%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F730%2Fimages%2Ffishing_magician.png&w=1200&q=100)
Tampa's Best 8-Hour Offshore Fishing Adventure
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Tampa Bay
- $550 - $1,200 price range
- Updated Date: September 18, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F3e96378d-eafd-4555-bdb3-7991ee6edb9f%2Fratecard%2Frc4.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Offshore Catch of the Day
Near shore 8 hour off the coast of Anna Maria Island. Mangrove snapper and hogfish.
Tampa Bay fishing moments
Reels of the day in Tampa Bay, FL
Puffer fish beauty in Tampa Bay, FL
Grouper Hooked up in Tampa Bay today!
Big catch, calm bay, perfect day
Tampa Bay trout on the line
Fishing Tampa’s inshore action
Bay mornings, bent rods
Groupers are biting in the bay!
Near shore 8 hour off the coast of Anna Maria Island. Mangrove snapper and hogfish.
Tampa Bay fishing moments
Reels of the day in Tampa Bay, FL
Puffer fish beauty in Tampa Bay, FL
Grouper Hooked up in Tampa Bay today!
Big catch, calm bay, perfect day
Tampa Bay trout on the line
Fishing Tampa’s inshore action
Bay mornings, bent rods
Groupers are biting in the bay!
Near shore 8 hour off the coast of Anna Maria Island. Mangrove snapper and hogfish.
Tampa Bay fishing moments
Reels of the day in Tampa Bay, FL
Puffer fish beauty in Tampa Bay, FL
Tampa Bay's Full-Day Offshore Fishing Adventure
Get ready for an action-packed day on the water with Fishin Magician Inshore Charters! Our full-day morning trip takes you up to 9 miles offshore in the rich waters of Tampa Bay. You'll be targeting some of Florida's most sought-after gamefish, including grouper, snapper, and more. With 8 full hours on the water, you'll have plenty of time to work different spots and maximize your chances of landing that trophy catch. This trip is perfect for serious anglers looking to make the most of their time on the Gulf.
What to Expect on the Water
As soon as we leave the dock, you'll feel the excitement building. We'll cruise out to some of Tampa Bay's most productive offshore spots, where the big boys play. This isn't your average inshore trip – we're talking about battling hard-fighting grouper and snapper in their natural habitat. With a maximum of 2 guests, you'll get plenty of one-on-one attention from your captain. He'll be right there to help you refine your technique, offer local insights, and make sure you're in the best position to land fish all day long. As the tides change throughout the day, we'll adjust our strategy to keep the action hot.
Techniques and Gear
On this offshore adventure, we'll be using a mix of bottom fishing and trolling techniques to target different species. For bottom fishing, we'll drop lines with live bait or jigs to entice grouper and snapper hanging around structure. When targeting king mackerel or other pelagics, we might switch to trolling with rigged ballyhoo or spoons. The captain will provide all the necessary gear, including top-quality rods and reels suited for offshore work. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques – your guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start hauling in fish like a pro.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
"Eric isn't called the fishin magician for nothing! Eric did a great job and put us on the fish every spot we went to. If you are wanting to go out and have a great time and catch fish then Captain Eric is your man. Highly recommend and will definitely be back on the water very soon with the best captain in the Bay Area." - Gary
"Have been twice. Never disappoints. All around great experience with a great guy. Would highly recommend . Still eating the fish we caught the other week." - Mark
Species You'll Want to Hook
Gag Grouper: These bruisers are a favorite target for Tampa Bay anglers. Gags love to hang around rocky bottom and reefs, often in depths of 60 to 200 feet. They're known for their powerful first run – when a big gag hits, hold on tight! The fight to get them off the bottom is intense, making them a true test of an angler's skill. Gags are most active in cooler months, with peak season typically running from late fall through early spring.
Grey Snapper: Also known as mangrove snapper, these crafty fish are abundant in Tampa Bay. They're notorious for their light bite and ability to steal bait, so staying alert is key. Grey snapper tend to school up around structure and can be caught year-round, though the bite often heats up in summer. While they might not grow as large as some other targets, their tasty flesh makes them a prized catch for the dinner table.
King Mackerel: When kings are running, the action can be non-stop. These speedsters are known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. We typically target them by trolling, and when a king skyrockets on your bait, it's a sight you won't soon forget. The best king mackerel fishing usually happens in spring and fall as they migrate through the area. Landing a big "smoker" king is always a highlight of any offshore trip.
Broomtail Grouper: Less common than their gag cousins, broomtails are a special catch in Tampa Bay waters. They tend to prefer even deeper water, often found in depths over 200 feet. Broomtails can grow to impressive sizes, with fish over 20 pounds not uncommon. Their fight is similar to other grouper species – expect a powerful initial run followed by a stubborn battle to the surface. Catching a broomtail is often a bucket-list item for serious grouper anglers.
Bull Shark: While not a primary target, encountering a bull shark is always an adrenaline-pumping experience. These powerful predators can reach lengths of over 8 feet and are known for their aggressive nature. Bull sharks are unique in their ability to tolerate both salt and freshwater, making them common in the coastal waters around Tampa Bay. If you hook into one, be prepared for a lengthy battle – bull sharks are renowned for their stamina and fighting spirit. While we practice catch and release with sharks, the thrill of bringing one boatside is unforgettable.
