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Caught a Redfish Inshore Fishing in Tampa Bay
Redfish Inshore Fishing in Tampa Bay
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Redfish are copper-colored gamefish that thrive in Tampa Bay's shallow inshore waters. They feed actively around grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines. - Average 14 inches in Tampa Bay with larger specimens available. - Known for powerful runs and hard fighting ability. - Prefer depths of 2-8 feet around structure-rich areas.
Fishing Charter by Captain Eric Topole in December
Meet your Captain Eric Topole
- Reel in Tampa Bay's Best Fishing Adventures!
Summary
Captain Eric Topole of Fishin Magician Inshore Charters offers premier redfish fishing charters in Tampa Bay's productive inshore waters. These shallow-water specialists provide consistent action year-round, with redfish averaging 14 inches and larger trophy fish available during cooler months. Our guided fishing trips include all tackle, bait, and local expertise to help you land these hard-fighting copper-colored gamefish. Tampa Bay's grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines create ideal redfish habitat, making this one of Florida's top inshore fishing destinations for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Fishing Charter with Captain Eric Topole – Rates & Booking
Captain Eric Topole of Fishin Magician Inshore Charters brings years of local experience guiding anglers through Tampa Bay's premier redfish waters. Our half-day and full-day charters include all fishing gear, live bait, and ice for your catch. We target redfish along grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove edges where these copper-colored fighters feed actively. Trips accommodate up to 4 anglers with competitive rates starting at $400 for half-day excursions. Book online or call for current availability and seasonal pricing.
Highlights of Tampa Bay Redfish Fishing
Tampa Bay's extensive shallow-water system creates perfect redfish habitat with miles of grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines. These structure-rich areas hold baitfish that attract feeding redfish throughout the year. Our charters focus on sight fishing and bottom fishing techniques, using live shrimp, cut bait, and artificial lures depending on conditions. The bay's protected waters offer comfortable fishing even when offshore conditions are rough, making it ideal for families and anglers of all skill levels.
Redfish in Tampa Bay average 14 inches with larger slot fish and oversized bulls available during cooler months. These hard-fighting fish provide excellent table fare when kept within regulations, though many anglers practice catch and release to preserve the fishery. Captain Eric knows the seasonal patterns and tide movements that concentrate redfish in specific areas, maximizing your chances for consistent action.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Tampa Bay's shallow, structure-rich environment where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. These copper-colored gamefish are known for their distinctive black spot near the tail and their powerful runs when hooked. They prefer water depths of 2-8 feet around oyster bars, grass flats, and mangrove edges where prey is abundant. During warmer months, redfish move to deeper grass flats and channel edges, while cooler weather brings them into very shallow water where sight fishing becomes productive. Their feeding activity peaks during moving tides, especially around dawn and dusk when baitfish are most active.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our fishing charters depart from convenient Ruskin area boat ramps with easy parking and restroom facilities. All trips include quality spinning and baitcasting tackle, live and cut bait, ice, and fish cleaning services. We provide a cooler for drinks and snacks, though you're welcome to bring your own refreshments. Departure times vary with tides and seasons, typically starting between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM for optimal fishing conditions. Captain Eric maintains all required Coast Guard safety equipment and holds a valid Florida fishing license covering all guests. Comfortable seating and a T-top provide shade during sunny conditions, ensuring an enjoyable day on the water for anglers of all ages.
