and black tail spots. During incoming tides, they push onto the flats to feed, creating excellent sight fishing opportunities. The bay's healthy population includes both slot-size fish and oversized bulls, with the 19-inch range representing prime eating size. Live shrimp, cut bait, and artificial lures all produce consistent results when presented near structure.<h2>Plan Your Fishing Charter Day</h2>Your Tampa Bay redfish charter includes a shallow-draft boat designed for navigating the bay's flats and grass beds. All tackle, bait, and safety equipment are provided, with trips accommodating up to four anglers. Early morning departures take advantage of optimal tide timing and cooler temperatures. Captain Eric provides instruction for all skill levels, from first-time anglers to experienced sight fishers looking to improve their technique.

Captain Eric Topole of Fishin Magician Inshore Charters guides anglers through Tampa Bay's productive redfish waters. This inshore fishing charter targets the shallow flats and grass beds where redfish feed year-round. With local knowledge of tides, structure, and seasonal patterns, Captain Eric positions you for consistent action on these copper-colored fighters. All tackle and bait included—just bring your fishing license and enthusiasm for one of Florida's most popular gamefish.

Redfish caught in Tampa Bay, FL with Captain Eric Topole's charter.

Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as red drum, belong to the family Sciaenidae and order Perciformes. These distinctive copper-colored gamefish are easily recognized by their bronze to reddish coloration and characteristic black spots near the tail. In Tampa Bay waters, redfish provide year-round fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.<h3>Redfish Overview</h3>Redfish are among Florida's most popular inshore gamefish, prized for their aggressive strikes and strong fighting ability. They inhabit shallow coastal waters, grass flats, and oyster bars where they hunt for crabs, shrimp, and small fish. Tampa Bay's extensive shallow water habitat makes it an ideal redfish fishery with healthy populations of both slot-size fish and oversized bulls.<h3>Redfish Habitat and Distribution</h3>These adaptable fish thrive in Tampa Bay's diverse shallow water environments including grass beds, oyster bars, mangrove shorelines, and sandy flats. They prefer water depths from 1-8 feet where they can easily access their preferred prey. The bay's year-round warm temperatures and abundant food sources support a robust redfish population that attracts anglers from across the Southeast.<h3>Redfish Size and Weight</h3>Tampa Bay redfish typically range from 18-27 inches in the slot size, weighing 3-8 pounds. These fish grow rapidly in the nutrient-rich bay waters, with the 19-inch range representing prime eating size. Larger bull redfish over 27 inches are also present and provide trophy fishing opportunities for catch-and-release anglers.<h3>Redfish Diet and Behavior</h3>Redfish are opportunistic feeders that hunt crabs, shrimp, mullet, and pinfish in shallow water. They feed most actively during moving tides, particularly incoming water that pushes baitfish onto the flats. These fish often feed in schools and can be spotted by their distinctive tailing behavior when rooting for crabs in shallow grass beds.<h3>Redfish Spawning Season</h3>Redfish spawn in nearshore waters during late summer and fall when water temperatures range from 70-80 degrees. During this period, large schools of adult fish gather in deeper water adjacent to the flats. Post-spawn fish return to shallow feeding areas and provide excellent fishing opportunities through winter and spring months.<h3>Redfish Fishing Techniques</h3>Live shrimp fished under popping corks produce consistent results, especially around grass beds and oyster bars. Artificial lures like gold spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs work well for sight fishing. Cut bait including mullet and pinfish attracts larger fish when fished near structure. During Tampa Bay's cooler months, redfish concentrate in deeper grass beds and respond well to slow-moving presentations.<h3>Redfish Is It Good to Eat?</h3>Slot-size redfish provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. The flesh is lean and versatile, suitable for grilling, blackening, or baking. Redfish are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury compared to larger offshore species. Many anglers prefer the 18-23 inch range for optimal eating quality.<h3>Redfish Frequently Asked Questions</h3>Q: What is the best bait for redfish?A: Live shrimp is the most productive bait, especially when fished under a popping cork near grass beds and oyster bars. Cut mullet and pinfish also work well for larger fish.Q: Where can I find redfish near Tampa Bay?A: Focus on shallow grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines in 1-6 feet of water. Popular areas include the flats around Weedon Island and the grass beds near Ruskin.Q: Is redfish good to eat?A: Yes, slot-size redfish (18-27 inches) provide excellent eating with firm, white meat and mild flavor. They're high in protein and omega-3s while being low in mercury.Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?A: Redfish bite year-round in Tampa Bay, with peak activity during moving tides. Early morning and late afternoon often produce the best results, especially during cooler months.

Tampa Bay Redfish Fishing Charter Photos

Book a redfish fishing charter in Tampa Bay with Captain Eric Topole. All gear provided—view rates and book your adventure today!

Tampa Bay Redfish Charter – With Captain Eric Topole – Rusk…

Book Your Tampa Bay Redfish Adventure

Caught a 19inch Redfish Inshore in Tampa Bay

Our Gallery

Gift a fishing charter! Give the gift of fishing with Fishin Magician Inshore and Captain Eric Topole for an unforgettable experience in Tampa Bay!

Purchase A Fishin Magician Inshore Gift Card today!

Easily change trip dates, times, or trip type by contacting Fishin Magician Inshore from your receipt or right from our website! We look forward to fishing with you!

Purchase an E-Gift card and your loved one will apply that unique confirmation code to the booking at checkout from fishinmagicianfl.com

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

Tampa Catch

Top-Rated Tampa Bay 4-Hour Fishing Charters

Bay Bites

Expert-Guided Tampa Bay Fishing Charters

Offshore Haul

Tampa's Best 8-Hour Offshore Fishing Adventure

Deep Sea Drift

Florida's Premier 8-Hour Offshore Fishing Charter

Inshore Magic

World-Class 6-Hour Tampa Fishing Charters

Things To Do

Things To Do In Tampa Bay 

Complementary catch cleaning &amp; filleting

Tampa Bay Fishing Charters

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.

Caught a 19inch Redfish Inshore in Tampa Bay

Redfish Fishing Charter in Tampa Bay

Fishing Charter by Captain Eric Topole in December

Meet your Captain Eric Topole

Summary

Fishing Charter with Captain Eric Topole – Rates & Booking

Highlights of Redfish Fishing in Tampa Bay

Local Species Insights: Redfish

Plan Your Fishing Charter Day

Fishing in Tampa Bay with Fishin Magician Inshore Charters

Fishin Magician Inshore Charters Available Trips

Navigate