Top Catches This Season
Tampa Bay's offshore waters have been on fire lately! Anglers have been reporting excellent catches of gag grouper, with several fish in the 20-30 pound range coming to the boat. The grey snapper bite has been consistent, with many limits being filled on half-day trips. King mackerel have been making sporadic appearances, with some trophy-sized fish in the mix. As we move into the cooler months, expect the grouper action to really heat up. This is prime time to target those big gags before the season closes. Don't be surprised if you tangle with a monster bull shark while bottom fishing – we've seen some real bruisers lately!
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're itching for some serious offshore action in Tampa Bay, this full-day trip is calling your name. With 8 hours on the water, you'll have plenty of time to work different spots and target a variety of species. Whether you're dreaming of battling a big grouper, filling the cooler with tasty snapper, or experiencing the thrill of a smoker king, this trip offers it all. Captain Eric knows these waters like the back of his hand and is dedicated to putting you on the fish. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give Fishin Magician Inshore Charters a call today and get ready for an offshore adventure you won't forget. The big ones are waiting – are you ready to reel them in?
Customer Reviews
Fishin Magician Eric
Gary Kissee
August 11, 2024
Twice Hooked Joy
Have been twice. Never disappoints. All around great experience with a great guy. Would highly recommend . Still eating the fish we caught the other week.
Mark Elia
July 7, 2022
Learn more about the species
Broomtail Grouper
Broomtail Groupers are rare catches around here, but man, are they worth the effort. These bruisers can hit 100 pounds, though most we see are in the 30-60 pound range. Look for them in deep water, usually 150 feet or more, around rocky bottoms and reefs. They're most active in warmer months. Broomtails are known for their powerful first run - they'll try to break you off in the rocks, so you need heavy tackle and quick reflexes. The meat is delicious, with a soft texture that's great for grilling. One trick I've learned: use big live baits like pinfish or blue runners. Drop 'em down and hold on tight. When you feel that thump, it's game on. These fish are a true test of an angler's skills, and landing a big one is something you'll never forget.
Bull Shark
Bull sharks are the tough guys of Tampa Bay. These bruisers can hit 8-12 feet long and pack 200-300 pounds of pure muscle. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, and they even swim up rivers. Summer's prime time, when they cruise into the bay. Bulls are aggressive and put up one heck of a fight - it's all about power with these guys. We catch and release 'em for the thrill and conservation. Use heavy tackle and wire leaders - their teeth are no joke. Fresh cut bait works best, especially oily fish like mullet or mackerel. Here's a local tip: look for them around river mouths on incoming tides. They follow the bait and cooler water. When you hook one, hold on tight and enjoy the ride. Just remember, respect these apex predators and handle them carefully.
Gag Grouper
Gag Groupers are tough customers, usually weighing 20-30 pounds but can hit 80. You'll find them hanging around rocky bottoms and reefs offshore. These fish love structure, so we target shipwrecks and ledges. They're most active in cooler months, from fall through spring. Gags put up a hell of a fight - they'll try to drag you into the rocks, so you gotta be quick on the reel. The meat is mild and flaky, making them popular for the dinner table. One tip: use a stout rod and heavy line. When you feel that thump, reel fast and pull hard to get 'em away from cover. It's a real rush when you haul up a big gag from 100 feet down. Just remember, these fish grow slow, so we practice catch and release with the big ones to keep the population healthy.
Grey Snapper
Grey Snappers, also called mangrove snappers, are scrappy little fighters. Most run 1-3 pounds inshore, but offshore you can find some bruisers up to 10 pounds or more. They love structure - docks, mangroves, reefs - anywhere they can ambush prey. These guys are here year-round but really turn on in summer. Sneaky and smart, they're a fun challenge to catch. Use light tackle and small hooks with live shrimp or cut bait. Grey snappers make excellent eating - white, flaky meat that's great on the grill. One local trick: fish for them at night around lighted docks. They come in to feed and are less wary in the dark. Be patient and quiet - these fish spook easy. When you see that red flash in the water, you know you're in for some action.
King Mackerel
Kings are speed demons - they'll smoke your reel like nothing else out here. We find them from spring through fall, usually in 30-150 feet of water. They average 15-30 pounds but can top 50. Kings love to chase bait schools, so look for diving birds. These fish put on an acrobatic show when hooked, with blistering runs and jumps. The fight alone makes them a favorite, but they're also good eating if prepared right. Trolling with live bait or spoons works well. Here's a tip: use wire leaders. Kings have razor-sharp teeth that'll slice through mono in a heartbeat. When you hook one, hold on tight and enjoy the ride. Just watch those teeth when you bring 'em in the boat - they're not called "smoker kings" for nothing!
About the Blazer Bay (Center console)
%2F%2Fusers%2F3e96378d-eafd-4555-bdb3-7991ee6edb9f%2Fvehicle_picture%2F105990721_3269667223055315_7303035746245764810_n1.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
Eric isn’t called the fishin magician for nothing! Eric did a great job and put us on the fish every spot we went to. If you are wanting to go out and have a great time and catch fish then Captain Eric is your man. Highly recommend and will definitely be back on the water very soon with the best captain in the Bay Area.